Construction began today on a $4.4 million federally-funded Highway Safety Improvement Program project on KY 82 in Estill County.
The work involves resurfacing of the route from the KY 89 intersection at Hargett to the Powell County line, including a realignment of a half-mile section of roadway in a curve between milepoints 0.919 and 1.392.
The first stage of the project is tree removal, which must be completed by June 1. The project is to be substantially complete, except for final surfacing, by Nov. 15, with final completion by May 31, 2024.
Drivers may encounter some traffic inconveniences during the tree removal portion of the project. Construction activity will increase following the tree removal. Motorists are urged to watch for flaggers along the project and to abide by their traffic control direction. Traffic updates will be provided when appropriate on the Department of Highways District 10's Facebook.
Between 3,400 and 3,700 vehicles use KY 82 in Estill County each day. The road is the main link between Estill and Powell counties.
The project is part of the Highway Safety Improvement Program, a federal aid program of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, with the purpose of achieving a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries.