Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Public Meeting Update: Marion County East Lebanon Connector

Presented alternative now selected for final design.

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (Jan. 31, 2025) – Plans to extend the Lebanon Bypass (KY 2154) from KY 55 to US 68 east of Lebanon are moving forward after public input.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet would like to thank those that took time to attend the Public Information Meeting held at Center Square Gym on August 20th, 2024 or visited the project website to complete a questionnaire. Three alternatives for the new roadway were presented as well as proposed safety improvements along KY 55. With feedback from stakeholders and the public, the project team analyzed costs, benefits and impacts of each option. The following selections are chosen for final design:

  • Bypass Extension – The project team has determined a hybrid combination of the Central/South Alternatives will reduce impacts and best meet the needs and goals of the project.

  • KY 55/KY 3155 Intersection Improvements – The Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT) alternative was selected.  This type of intersection simplifies decision-making for drivers and minimizes potential for higher severity crashes.

The project also includes plans for constructing roundabouts at KY 55, the connector road to Corporate Drive and at the intersection of US 68. This alternative will realign and replace positions of Barber’s Mill Road (KY1404) and will have a connection to Knight’s Way on the North side of the Marion County High School Campus.

To view the entire corridor and planned improvements, visit eastleb.com.

This project will now move into the final design phase which includes completion of environmental analysis. Depending on available funding, the purchase of right of way could begin in late 2025.

For educational information on Roundabouts, RCUTs and other innovative highway designs – including fact sheets, diagrams, and video overviews – visit the KYTC SAFERoad Solutions Website:  transportation.ky.gov/saferoadsolutions.

(Chris Jessie – KYTC- District 4)