FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 18, 2016) - Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Secretary Greg Thomas today issued official orders to raise the speed limit from 55 to 65 mph on portions of U.S. 45 and U.S. 641 in Calloway, Graves, Marshall and McCracken counties. The move comes after local officials and public stakeholders petitioned the Cabinet to increase the speed limit for economic and mobility improvements throughout the region. The speed limit was increased only after Cabinet engineers analyzed speed studies and traffic data for these sections. "The Cabinet has reviewed all factors and determined that raising the speed limit is a safe and reasonable application for this particular stretch of highway" said Sec. Thomas. "I want to commend Reps. Kenny Imes and Richard Heath for their hard work and persistence on moving this forward." The speed limit will be raised on U.S.45 from KY 1241 at mile marker 21 in Graves County to the 32 mile marker on KY 1241 in McCracken County near Lone Oak. On U.S. 641, the limit will be raised from KY 1824 in Calloway County to KY 58 near the Purchase Parkway in Marshall County. There will be points along the routes where the speed limit will be reduced to 55 mph due to signalized intersections. "After several years of work, I'm glad to see the speed limit on U.S. 45 and U.S. 641 raised from 55 to 65," said Rep. Richard Heath, of Mayfield. "This speed limit increase will help our regional economic development from a multitude of angles. When this stretch comes up on GPS as a 65 mph zone, tourists, travelers, and businesses will be more inclined to travel the route. While running for office, Governor Bevin said this would be a priority, and I appreciate him fulfilling that promise." "After three years of work, this speed limit increase is a shining example of how Western Kentucky is moving forward," said Rep. Kenny Imes, of Murray. "This increase will be another tool in our arsenal to bring industry and manufacturing to our area as it increases the on-time delivery of goods. It will also lure more students to Murray State as the region becomes more easily accessible. I respect and appreciate Governor Bevin fulfilling his commitment to this project." The orders are effective immediately. KYTC crews will be out in force this week to replace signage along the routes. Motorists are encouraged to use caution during the installation period and be aware of signage, road crews and other drivers.
