Published: June 15, 2008 11:28 pm      

Road improvements to begin next week at Grayson Lake

Grayson — Tourists and others traveling around Grayson Lake State Park may expect a few delays during the next four months as highway improvement projects get under way this month.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s project at Grayson Lake State Park is aimed at enhancing the roadway for campers, golfers and others visiting the park in Carter County.

Officials at ASL Excavating Inc., which won the $892,000 bid to improve the park approach road, say they expect construction to begin the week of June 23.

The summer-long effort will include excavation, widening the existing roadway and building new, straighter sections of road from the park entrance to the golf course. A dedicated right-turn lane will also be added on Ky. 7 at the park entrance.

“Whether commuting to and from work or engaging in tourist activities, people use our roadways for a variety of reasons and we are dedicated to enhancing their use whenever possible,” Transportation Secretary Joe Prather said. “This project will allow motorists, especially those with larger vehicles such as RVs, to more safely access Grayson Lake’s recreational facilities.”

During daytime construction work, motorists will encounter warning signs and one-lane traffic controlled by flaggers in work zones. The road will remain open at night to accommodate park visitors, however, travel will be on gravel surfaces at times.

Transportation officials advise motorists to “Drive Smart” in work zones and remain aware of workers, traffic control devices and construction equipment. Park users should also exercise caution when walking near work sites.