BENTON – A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to start initial prep work on reconstruction of the Purchase Parkway/KY 348 Exit 43 Interchange at Benton in Marshall County on Monday, April 6.
Initial activities will include clearing brush to prepare for start of construction of two bridges to be built for new ramps on the north side of KY 348. This initial work will be away from traffic off on the right of way with no traffic restrictions and is not expected to have any impact on Tater Day events despite increased traffic flow in the area.
The interchange and about a 1 mile section of the parkway will be reconstructed from the old toll booth cloverleaf ramp arrangement to a modern diamond interchange.
This project to bring the interchange up to current FHWA standards is among about 10 major projects totaling $260 million aimed at allowing Interstate 69 to be extended southward along the Purchase Parkway and northward along the Pennyrile Parkway.
This reconstruction work will continue to escalate through the summer months. We will attempt to provide timely updates when construction activities may impact traffic flow.
Motorists should use appropriate caution where equipment, flaggers, and personnel are along the roadway in close proximity to traffic flow.