Since the median on the bypass is not wider than 30 feet, the cabinet cannot place do-not-enter signs on the opposite lane of traffic. The tall, plastic posts outlining the median on the north bypass can help drivers see which lane to enter.
Workers also erected large bypass-ahead signs at the south intersection, he said.
A public hearing about a study of the northwest part of the bypass will be held in June to get feedback, said Stuart Goodpaster, a state planning branch manager.
Lighting the north intersection of the bypass was a major topic of conversation at the meeting. Stanley said problems stem more from the lack of proper lighting than from the design of the intersection itself.
Technically, the state cannot install lighting on smaller intersections not associated with major interstates and parkways, he said.
The $1.2 million in federal funding for bypass improvements are not specified for lighting the north intersection but could possibly be used for lighting in the future.
"I've been in contact with some of my counterparts in Frankfort and they've spoken with me about lighting issues," Stanley said. "I've not got clarification on whether the department can provide lighting. In several instances with counties I've worked with before, they went ahead and put up the lighting themselves."
Possible future construction
Judge-Executive John Trisler asked about further highway construction that may be planned for the north intersection.
"We certainly wouldn't want to put lighting in there and then turn around and find out if you're going to change the intersection," he said.
Goodpaster said the cabinet is "pretty solid" on no other construction being planned for that intersection.
With the construction of Skylar's Landing and the Eddie Montgomery Steakhouse on the bypass, there may be more traffic to the road later this year when the development opens, Trisler said.
"It's a concern we have," he said. "We incrementally do things and end up with a big problem."
"That makes it imperative we get the lighting in," Stanley said.
Lighting can last longer than reflective paint used to steer traffic, Stanley said. The paint is not as vibrant in three or four years, while road lighting lasts longer and can be altered. There are shades that can be placed on road lights to properly light the road while not blinding drivers, he said.
"We're concerned for the safety of our constituents," said Magistrate Ronnie Sims.
As for the south intersection, the merging ramp, where many trucks have overturned, will be reconstructed, Goodpaster said.
When asked about advance warning flashing lights for the intersections, Stanley said they are not needed for this intersection since they are used for intersections that have a problem with drivers running red lights. Stanley said he will look into the possibility.
"When approaching the bypass, drivers should be in preparation to stop no matter what," he said. "They should be coming to a stop anyway."
Stanley suggested looking into some kind of public campaign to inform drivers about the bypass.
"We wouldn't be sitting up here ... if it weren't for the people," said Magistrate Larry Peyton.
