31W Bypass Widening Project Underway: Traffic Impacts Expected

Edmonson Voice Report:
A project to widen the U.S. 31-W Bypass in Bowling Green began last night as crews began setting up the construction zone and lane closures. According to KYTC District 3, these long-term lane closures will create significant traffic impacts in the area. Major delays and traffic queues are expected.

KYTC said in a released statement that during construction, U.S. 31-W will be reduced to one through lane in each direction from KY 234 (Fairview Avenue) to Park Street. A single left-turn lane will be maintained on U.S. 31-W at the intersection with KY 234.

Access to the hospital, medical facilities and businesses will remain open from U.S. 31-W throughout construction. However, additional access points are available outside the work zone. The work zone is expected to remain in place until fall 2027.

"The widening project addresses multiple issues along the U.S. 31-W Bypass corridor from the intersection with KY 234 north to Park Street," the statement said. "Left-turn lanes at the KY 234 intersection will be lengthened to increase capacity. A dedicated through lane along with a lane for right turns and straight through movements will also be added."

In addition to intersection improvements, a center two-way left-turn lane will be added along the corridor, and a raised median will manage access near the KY 234 intersection. The project will widen the current four-lane roadway to five lanes.

Scotty’s Contracting and Stone LLC was awarded the $7.4 million contract in January.