Horse Cave Connector Project

Press Release: Project Awarded January, 2024 / Work Begins March, 2024

Work Begins on Horse Cave Connector

New route will improve safety and efficiency downtown

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (Mar. 6, 2024) – Construction begins this week on the new connector between US 31W and KY 218 on the southwestern side of Horse Cave. Officially introduced for planning in 2016 with the designed route selected in 2018, utility relocation work has been recently completed and a project awarded January 4th in the amount of $8.85 Million to Scotty's Contracting and Stone, LLC.

Improving safety and efficiency, the connector will help relieve truck traffic issues at the intersection of US 31W/KY 218 downtown and the adjacent KY 218 railroad crossing. The project provides better access to and from Interstate 65 and industrial facilities located on the southern end of Horse Cave. It also includes a bridge over the railroad, eliminating tight turns and reducing the potential for railroad crossing collisions. Shifting truck volume to the new route will reduce wear and tear and allow local traffic to move more freely through the downtown intersection.

The connector ties to KY 218 just west of the KY 335 split and US 31W approximately one-half mile south of the downtown intersection.

Initial work includes installation of construction signage along KY 218 and KY 335. Excavation and ground clearing will be taking place over the next several weeks. Construction will be phased over the next two years with a June 30, 2025 completion date specified in the contract.

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July, 2018 Public Meeting, Green Alignment Selected

Horse Cave Connector Studio Information 2018