LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — State transportation officials are seeking public input on a new effort to improve traffic flow, safety and connectivity in Louisville’s Portland neighborhood.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is conducting a community connectivity study focused on a loop through the west end neighborhood, stretching from 15th Street and Portland Avenue to Shawnee Golf Course, along Bank Street and back to 16th Street.
The study aims to address how drivers, pedestrians and cyclists move through an area where Interstates 64 and 264 intersect nearby.
Ernie Hutchens, who has lived in Portland for more than four decades, said changes are long overdue.
“Portland’s needed it ever since I was born — I’m 73,” William Earnest Hutchens said. “They talk about all they are going to do to Portland, but it never comes.”
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is conducting a community connectivity study focused on a loop through the west end neighborhood, stretching from 15th Street and Portland Avenue to Shawnee Golf Course, along Bank Street and back to 16th Street. (Photo courtesy of KYTC)
Hutchens said he would like to see improvements such as speed bumps and better pedestrian infrastructure, including crosswalks near high-traffic areas like local clinics.
Business owners in the neighborhood said traffic conditions can also create challenges.
“Bank Street is very narrow the farther down you get, especially around where the trains go over the overpass,” said Dave Jewell, who volunteers at Cup of Joy coffee shop.
He added that speeding is a frequent concern.
“I guess the thing I have the most problem with is the speed — these people fly up and down the streets,” he said.
Transportation officials said the study will focus on improving safety and mobility while strengthening connections within the community.
The state held an initial public meeting last year and plans to host another on May 21 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, located at 3511 Rudd Avenue in Louisville. Residents are encouraged to attend and share feedback on what is working and what needs improvement in the neighborhood.
For more information on the project, click here.
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