Traffic on a portion of US 41 in Henderson is expected to shift on to new roadway (future I-69) beginning today. Crews are moving traffic to make way for continued progress on Section 1 of the I-69 Ohio River Crossing.
The shift will happen in two phases with northbound traffic moving to the new alignment first and southbound traffic expected to follow a week later. The shift will take place just north of the KY 351/2nd Street exit. This is the first large section of new roadway that drivers have started using since the start of construction in summer 2022.
According to a release from officials with teh Ohio River Crossing (ORX) project, US 41 North is scheduled to be reduced to one lane between KY 351/2nd Street and US 60 beginning May 29. The lane closure is expected to begin Wednesday evening. Crews will be tying in the existing US 41 alignment to the new alignment. Both lanes are expected to be open to traffic on the new roadway (future I-69) by Sunday afternoon.
The release says drivers will shift to the east to use the future I-69 roadway to drive over three new overpass bridges (Van Wyk, Canoe Creek, and the future US 41 interchange) to rejoin US 41. Drivers are encouraged to slow down, stay alert and watch for new traffic patterns. Actual dates and anticipated work may be adjusted if inclement weather or other unforeseen activities occur.
The two lanes of traffic on US 41 South will remain in their current configuration until the following week, according to the release. US 41 South is expected to be reduced to one lane between KY 351/2nd Street and US 60 beginning June 7. Both lanes are expected to open to traffic on the new roadway (future I-69) by the afternoon of June 11.
Once the shift is complete and both US 41 North and South traffic are using the new roadway, crews will be able to complete needed road and bridge work in the area and build the new Kimsey Lane connection over to Van Wyk Road and complete the Merrill Trail Extension.
The I-69 ORX is the “key final connection” of I-69 between Evansville and Henderson, according to the ORX website. It will provide interstate cross-river connectivity that will reduce traffic congestion and delays while improving safety for drivers.
The project is divided into three sections for construction and project delivery:
Section 1: Kentucky
I-69 ORX Section 1 is the approach work in Kentucky with improvements in Henderson extending from KY 425 to US 60. KYTC is overseeing ORX Section 1. Nine new bridges are being built and seven bridges are being rehabilitated as part of the new I-69 in Henderson. New US 41 overpass bridges are being built at KY 351. The new bridges are being built at the same location, with the bridges remaining open to traffic throughout construction. Construction started in early June 2023 and is expected to be completed by Spring 2025.
Section 2: I-69 Bridge
I-69 ORX Section 2 is a bi-state project between Indiana and Kentucky and includes the new four-lane river crossing. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 and be complete by 2031. Both states are looking for opportunities to accelerate the timeline.
Section 3: Indiana
I-69 ORX Section 3 is the approach work in Indiana with design development continuing. Construction is expected to begin in 2024 and be complete in 2026.
