The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet says a major rockfall stabilization project is set to begin later this month along the Pikeville Bypass.
Work is scheduled to start Monday, April 20th, following the Hillbilly Days. The $3.5 million project is aimed at reducing rockfalls and improving safety along KY 1426, building on similar work completed in past years.
The project will be completed in two phases. The first phase, from Summit Drive to Harold’s Branch, is expected to run through the summer, with a goal of finishing before the start of the school year. The second phase, from Hospital Drive to the Bypass Church of God, will last about one month and will begin after the first phase is complete.
Drivers should expect full closures during each phase, with detours in place. Officials say motorists should use Burchett Way for local access and take US 23 instead of US 119 for through traffic.
Transportation officials say message boards will be posted, and traffic patterns will be adjusted to help manage congestion. Limited daytime access will be maintained to some local facilities, including the health department and Mountain Comprehensive Care.
Officials are urging drivers to plan ahead, follow posted detours, and use caution in work zones.