In a move to improve Kentucky’s transportation system, Governor Andy Beshear has announced an increase in the speed limit on certain highway sections. As part of the Better Kentucky Plan, Secretary Jim Gray has signed an order directing the higher limit on specific stretches of U.S. Route 68/state Route 80 and the state Route 80 Mayfield South Bypass.
The previously enforced 55 mph speed limit has been raised to 65 mph on these four-lane sections, covering a total of 9 miles. This change aims to enhance travel efficiency and convenience for drivers in Trigg and Graves counties.
“The U.S. 68/Kentucky 80 corridor is a well-designed, well-constructed highway that can safely accommodate the higher speed limit,” Gov. Beshear said. “This corridor already is a tremendous asset as a four-lane connector between Interstate 24 at Cadiz and Interstate 69 at Mayfield. By updating the out-of-date speed limit, we are reducing congestion and helping Kentuckians get to their destination quicker and safer, while also increasing economic development by enhancing the flow of commerce in this area.”
The speed limit will stay at 55 mph for a nine-mile stretch of road, including the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and the I-24 Exit 65 interchange near Cadiz. This limit also applies to the U.S. 641/state Route 80 intersection near Murray and near the state Route 121 bypass in Mayfield, where there are traffic signals.
The speed limit along U.S. 68/state route 80 has been increased to 65 mph. This change applies to the stretch from Cadiz through Christian, Todd, and Logan counties all the way to the edge of Bowling Green. A section of state Route 80 in Calloway and Graves counties has also seen an increase in the speed limit. In addition, the speed limit on four-lane sections of U.S. 641 and U.S. 45 has also been raised.
To ensure safety at these higher speeds, Transportation Cabinet engineers carefully analyzed similar road segments where the speed limit was increased earlier.
“This speed limit change means goods and materials can move into and out of the area more efficiently,” said Graves County Judge-Executive Jesse Perry. “Raising the speed limit turns the U.S. 68/Kentucky 80 corridor into an even greater asset in the competitive arena of economic development and job expansion.”
Source: Land Line
