A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet begins work on the Western Kentucky Parkway overpass at Beaver Dam exit 75, at Hwy 231, beginning Monday.
The $4.6 million project to replace the overpass will include significant work zone traffic shifts. It will also include restrictions for traffic on Hwy 231 and a traffic shift for westbound motorist on the parkway, according to cabinet spokesman Chris Jessie.
The work zone will require all westbound parkway traffic to take the exit ramp to Hwy 231. Motorists who wish to continue westbound on the parkway will then re-enter the parkway using the exit 75 entry ramp. A temporary traffic signal will control traffic flow on the ramps and along Hwy 231.
Jessie said work will initially include overnight closures of Hwy 231 at the exit 75 interchange. These overnight closures will be in effect from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for three nights to allow for the demolition of the existing overpass. There will be no marked detours during these closures.
Message boards have been placed near the work zone to alert motorists about the project. Eastbound traffic on the WK Parkway and the eastbound Hwy 231 entry and exit ramps will function normally, according to Jessie.
The initial round of work will replace the superstructure and deck of the parkway’s westbound overpass. The contractor will use the existing support structure. Replacement of the main bridge structure will allow improved clearance for Hwy 231.
This rehab work is required to be completed by December 15. The contractor will then return to the work zone in spring 2020 for similar rehabilitation work on the eastbound overpass.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com or 270-259-6000
