BEREA, KY — I-75 construction in Madison County, KY has finally reached completion, bringing relief to drivers as all lanes are now open. This milestone wraps up years of lane closures and slowdowns, and marks a major improvement for local commuters and businesses.
What Drivers Need to Know
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) project included repaving all travel lanes, drainage and slide repairs, bridge barrier wall work, exit ramp upgrades, restriping, and safety enhancements along roughly 12 miles of I-75 between mile marker 86 (south of Richmond) and the Clays Ferry bridge near mile marker 98.
The project began in earnest in 2022, with alternating lane closures, reduced speed zones, and shifting traffic patterns causing delays for commuters and freight traffic alike. While the project was originally scheduled for completion by late October 2025, crews managed to reopen all lanes ahead of schedule by mid-October. Final finishing work—including shoulder improvements, striping, and occasional intermittent closures—will continue through the end of the year, but major travel disruptions are over.
For more on local road projects, see our infrastructure improvements roundup.
What Drivers Can Expect Next
- All Lanes Open: Interstate traffic now flows freely through Madison County, with barrels and barriers removed.
- Finishing Touches: Occasional short-term lane closures may occur for shoulder work or striping, but these will be minimal compared to past disruptions.
- Safer, Smoother Travel: Drivers benefit from new pavement, improved drainage, and upgraded bridge barriers.
- Economic Relief: Local officials and businesses anticipate improved access and renewed economic activity now that the highway is fully open.
For project updates, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
Community Response
Local news outlets report widespread relief among residents, commuters, and business owners, with many expressing optimism about the positive impact on daily life and regional commerce. “I-75 construction in Madison County was a headache, but having all lanes open again is a huge relief,” said one local driver.
For continued updates, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website or local news outlets.