The I-69 corridor could finally be realizing its completion.
During his Thursday morning “Team Kentucky” Update, Gov. Andy Beshear announced work is underway from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to bring the final 21 miles from Mayfield to Fulton up to interstate standards.
It will fully connect all parts of west Kentucky, and draw the line from the Kentucky-Tennessee state line, all the way up to Henderson and the eventual construction of a state-of-the-art Kentucky-Indianan bridge.
At the cost of $34 million and the job awarded to Jim Smith Contracting in Grand Rivers, Beshear noted the reconstruction of this stretch — which will include a diamond-interchange at Wingo — should finish by the end of 2024.
Crews are also expected to make significant improvements to both Exits 1 and 2 in Fulton.
Once the I-69 Ohio River crossing is complete, the roadway will run from Evansville, Indiana through parts of Graves, Hickman and Fulton counties.
Beshear noted he was pleased to see this project underway, particularly after discussing it leading up to his election and inaugural address.
In a written statement, KYTC District I Chief Engineer Kyle Poat said the old toll booth coverleaf at Wingo will be transformed completely, with contractors “widening culverts, upgrading guardrails, working on drainage and completing other improvements” for full interstate standards.
When construction activity ramps up in the spring, there will be a 55 mph work zone speed limit with an enhanced police presence in areas where crews are present.
