Scott-Greenup highway relocation begins in Covington neighborhoods

The city of Covington, Kentucky, has commenced the process of rerouting a state highway away from several densely populated neighborhoods. This initiative aims to improve safety in residential areas by relocating Ky. 17 from Scott and Greenup streets to Madison Avenue.

Riegler Blacktop is currently engaged in curb repairs and other minor concrete work on Scott and Greenup streets between 12th and 20th streets as part of the initial phase of this conversion project. City Manager Ken Smith stated, "Finally, this long-discussed and long-planned conversion is coming to fruition." He emphasized that the project will enhance safety for pedestrians, children playing, people getting in and out of parked cars, and bicyclists.

Currently, Scott Boulevard and Greenup Street operate as a one-way couplet carrying Ky. 17 traffic from 20th Street to the Roebling Suspension Bridge across the Ohio River. The plan is to shift Ky. 17 westward to Madison Avenue between 20th and 12th streets. This change follows recommendations from neighborhood leaders dating back to 2016.

Assistant Public Works Director Bill Matteoli outlined the details of the work being undertaken: crews are fixing curbs along Scott and Greenup while preparing bases for new light poles on Madison Avenue. Future tasks include installing ADA ramps where needed, updating signage, resurfacing all three streets between 12th and 20th streets likely by summer, replacing traffic signals with stop signs at certain intersections, and maintaining most parking spaces.

In addition to this conversion project, a separate resurfacing effort by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is planned for Ky. 17 from Latonia Avenue to Greenup Street. The start date for this project will be announced once scheduled.

The Kentucky General Assembly initially allocated $2.5 million for the conversion project during its 2022 session; however, costs have risen to $3.66 million due to additional requirements such as signal upgrades on Madison Avenue.

This transformation stems from discussions among local neighborhood groups who aim to calm traffic while improving walkability and development opportunities within business districts. In response to these concerns raised since at least 2016 by leaders representing Austinburg, Helentown Levassor Park Wallace Woods neighborhoods—the city hired Planning Development Services Kenton County guide study craft plan north-south corridors—resulting draft presented March open house attended about seventy-five residents showing interest weighing proposals according Economic Development Director Tom West new setup expected encourage investment creating environments flourishing businesses attracting homeowners rehabbing structures enhancing overall quality life place beyond mere safety improvements