The city of Covington, Kentucky, has commenced work on a project to relocate a state highway from several densely populated neighborhoods. The initiative aims to enhance safety in areas including Eastside, Helentown, Austinburg, and Wallace Woods by moving the state route Ky. 17 to Madison Avenue.
City Manager Ken Smith commented on the project: “Finally, this long-discussed and long-planned conversion is coming to fruition.” He emphasized that neighborhood leaders have expressed concerns about traffic volume and speed for some time. "With this project we will improve safety for everybody," he added.
Currently, Scott Boulevard and Greenup Street operate as a one-way couplet carrying Ky. 17 from 20th Street to the Roebling Suspension Bridge over the Ohio River. Following input from neighborhood leaders since 2016, the city collaborated with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to shift Ky. 17's designation westward to Madison Avenue between 20th and 12th streets.
Assistant Public Works Director Bill Matteoli detailed ongoing work by Riegler Blacktop’s crews, which includes curb repairs along Scott and Greenup Streets and base pouring for new light poles on Madison Avenue. Upcoming tasks involve installing ADA ramps at certain corners, erecting new signage, resurfacing all three streets between 12th and 20th streets likely this summer, converting traffic signals into stop signs at specific intersections, while parking arrangements remain largely unchanged.
A separate resurfacing project under contract by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will address sections of Ky. 17 extending from Latonia Avenue near Mother of God Cemetery to Greenup Street.
Originally allocated $2.5 million during the 2022 legislative session by the Kentucky General Assembly, projected costs have increased to $3.66 million due to necessary signal upgrades on Madison Avenue and state requirements for an on-site project monitor.
The changes stemmed from public discussions led by representatives of Eastern 4 neighborhood group communities such as Austinburg and Helentown. The plan aims not only at improving safety but also enhancing walkability and promoting business district development.
According to Economic Development Director Tom West: “We’re talking about a better quality of life and quality of place.” He noted potential benefits like increased investment in neighborhoods encouraging more walkable environments conducive for businesses while attracting residents willing to renovate abandoned structures.