TOLLESBORO — Fulfilling a commitment made to Tollesboro residents this summer, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has installed a traffic signal at the intersection of Ky. 57 and the A-A Highway in Lewis County.
The new signal, which is currently in “flash” mode, is scheduled to become fully operational the week of Dec. 14.
The signal was approved as a highway safety measure following a public meeting at Tollesboro in which more than 100 residents, legislators and local officials voiced concerns about the A-A and its intersection with Ky. 57, where a crash history includes multiple fatalities.
“Construction of the A-A Highway provided an efficient and much-needed roadway across northeastern Kentucky,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “But safety issues developed on the A-A at Tollesboro, and the need for a traffic signal became apparent. I am pleased that we were able to take this action, and I am confident it will result in a safer highway.”
The A-A-Ky. 57 intersection is now controlled for traffic approaching from all four directions. The new signal includes double-red beacons and reflective yellow backplates for better visibility.
New advance warning flashers east and west of the intersection alert motorists that the signal is about to change.
Local lawmakers who attended this summer’s public meeting welcomed the changes.
“With the benefits it’s poised to provide to thousands of residents each day, this new traffic signal is an example of one of our top priorities in the legislature — improved highway and community safety,” said State Sen. Robin Webb, D-Grayson, whose district stretches along the A-A Highway from Bracken to Carter and Greenup counties. “We’re very pleased to see it become a reality.”
“It will make the intersection safer not only for Tollesboro residents but also for residents of the entire region,” said State Rep. Mike Denham, D-Maysville, who represents Fleming, Mason and Bracken counties. “We appreciate the Transportation Cabinet’s efforts in accomplishing this project.”
Cabinet engineers had previously undertaken a number of safety measures at the intersection, including overhead flashing beacons and oversized stop signs. Those safety devices were replaced by the new signal and its accompanying warning flashers. The new devices will complement other safety measures at the intersection, including dedicated left- and right-turn lanes and rumble “stripes” that warn motorists when they are about to cross the center line or run off the road.
