Lexington, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Lexington has obtained its largest federal grant of $22 million for the redesign of North New Circle Road, aimed at improving safety along a 1.8-mile stretch known for high crash rates. With 2,282 accidents reported between 2015 and 2021, the project will introduce shared-use paths, enhanced pedestrian crossings, and Restricted Crossing U-Turn Intersections (RCUTs) to reduce collisions. A public open house will be held to engage with residents about the plans and their safety concerns.
Lexington has recently secured its largest federal grant to date, amounting to $22 million, for a significant redesign of North New Circle Road, an area notorious for its high crash rate. This redesign project will cover approximately 1.8 miles of road, stretching from Development Drive to Bryan Station Road. The project aims to reduce serious collisions and enhance safety for pedestrians and drivers in the surrounding neighborhoods, including Castlewood, Bryan Station, Elkhorn Park, Green Acres, Hollow Creek, and Breckenridge.
The need for this redesign comes as statistics reveal alarming safety concerns; from 2015 to 2021, there were over 2,282 significant crashes reported in this stretch of New Circle Road, several of which involved pedestrians. The aim is to transform the road into a safer thoroughfare that protects both pedestrians and drivers by minimizing the chances of accidents.
The comprehensive redesign will introduce shared-use paths, improved pedestrian crossings, and four Restricted Crossing U-Turn Intersections (RCUTs). These RCUTs have been proven to decrease severe collisions by effectively managing traffic flow and improving visibility. The total estimated cost of the redesign project is $35 million, with the remainder of the funding sourced locally, marking a historic investment in the city’s infrastructure.
A public open house is scheduled for Thursday, November 6, from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Northern Elementary, located at 340 Rookwood Parkway. This event will allow residents to review project plans, pose questions, and offer feedback to city planners. Residents are encouraged to attend at any time during the event to engage in discussions about the redesign and its potential impact on their daily lives.
The collaboration for this project involves the city of Lexington and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, highlighting a unified effort to address the issues that plague North New Circle Road. While the plans have been laid out and funding secured, the timeline for construction commencement remains unspecified at this time. The initiative not only seeks to improve roadway safety but also aims to ensure that the road better serves the needs of local residents, improving access and making it safer for active transportation methods like walking and biking.
The redesign of North New Circle Road represents a major step forward in safeguarding the lives of residents and visitors alike by creating a more navigable and pedestrian-friendly environment. With the continued implementation of data-driven strategies and community involvement, Lexington aims to reimagine this crucial roadway segment.
Key Statistics
- Total accidents from 2015 to 2021: 2,282
- Project length: 1.8 miles
- Total project cost: $35 million
- Federal grant amount: $22 million
FAQs
What is the purpose of the redesign of North New Circle Road?
The redesign aims to reduce serious crashes and enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility along the corridor.
When is the public open house scheduled?
The public open house is on Thursday, November 6, from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
What neighborhoods will be impacted by the redesign?
The project will impact Castlewood, Bryan Station, Elkhorn Park, Green Acres, Hollow Creek, and Breckenridge.
Key Features of the Redesign Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Shared-use Paths | Designed for pedestrians and cyclists to safely travel alongside vehicles. |
| Enhanced Pedestrian Crossings | Improved crossings will make it easier and safer for pedestrians to navigate the road. |
| RCUTs | Restricted Crossing U-Turns to reduce severe collisions. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Lexington’s Major Safety Redesign for North New Circle Road
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Additional Resources
- Lex18: Lexington to Redesign Dangerous Stretch of New Circle Road
- Kentucky.com: Redesign Plans for New Circle Road
- WKYT: Redesign Planned for Major Lexington Road
- Kentucky.com: Update on New Circle Road Issues
- Google Search: Lexington New Circle Road redesign
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