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I was wrong about U.S. 68 and I admit it

October 05, 2011|By Rhonda Dragomir | Journal Columnist

“It takes a big man to admit when he is wrong.” How many times have we heard that saying? I don’t want to leave myself open for good-natured teasing about my size, but I find that I must admit it. I was wrong.

When the new U.S. 68 construction was well under way, I whined and moaned about the dimwitted planners who did not include a solution to the “Y” intersection in the improvements. I predicted long queues of traffic where the lanes merged, an increase in accidents, and general mayhem for the traveling public.

None of that materialized. Could it be? Could engineers and planners actually know more than I? Alas, apparently I must admit that they do.

More than once I’ve noted, with great enthusiasm, the vast improvement in safety and efficiency that the four-lane road has enabled. The drive to Lexington from Wilmore is now a pleasure, no longer consisting of white-knuckled turns and horrified wonder at those drivers who sped and passed other vehicles in spite of solid yellow lines.

The “Y” has not become safer, but neither has it been worsened by the new construction. Drivers still need to slow down, use turn signals and double-check the oncoming traffic for speed and distance. It remains a dangerous intersection, and one that merits further review and planning for improvement. But none of my dire predictions materialized. For once, I’m happy to have been wrong.

I do have one question for the planners, though. Why were the orange cones out again this year while turn lanes were added? Wouldn’t it have been easier and less expensive just to put them in during the original project? I suspect it has something to do with meeting deadlines. I’m not the only one who noticed — several people who know I write an opinion column asked me to find the answer, but I’ve not made inquiries. Does anyone know?

The success of the U.S. 68 project makes me so eager for a few other improvements. When, oh when, will we finally see the connector to I-75?

And has anyone considered widening for Ky. 169 between 68 and the bypass? With the ease and speed of travel on U.S. 68 that has become my new preference for travel to Nicholasville, I can’t help but notice that the same qualities that made 68 so dangerous still exist on that route. Sharp curves bank the wrong way, the shoulder is non-existent in some spots, and water ponds in unexpected places.

I know the budget has restrictions because of the economic crisis, but I’m just selfish enough to want the improvements anyway.

I suppose there will never be an end to driving challenges on our landscape. But even if roads are straighter and safer in Kansas, I’ll still prefer driving in my beautiful Bluegrass State.

It’s been said that admitting one’s faults builds character. I’m rejoicing that my humility is having a chance to grow. But I don’t have to like it very much.

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