Department of Highways, District 6
Governor Beshear breaks ground on Mall Road project

Governor Beshear breaks ground on Mall Road project

$13 million investment modernizes Florence Mall corridor

FLORENCE, Ky. (May 14, 2010) —Gov. Steve Beshear today joined community leaders in Florence to break ground on the long-awaited Mall Road project, a two-phase project designed to reverse deteriorating road conditions in the popular Florence Mall retail corridor and make it more attractive.

Improvement of Mall Road has been at the top of Gov. Beshear’s transportation priorities.

“With its close proximity to Interstates 71 and 75, Mall Road is one of the best-known and most visible retail districts in Kentucky, and it is an economic mainstay of Northern Kentucky in particular,” Gov. Beshear said. “This is an investment in an area that already accounts for more than 3,400 employees and nearly $115 million in employee wages.”

The project, for which the state has authorized $13 million in state bond funds, is being administered by the city of Florence under an agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

“This is a great development for Boone County and Florence as it will encourage business in these tough economic times,” said Sen. John Schickel, of Union.  “These investments in infrastructure will cultivate economic growth in our region from which future generations will benefit.”

“I am pleased to join Governor Beshear, city officials, colleagues and all those who clearly understood the return on investment to our community and state generated along the Mall Road corridor and worked to ensure the Mall Road repair and reconstruct road project became a reality,” said Rep. Addia Wuchner, of Florence.

Crews will begin the 1.5-mile project by replacing old pavement and storm water drainage lines.  In addition, landscaped medians, street trees, sidewalks, decorative street lights and signage will be installed.  Once completed, the project will provide a pedestrian-friendly and landscaped environment.

“In order to attract new development, we must modernize our infrastructure to accommodate the traveling public,” Acting Transportation Secretary Mike Hancock said.  “With nearly 16 million vehicles traveling Mall Road annually, this project focuses on the important aspects of safety and infrastructure improvements.”

Phase I, from KY 18 to the I-75 exit ramp, is scheduled to begin before Memorial Day and be completed by November 2010.  Phase II, from the I-75 exit ramp to US 42, will be completed by November 2011.  The low-bid contract was awarded to Lawrence Construction of Burlington.

“This project is a result of many years of hard work and extensive advocacy efforts,” Florence Mayor Diane Whalen said.  “We appreciate Governor Beshear and his administration for recognizing the economic significance of our retail corridor and providing the funding necessary to ensure Florence remains the retail hub of Northern Kentucky.”

Governor Steve Beshear

Mall Road Groundbreaking

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