The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is expediting a friction treatment on an area of Interstate 71/75 southbound that has seen several crashes over the past year, especially during rainy conditions. Several crashes Saturday near the curve at exit 187 damaged the median wall, already broken from previous hits.
“KYTC District 6 is finalizing repair plans for a pavement surface treatment called skidabrader in order to increase friction in the half-mile area,” said District 6 Chief District Engineer Bob Yeager. “The work schedule should be finalized within the week. Work will take place during night hours and is expected to end before Thanksgiving”
A more extensive improvement project for the area, which includes base failure corrections and barrier wall repair, is scheduled for letting in November. The skidabrader treatment was set to be part of that work, but will now be accelerated through a special contract. KYTC District 6 will notify the public once the work schedule is finalized.
“Until repairs are complete, we ask motorists to be extra cautious as they drive this section of I-71/75, especially during adverse weather conditions,” said Yeager. “There is a safety enforcement campaign along this section of road, ‘Slippery When Wet’ signage in place, and a 55 mph speed limit from the Brent Spence Bridge to Florence. By following the law, motorists can help ensure our roads remain crash free.”
###
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, District 6 * 421 Buttermilk Pike * Covington, KY 41017