CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is installing automated speed enforcement devices in active highway work zones that include Martin and Lawrence counties, officials announced Friday.
Among the first places to receive cameras this week and in the coming weeks are KY 3 (MP 7.314 to 13.735) at Inez and U.S. 23 at Louisa.
The devices will not be active initially, allowing drivers time to adjust to the presence of the new technology before enforcement begins in October.
“Every Kentuckian deserves to make it home safely,” KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said in a press release. “We’re hopeful this initiative will inspire drivers to be more aware of their speeds in every work zone to avoid preventable crashes and save lives.”
House Bill 664, known as the Jared Lee Helton Act, authorizes automated speed enforcement in active work zones. Passed by the legislature and signed into law by Gov. Andy Beshear earlier this year, the act honors a Kentucky highway worker who lost his life in a work zone crash.
Throughout the fall, the Cabinet expects to add speed enforcement devices in these work zones across the state:
- Lawrence/Martin counties – U.S. 23 at Louisa; KY 3 (MP 7.314 to 13.735) at Inez
- Fayette County – U.S. 25 (MP 7.805 to 9.672) and KY 418 (MP 0.000 to 1.870), Richmond/Athensboro Road at Lexington
- Shelby County – I-64 (MP 27.880 to 38.300) near Shelbyville
- Laurel/Whitley counties – I-75 (MP 23.200 to 28.900) near Corbin
KYTC may add more locations this year.
Work zones with automated enforcement will feature clear warning signs and flashing lights to alert drivers when they are approaching an area where cameras are active. Officers will be on-scene at the end to stop drivers speeding 10 mph or more over the posted limit while a worker is present.
Law enforcement officers will issue tickets in person based on detector data. Fines can be up to $500 when workers are present.
The Kentucky State Police will oversee enforcement at the initial locations for the remainder of the year.
“This is about saving lives, not writing tickets,” KSP Major Eric Walker said. “By slowing down and staying alert, drivers can protect themselves, their families, and the workers improving our roads. These cameras give us another tool to stop dangerous driving before it costs lives.”