"Ohio River Bridges construction work leads to route changes
Posted: Jan 20, 2014 10:40 AM EST Updated: Jan 20, 2014 10:40 AM EST
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Follow the WDRB Newsroom, Reporters and Anchors. LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) - As walkers, runners, and cyclists return to downtown Louisville streets for races and events this year, some could notice route changes that have been made in the interest of safety during construction for the Ohio River Bridges Project. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Walsh Construction Company have been working with Louisville Metro Government and event organizers to avoid streets that are part of the construction zone to ensure the continued success of downtown events. Waterfront Park Events, walks, and runs will continue in Waterfront Park. Walsh officials will maintain pedestrian access along River Road between the east and west sides of Waterfront Park at I-65 through the duration of the project. ‘Waterfront Park staff appreciates the efforts of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Walsh Construction to ensure access from one end of the park to the other,’ said David Karem, president of Waterfront Development Corporation. ‘The park continues to be welcoming to events.’ Construction activities are expected to have limited impact on River Rd. throughout this year; though activity is expected to increase in 2015 and 2016.
Downtown Louisville Officials say construction activities will not prevent organizers from holding events in downtown Louisville. Metro Public Works Director Vanessa Burns said, ‘Our discussions with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Walsh Construction and the Louisville Metro Police Department have resulted in recommended routes that allow safe continued use of downtown Louisville streets for special events while also allowing bridge construction to proceed without unnecessary interruption.’ To ensure maximum safety, Walsh and KYTC recommend adjusting routes within downtown Louisville to be contained completely to the east or west of the affected I-65 corridor to avoid crossing into the work zone. The corridor extends from south of River Rd. to Muhammad Ali Boulevard, with access and safety along roads and ramps adjacent to Interstate 65 affected. Safety the Top Priority Planning in advance and making route adjustments within downtown Louisville will help ensure a safe and successful event. Possible work zone hazards include: · Uneven roadway surfaces created by utility trenches in the road · Steel plates in the road creating tripping hazards · Maintenance of traffic materials (cones, barrels, construction fencing) · Construction equipment and materials impeding sidewalks and roadways In addition to the safety concerns, there are a number of routes that Walsh Construction must have access to for transporting workers, heavy equipment, and supplies. The Louisville Metro Police Department has developed a number of alternative routes and locations for downtown events, some of which have been certified for races. Work on the Downtown Crossing of the Ohio River Bridges Project is expected to continue through December 2016. Crews are currently working Monday through Saturday, with work on Sundays as needed.
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Ohio River Bridges construction work leads to route changes - WDRB 41 Louisville News:
