The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is set to enhance safety in highway work zones by installing automated speed enforcement devices. The initiative, which begins today and will continue over the next few weeks, aims to protect both drivers and construction crews. Initial installations will occur in a U.S. 25 work zone in Fayette County and an I-75 work zone near Corbin.
KYTC Secretary Jim Gray expressed hope that the new technology would encourage drivers to be more mindful of their speeds, thereby reducing preventable crashes. “Every Kentuckian deserves to make it home safely,” Gray said.
This move follows the passing of House Bill 664, known as the Jared Lee Helton Act, which permits automated speed enforcement in active work zones. Named after a highway worker who died in a work zone accident, the bill was signed into law by Governor Andy Beshear earlier this year. Representative John Blanton, who sponsored the bill, emphasized its importance for saving lives: “We’ve lost too many Kentuckians in work zone crashes, including Jared.”
Chad LaRue from the Kentucky Association of Highway Contractors highlighted the risks faced by workers due to speeding traffic and supported the installation of these devices as a measure for safer working conditions.
Additional installations are planned throughout Kentucky this fall. These include locations in Martin County on KY 3 at Inez, Fayette County on U.S. 25 and KY 418 at Lexington, Shelby County on I-64 near Shelbyville, and Laurel/Whitley Counties on I-75 near Corbin.
Work zones with these devices will have clear warning signs and flashing lights. Tickets will be issued only by law enforcement officers based on detector data, with fines reaching up to $500 when workers are present. The Kentucky State Police will manage enforcement at initial sites through the end of the year.
“This is about saving lives, not writing tickets,” said KSP Major Eric Walker. He noted that slowing down and staying alert can protect everyone involved—drivers and road workers alike.
For further details about this program, visit kyhighwaysafety.com/wzs.
Information from this article can be found here.
