A Oldham County interchange redesigned for the purpose of reducing traffic jams near a growing La Grange business park opened Wednesday, state officials said.
The interchange, located on Interstate 71 at La Grange Parkway (KY-2857), provides access to two other state highways (KY-53 and KY-393). The new connections to these highways should reduce congestion on them, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials said in a news release Wednesday.
“This transformative project addresses traffic challenges on a national highway and upgrades infrastructure to support future growth,” Gov. Andy Beshear said in the release. “With this new interchange, we are creating safer, more efficient travel while fostering a stronger, more connected community for Kentuckians."
Construction of the $16 million interchange originally began in Fall 2022. The project was completed "ahead of schedule," Matt Bullock, chief engineer for KYTC District 5, said in a video for the transportation cabinet. Road work was originally expected to be finished this fall, according to project documents .
Officials also said the new interchange would shorten emergency response times and reduce time spent waiting to get on I-71 from KY-53 during the morning rush hour.
“These ramps are more than just pieces of infrastructure, they represent opportunities,” Oldham County Judge-Executive David Voegele said in a statement. “As we celebrate this achievement, let us remember that it’s not just about concrete and steel — it’s about the positive impact these ramps will have on our daily lives and our collective future.”
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Reach reporter Leo Bertucci at lbertucci@gannett.com or @leober2chee on X, formerly known as Twitter
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: New Interstate 71 interchange opens early near La Grange business park in Oldham County
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