Graves Road / I-275 Interchange Design Build

BOONE COUNTY, KY

TRANSPORTATION

Palmer Engineering is the Lead Design Consultant for the Graves Road reconstruction project, which includes a new Double Crossover Diamond (DCD) Interchange for I-275. Awarded in August 2019, the project involves widening Graves Road, improving KY 20 and KY 237, and constructing a bridge over I-275. Palmer worked on roadway, structural, and traffic signal design while facilitating utility coordination and utility relocation planning. The project was fast-tracked to open the DCD interchange by October 2020. Despite challenges with right-of-way acquisition and the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was completed in August 2022.

Unique Aspects

Opportunities

· Design Innovation: The project presented an opportunity for Palmer to work on the innovative DCD interchange design, replacing a standard diamond interchange, which was essential for improving traffic flow and safety, along with the reconstruction of a dual lane roundabout at KY 237.
· Fast-Tracking Construction: The accelerated timeline offered Palmer a chance to showcase their ability to fast-track design and construction, meeting the ambitious goal of opening the DCD interchange within a year.
· Utility Coordination: Palmer’s role in utility coordination allowed the team to minimize delays and keep the project on schedule, ensuring a smoother construction process.
Challenges

· Complex Design Approval Process: The change from a rural diamond interchange to a DCD required Palmer to work closely with KYTC and FHWA to gain the necessary approvals, adding complexity to the design process.
· Utility Relocation Coordination: Managing the relocation of multiple utility systems (water, sewer, electric, etc.) and handling agreements with various utility companies was a significant challenge, requiring innovative solutions and detailed planning.
· Right-of-Way Acquisition: Securing property and managing 65 parcels, including overcoming challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, slowed down the process of acquiring necessary land without delaying construction.
Successes

· On-Schedule Completion: Despite the challenges, Palmer’s coordination and design work helped keep the project on track, with the Graves Road interchange opening to traffic by October 2020.
· Efficient Utility Management: Palmer’s proactive management of utility relocations minimized disruptions and enabled construction to proceed smoothly.
· Effective Right-of-Way Management: The aggressive prioritization of key parcels and coordination with property owners allowed the team to overcome the challenges of acquiring right-of-way during the pandemic and keep the project on schedule.
· Awards: ACEC Grand Award (2023), ACEC National Award (2023), ASHE Great Lakes Award (2022), ASHE Bluegrass Award (2022)