The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced additional traffic changes in downtown Louisville as the I-65 Central Corridor bridge replacement and rehabilitation project moves forward. Crews are slated to finish demolition of the Broadway overpasses by October, and a signed detour is already in place for drivers.
Permanent closure of Jacob Street
When Broadway reopens, Jacob Street, which runs beneath I-65, will be closed permanently. Officials say the closure is intended to improve safety and reduce crashes on the nearby northbound I-65 off‑ramp to Broadway.
Overnight lane restrictions
Starting Wednesday, two lanes on Brook Street between College Street and Broadway will be closed through Friday. The next restriction begins Sunday, when one northbound lane of I-65 between Broadway and Jacob Street will be shut down until Friday, October 2. Finally, Gray Street under I-65 will close on Monday, Oct. 5, with an expected reopening in late November.
Hospital access remains open
Transportation officials emphasized that all downtown hospitals will stay accessible throughout the construction period. They noted that mapping applications will guide motorists to the best routes for reaching medical facilities.
Recommended detours
Drivers exiting I-65 northbound at Broadway (Exit 136A) who are not heading to Louisville Metro Government (LOUMED) facilities, including downtown hospitals and the Jefferson County Transit Authority (JCTC), should turn right onto Broadway and travel east. Clay Street can be used to continue north into the downtown core.
Areas to avoid
Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes and steer clear of the following streets while construction continues: Broadway, Brook, Chestnut, Floyd, Gray, Jacob, Muhammad Ali, and Preston.
What residents can expect
The series of lane closures and the permanent shutdown of Jacob Street are part of a broader effort to modernize the I-65 corridor, improve traffic flow, and enhance safety for both commuters and emergency responders. Residents should plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and follow posted signage and digital navigation updates.
Looking ahead
The project’s next milestones include the completion of demolition work on the Broadway overpasses by October and the reopening of Gray Street later in the year. Officials will continue to monitor traffic conditions and provide updates through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website and local news outlets.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
