The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is preparing to replace the bridge spanning the Western Kentucky Parkway in Clarkson.
“Preparations for demolition of the Hwy 224 (Millerstown Road) bridge over Western Kentucky Parkway are underway. Replacement of the bridge is part of an asphalt rehabilitation project along the parkway between the 111- and 116-mile markers,” cabinet spokesman Chris Jessie said.
Shoulder work and base failure repairs on the parkway have been in progress over the past couple of weeks with lane reductions in both directions along the stretch. As replacement of the bridge takes place, several traffic changes are occurring in the interchange vicinity:
- One lane of the bridge will remain open, requiring the use of temporary signals to direct alternating one-way traffic. A barrier wall is set along the bridge deck to isolate the active lane during demolition.
- The eastbound off-ramp is closed. The eastbound on-ramp and westbound ramps remain open.
- Westbound parkway exiting traffic must turn right. Traffic is not allowed to turn left and go across the bridge.
Cabinet officials said traffic engineers are trying to determine if it is feasible to open the eastbound off-ramp in upcoming phases of the project with a right turn only, but complications such as limited u-turn/turnaround opportunities may justify longer closure.
Traffic on the WK Parkway will be rerouted at night during bridge demolition during the next week, Jessie said. Flaggers will direct traffic utilizing on/off ramps around demolition operations. Work schedules may be affected by unfavorable weather conditions.
Prolonged ramp closures at the interchange were not originally part of the traffic plan, according to the KYTC. When bridge construction preparations began, it became evident adjustments would be needed and last-minute decisions were made by engineers from the department, along with the contractor, to modify traffic control during construction.
Discussions, according to the KYTC, continue with regard to traffic control throughout various phases of the project and will be announced on a more timely basis.
The entire parkway rehabilitation project is scheduled for completion by November 15 of this year.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
