According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), the state plans on a $180 million project to upgrade I-265, I-71, and I-64 over four years.
In essence, the project joins four into one, all identified as statewide priorities by the Strategic Highway Investment Formula for Tomorrow (SHIFT). I-265 will be widened at the center and gain a 12-foot lane of traffic in each direction between KY 155 and I-71. I-71 itself will undergo similar treatment between I-265 and KY 329, in addition to gaining a collector-distributor lane on south I-71 that should aid ramp movements to and from I-265. Meanwhile, the I-64/I-265 interchange will be reconstructed.
“I-Move Kentucky will improve safety and mobility on three major interstates that join together in eastern Jefferson County and will allow travelers and freight to move freely through the region,” KYTC Secretary Greg Thomas said. “These were among the most important projects identified during last year’s SHIFT prioritization. By tackling them together, we’re saving Kentucky taxpayers time and money.”
The project represents the state’s largest since the Ohio River Bridges Project. It will be built under a design-build approach, which means both the project design and construction efforts are handled as a single project, rather than multiple sub-project teams. The group that provides the best value will be the one selected to oversee the project come fall.
KYTC expects pre-construction work to begin later this year. It wants to see construction completed by the end of 2023.