LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- More big changes are coming to Hardin County as a section of Interstate 65 in Glendale got a new interchange. The upgrade will be essential to Blue Oval SK and the 5,000 people set to work there. 

"This is Hardin County's time," said Gov. Andy Beshear. He was among the dignitaries helping to open the new interchange off I-65 at Kentucky Highway 222 on Friday.

A new overpass, interstate ramps and two new intersections gives better access to the BlueOval SK battery plants site. The $37.9 million project allows more vehicles to pass through and use the connecting entrance to BlueOval SK, accommodating the anticipated workforce for the facility.

"We look forward to seeing the benefits," said BlueOval SK CEO Michael Adams.

While this may not seem that monumental, the interchange helps BlueOval SK stay on schedule to open the first of two Hardin County battery plants in 2025.

Adams said the improvements were necessary. "Less congestion will make it easier to get in and out the site, on and off the interstate and in and out of local businesses."

"It keeps us on track for an aggressive opening -- the fastest a plant like this has ever gone up," said Beshear.

There are still a few finishing touches left for the interchange project, but officials expect it to be complete by this summer.

As state officials and BlueOval SK leaders celebrate, they said they aren't concerned about filing the hundreds of open positions or about past complaints of mold exposure from workers at the plant.

"Safety is the priority for employees. We have processes and procedures set up. If there is a mold issue, it's taken care of," Adams said.

More than 700 people have already been hired for the first battery plant. The second factory is still under construction, but there's no timeline for when it will open.

"I'd like for it to happen as quickly as possible with KY 2, but we know it's going to happen. You don't go through a construction the size of this, if you aren't fully confident that it's coming," Beshear added.

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