Department of Highways, District 6
Governor Ernie Fletcher, Transportation Cabinet Announce $2.2 Million Transportation Investment for Northern Kentucky University

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 13 , 2007) – Governor Ernie Fletcher’s chief of staff, Stan Cave, today joined leaders from Northern Kentucky University, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and leaders of the community and region in breaking ground for a $2.2 million campus access road.  The upgrade will pave the way to NKU’s new, $60 million Bank of Kentucky Center, currently under construction.

“I am proud to represent Governor Fletcher as we break ground on this project. It will have a positive impact on NKU and the region,” Cave said.  “This administration is committed to identifying investments that will enhance the quality of life in local communities for generations to come.”

The Transportation Cabinet gave NKU the design for the roadway and $2,213,415 for its construction. Eaton Asphalt Co., of Wilder, was awarded the project and has begun construction.   The improvements will begin at the intersection of Nunn Drive and University Drive and proceed toward the parking garage.

“This is a big day not just for NKU but for our entire region,” NKU President James Votruba said. “As our campus continues to grow, this project will allow us to accommodate our increasing student population. And when the Bank of Kentucky Center opens, we’ll be able to welcome visitors from around the Commonwealth with ease and convenience.”

A “roundabout” will be built at the intersection of Nunn and University drives.  There will be two lanes, north and south, with a grass median, curb, gutter, sidewalks and bike lanes.

"Governor Fletcher is to be commended for working with our northern Kentucky legislators to ensure that our infrastructure needs keep pace with our dynamic growth," stated Senate President Pro Tem Katie Stine (R-Southgate). "This new road will help to ease the commute for thousands of residents while safely bringing visitors to our new events center."

"We are fortunate to have a Governor who recognizes the needs of our community and region,” said Rep. Joe Fischer (R-Fort Thomas). "This new access road is vital not only for the Bank of Kentucky Center but will also help to accommodate future growth in central Campbell County."  

Nunn Drive and a portion of University Drive will be closed to traffic this summer in order to facilitate construction activities. The road closings will continue until mid-August. Both roads should be reopened before the start of the fall semester.

The Bank of Kentucky Center is in the background of where the new improved access road is being constructed on the NKU campus.

The intersection of Nunn Drive and University Drive will have a roundabout that will improve traffic flow and safety.

Pictured left to right are:  NKU Vice President Ken Ramey, NKU Vice President of Academic Affairs Gail Wells, Representative Dennis Keene, Representative Jon Draud, Senator Jack Westwood, NKU President Dr. James Votruba, Governor Fletcher's Chief of Staff Stan Cave, Deputy Secretary of Transportation Crystal Ducker, Secretary of Transportation Bill Nighbert, Representative Joe Fischer, Representative Adam Koenig and Representative Sal Santoro officially dedicate the groundbreaking of the $2.2 million dollar improved access road on the NKU campus.

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