Initial work requires one-lane traffic with automated signals
PADUCAH, Ky. (May 24, 2024) – A work zone along U.S. 60 at the Crittenden County High and Middle School entrance in Marion is expected to ramp up starting on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.
The work zone will include lane restrictions with alternating flow controlled by automated signals on U.S. 60 near the 8.6mm between Country Club Drive and Yandell Street at the west edge of Marion.
Multiple automated signals will be required to maintain traffic into and out of the schools and the Crittenden County Hospital, which will also benefit from the new turn lane. Due to the potential for delays, motorists should consider an alternate route. The project includes additional work along U.S. 60 West of Marion to the KY 297 intersection.
The center turn lane will serve two school entrances to the Crittenden County Middle School and High School complex, as well as two entrances to the Crittenden County Hospital. The turn lane will extend west of the school entrances to connect with Country Club Drive, where buses turn to access the elementary school about a mile away.
In 2021, Gov. Beshear announced an investment of $24.5 million to enhance highway safety near schools and protect families by funding more than 60 highway safety projects across 43 counties. The safety projects range from new turn lanes and crosswalks to improved pavement markings and signage. To date, 38 projects have been completed, with another 13 under contract for construction.
While the U.S. 60 project will improve access to the school complex and hospital, it will also reduce congestion for motorists traveling to and from work. Approximately 4,000 vehicles travel through the project area in an average day.
The project includes replacement of an aging culvert, as well as replacement of several smaller culverts and other enhancements with paving along more than three miles of U.S. 60 immediately west of the turn lane project. Some closures of U.S. 60 may be required for various phases of the work through the summer.
KYTC District 1 and the contractor will provide frequent updates on the traffic flow plan as the work progresses.
Jim Smith Contracting is the prime contractor on the nearly $1.9 million project. The target completion date is August 10, 2024.
