LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A construction project will make a corridor on West Kentucky Street more pedestrian friendly.
The city of Louisville will start a construction project on West Kentucky Street from 4th to 8th streets intended to improve the appearance, traffic flow and safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.
According to a news release Wednesday, community members asked for West Kentucky Street to be transformed into a two-way road. They also asked for improvements to pedestrian crossings at 7th and 5th streets, safer bike access, slower traffic and a greener streetscape.
"This corridor is an artery that links the hearts of the California and Old Louisville neighborhoods together -- connecting residents, churches, businesses and colleges," Jennifer Caummisar-Kern, director of Louisville Metro Public Works, said in a news release. "These dynamic improvement plans are shaped by the voices of the community, feedback from not just stakeholders but from those who live, work, learn, and play in the area."
Some of the scheduled improvements include converting West Kentucky Street into a two-way street from 8th to 5th street, providing a continuous east and west two-way roadway from 15th to 5th street. The two-way conversion will include updated striping and signage.
A bike lane and pedestrian crossings will be added from 7th to 5th street. The intersections at 5th and 6th streets will be four-way stops. Trees will also be added, along with a TARC stop being improved on 7th Street.
"We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as routes are temporarily disrupted for the benefit of public safety. This work will help enhance safety in the area by easing traffic flow, boosting visibility for businesses and organizations, and making traveling easier for all modes of transit," Kern said. "Reducing confusion and increasing pedestrian access is important along any corridor, but especially one with numerous destinations like Simmons College, Spalding University, Ben Washer Park and the Louisville Memorial Auditorium."
According to a news release, more than $1 million will be invested in the project. Parts of West Kentucky Street will be closed to traffic during construction.
Drivers are encouraged to follow posted detour routes, plan alternate routes and allow for additional travel tie. This phase of the project is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, 2025.
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