The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has received $13.5 million to go towards replacing four bridges on U.S. 79 in Logan and Todd Counties.
According to a news release, the funding is a part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s “Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development” grant program. Senator Mitch McConnell, who helped secure the funding, says, “I was just in Russellville last week and drove on U.S. 79 on my way to Fort Campbell. I saw firsthand the need for these improvements. This federal investment can help protect families and workers as they bring their products to market, support the local economy and take advantage of this region’s bright future.”
The federal funding will help widen travel lanes and shoulders to increase traveler safety, enhance connectivity, and increase the region’s economic competitiveness. The projects are particularly important due to increased truck traffic with construction of Novelis.
Todd County Judge-Executive Todd Mansfield says, “The BUILD Grant award for U.S. 79 is great news for Logan County, Todd County and our southwest region of Kentucky. The project to replace the four bridges along U.S. 79 is of great need and we are so appreciative of the acknowledgement by this award.”