By Berry Craig, Building Kentucky
An upcoming virtual public meeting will provide an update on the proposed I-69 Ohio River Crossing (I-69 ORX), an important final interstate connection between Henderson, Kentucky and Evansville, Indiana.
The meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the preferred alternative, how the Project Team reached its decision, refinements made, and the next steps for the project.
Central Alternative 1B Modified has been identified as the single preferred alternative. It includes a four-lane I-69 bridge and retains one US 41 bridge for local traffic. Only the I-69 bridge will be tolled. It includes 11.2 miles of new interstate, including 8.4 miles on new terrain and 2.8 miles of upgrades to US 41.
The public meeting is 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 1. People who want to attend the virtual meeting should register in advance at http://bit.ly/I-69ORXPublicMeeting or on the project website. A 15-day comment period will run through Friday, April 16 to accept feedback on the single preferred alternative.
Next Steps
The combined Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of Decision (ROD) are expected this fall. The Project Team will publish the FEIS identifying the selected alternative and receive a ROD from the Federal Highway Administration. The ROD signifies final approval of the selected alternative.
The initial financial plan and project management plan will then be developed. Construction of I-69 ORX Section 1 is expected to begin in 2022.
ORX Sections 1 And 2
I-69 ORX is divided into two sections for construction. I-69 ORX Section 1 focuses on improvements in Henderson and extends from KY 425 to US 60. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is overseeing the project.
I-69 ORX Section 2 is a bistate project between Indiana and Kentucky that will complete the I-69 connection from US 60 in Henderson to I-69 in Evansville. It includes the new 4-lane river crossing.