Multi-year project on Highway 44 in Bullitt County will be a 'nightmare,' drivers say

MT. WASHINGTON, Ky. (WDRB) -- A long-discussed plan to widen a busy Bullitt County highway is moving forward, prompting both hope and concern from drivers, business owners and residents.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is considering major upgrades along Highway 44, stretching from Bardstown Road to the Spencer County line. The project would expand the road from three lanes to five in front of Bullitt East High School and from two lanes to three farther east. Up to six roundabouts are also being studied as part of the redesign option.

For many who use the corridor daily, the changes are overdue.

"It is a nightmare," said Josh Steven, who runs a jewelry store at the intersection of Highway 44 and Bardstown Road. "It's a struggle to get through on a normal day without construction. So you add construction exponentially, (and) it will be a struggle to get through."

Drivers say congestion and backups are a routine frustration.

"It can be a beast," said Jimmy Shawler, who uses the road every day. "It takes nothing more than one person to hit their brakes and it creates that chain reaction domino effect. And next thing you know, you are stuck in traffic for hours."

Others recognize the need for improvements but brace for short-term pain.

"It's got to expand but it is going to be really bad for a while," said Deborah Murphy, a Mt. Washington resident.

State officials said the project aims to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians while easing traffic flow through one of Bullitt County's fastest-growing areas. The widening has been discussed for years — initial public feedback sessions were held in 2009 — but residents are now beginning to see plans take shape.

"Since I have been very young, I can always remember 44 is going to be widened, 44 is going to be worked," Stevenson said.

A final design decision is expected in the coming months, with right-of-way acquisition to begin in 2027 and construction in 2029.

"That's a long time," Steven said. "Four years to endure anything like that is a long time. I'll be happy when it's done."

A public meeting on the proposal will be held from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at Calvary Christian Center on Highway 44.

KYTC has also opened an online feedback form for residents unable to attend. To leave your input, click here.

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Multi-year project on Highway 44 in Bullitt County will be a 'nightmare,' drivers say