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Lexington Plans $33.5 Million Widening of New Circle Road

Visual representation of the planned widening and safety improvements for New Circle Road.

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News Summary

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has announced a $33.5 million plan to widen New Circle Road by 2028, aiming to address congestion, improve safety for pedestrians, and spur local economic growth. The project will include adding two lanes and exploring innovative traffic solutions like “bowtie intersections.” Community input is being solicited as design plans progress, with construction slated to begin in 2028.

Lexington, Kentucky – $33.5 Million Plan to Widen New Circle Road by 2028

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has unveiled plans for a significant widening project on New Circle Road, which aims to add two additional lanes between Trade Center Drive and Woodhill Drive. The estimated cost for this project is $33.5 million, with completion targeted for as early as 2028.

The primary objectives of the project are to address worsening congestion, enhance roadway safety, and improve facilities for pedestrians. These enhancements are expected to stimulate economic growth in the surrounding area, providing safer access that can lead to increased local business opportunities. Notably, improvements will also be introduced at the intersections of Liberty Drive and Woodhill Drive, where current conditions have raised safety concerns.

As the project is currently in the design phase, officials are exploring the possibility of integrating “innovative intersections” to better manage traffic flow, potentially reducing reliance on traditional stoplights. Traffic patterns at these intersections have historically been problematic, marked by a number of fatalities and significant congestion issues. According to a 2017 traffic report from the Lexington Police Department, East New Circle Road, particularly between Palumbo Drive and Woodhill Drive, has been identified as the most hazardous driving area in Lexington.

In order to enhance traffic movement at the problematic intersections, proposed alternatives to conventional stoplight arrangements could involve constructing an overpass or implementing a unique “bowtie intersection” design that employs roundabouts on adjacent thoroughfares.

In addition to vehicle traffic improvements, the project also prioritizes pedestrian infrastructure enhancements, an area that currently lacks adequate facilities. Proposed designs may include a pedestrian bridge or an underpass to separate foot traffic from vehicular movement on New Circle Road. This aims to provide safer crossings for pedestrians, thus encouraging walking as a viable option in this busy area.

The timeline for the project anticipates that final designs will be completed in the upcoming years, leading to the right-of-way acquisition and utility relocations, expected to commence in 2026. Community input has been solicited to ensure that the most appropriate improvements are made, taking local feedback into consideration as a critical component of the planning process.

Construction will be organized into phases, with right-of-way and utility relocations beginning in 2026, followed by actual construction work set to start in 2028. However, local residents have expressed concerns about potential impacts on property values and parking availability due to the proposed changes.

In summary, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is positioning this widening project not only as a critical infrastructure improvement plan but also as a key element for community safety and local economic development. The incorporation of public feedback and innovative traffic solutions signifies a proactive approach to addressing longstanding issues within this busy corridor.

As the project progresses, the Transportation Cabinet stresses the importance of ongoing community engagement to refine project plans and address resident concerns effectively.