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Frequently Asked Questions
- Where do I get a copy of the FONSI and the bridge proposal?
A copy of the FONSI and the bridge proposal is available on the website, www.lakebridges.com, and at the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 1 office.
- When was the FONSI completed? What were the basic findings?
The final FONSI was completed in September 2006, and approved on October 24, 2006.
Section 1.4 "Summary of Purpose and Need" now reads: "
In summary, the proposed project is needed to correct numerous geometric deficiencies of the existing roadway and the two major bridges (Eggner's Ferry and Lawrence Memorial Bridges over the Tennessee and the Cumberland Rivers, respectively). The project is also needed to support the Southwestern Kentucky Region's economic development efforts, which are tied to having a safe and convenient roadway that connects to the regional transportation network.
- What relationship do the bridges have with the 4-lane work?
The planning, design and construction process for the bridges is taking place separately from the 4-lane work. However, both projects will be compatible and when complete, will provide a continuous four lane route across both lakes, the Land Between the Lakes and ultimately from Cadiz to Mayfield.
- Who is paying for the bridges?
The bridges will be paid for with a combination of state and federal funding.
- Will the bridges be identical?
Yes, the bridge types across both lakes will be identical. During the first public information meeting, participants were asked if the bridges should be similar. Seventy-Two percent (72%) of the participants preferred that the bridges be similar.
- What impact will the 4-lane work and the bridge work have on traffic flow?
The existing bridges will remain operational during construction of the new bridges. Local residents should expect periodic delays during certain phases of construction. However, the construction of the bridges will not result in long-term delays or closures.
- Will the existing causeways remain?
The preservation of the existing causeways is still being determined as part of the design process. If new causeways are used they will be larger in width and height than the existing to accommodate the requirements of the new bridge design.
- What fishing facilities will be incorporated?
The USFWS is involved in the planning and design process to ensure that the concerns of the fishing community are addressed during the planning, design and construction of the new bridges.
- Will any boating activities be disrupted?
Similar to the impact on automobile traffic, day-to-day boating activities are not expected to be disrupted. However, due to the nature of the bridge construction process, navigation in and around the bridges may be temporarily impacted during phases of the construction process.
- When does work start?
It is estimated that work on the bridges will begin in 2013.
- When will they be completed?
The typical timeframe for constructing bridges of this scale is 2 years. The overall timeframe for this project may vary depending on whether the bridges are constructed at the same time or in sequence.
- What will be done to ensure the bridges are safe from earthquakes?
The new bridges will be designed to current seismic and safety standards.
- Will 18-wheelers be allowed to use the bridges during construction?
The existing bridges will remain operational during construction of the new bridges. 18-wheeler traffic should expect periodic delays during certain phases of construction. However, the construction of the bridges will not result in long-term delays or closures.
- How was the bridge type for the new bridges over Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake selected?
The Bridge Type Selection Process was a three round process that included extensive public outreach in addition to Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) meetings. At the end of the process, “final” bridge alternatives were selected based on information pertaining to historic and regional context, public input and cost and engineering feasibility, among other things. Based upon the aforementioned, KYTC selected the Basket-Handle Tied Arch Bridge for both lakes.
- Who are the Citizen Advisory Committee?
The role of the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) is to provide feedback about design concepts for the bridges over Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake. CAC members represent key communities, government agencies and stakeholder groups in the project area. Their presence lends an expertise and a localized community perspective.
Click here for Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC).
- What is a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)?
A DBE is a minority-owned, woman-owned or small business that has been certified by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program regulations. These regulations require that a DBE initiative be included in the Lake Bridges Project. These regulations can be found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 26 (www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_04/49cfr26_04.html).
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