Jackson Purchase News

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has announced that the Department of Transportation (DOT) will provide Louisville Metro Government with $7,500,000 in federal funding for road improvements in downtown Louisville. This funding will be used to convert several important arteries from one-way to two-way streets, enhancing access to businesses and residences and improving traffic flow and safety.

The federal funding is made possible through the DOT's Safe Streets and Roads Program, which was established in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). McConnell played a crucial role in leading the IIJA to Senate passage two years ago. The IIJA allocates billions of federal dollars to Kentucky over five years for various infrastructure projects.

McConnell, as a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, personally contacted the Secretary of Transportation in support of Louisville Metro Government's application for the funding. In a statement, McConnell acknowledges the impact of inefficient and congested roads on the community and emphasizes the importance of improving road safety: "I'm grateful to see today's significant investment go toward reducing this deadly trend."

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg expressed his gratitude for the federal investment, stating, "I'm proud to help announce this incredible federal investment in one of Louisville's busiest corridors." He outlined the planned improvements, which include converting 2nd and 3rd streets into two-way streets, adding bike and turn lanes, and enhancing safety at every intersection from the University of Louisville to Broadway. Mayor Greenberg thanked McConnell and Congressman McGarvey for their assistance in securing the funding and looks forward to the positive impact the project will have on the community.

This funding allocation highlights the commitment of federal and local authorities to improving infrastructure and road safety in Louisville. By converting one-way streets to two-way streets and implementing additional safety measures, the project aims to enhance mobility and accessibility for residents, commuters, and visitors, while reducing traffic conflicts and increasing overall safety.

The investment in downtown Louisville's roadways is part of a broader effort to improve Kentucky's infrastructure. The IIJA provides significant federal funding for various projects across the state, including roads, bridges, railroads, riverports, airports, and broadband.

With this funding secured, Louisville Metro Government can now proceed with the much-needed improvements to downtown roadways. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the quality of life for those living, working, and visiting the Old Louisville area and its surrounding neighborhoods.

The federal funding announcement is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Senator McConnell, Mayor Greenberg, and Congressman McGarvey in prioritizing the safety and accessibility of Louisville's road network. Through their advocacy and support, this investment will contribute to the overall improvement of transportation infrastructure in the city.

The project is eagerly anticipated, and the community is looking forward to experiencing the positive changes that will result from the conversion of one-way streets to two-way streets, the addition of bike and turn lanes, and the enhanced safety measures that will be implemented.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=A6FAF340-E9A7-458C-AC9B-B57E82111E61