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Council approves right-in/right-out access for Georgetown Commons; members ask KYTC for safety clarifications
Summary
The council approved a resolution supporting a developer’s petition for a right-in/right-out access point for the Georgetown Commons development; council members asked staff to pursue further safety clarifications with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet about signage, u-turns and protected turns.
The Georgetown City Council approved a resolution on March 24 supporting a developer petition for a right-in/right-out access point for the Georgetown Commons development on McClellan Circle, and members asked staff to seek additional safety clarifications from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).
Why it matters: The new access relates to a substantial bypass-area development that will add commercial and residential space near the McClellan Circle/Quality Drive area. The access point requires KYTC approval because it connects to a state highway.
What the council considered: City engineer Eddie Hightower and other staff described the request as a developer petition to KYTC for an additional cut (access) above and beyond those originally provided when the bypass was built. The council heard that KYTC will allow only a right-in/right-out at the proposed location and will not permit a left-turn access as originally requested by the developer.
Safety and signage questions: Councilmembers asked whether motorists would be allowed to make u-turns at or near the Quality Drive signal and whether a protected left turn or additional markings would be used. Staff said the state-level review handles the technical traffic decisions and that the city will ask KYTC whether a “No U-turn” designation or other signage will be required. Councilmembers asked staff to highlight safety concerns early in the state review and to bring any requested traffic-control measures to the traffic committee.
Vote and next steps: Councilmember Stone moved the resolution and Councilmember Hampton seconded; the council approved the resolution by voice vote. Staff said it will follow up with KYTC and report back to council, and encouraged council members to consider sending letters or separate resolutions if they want the state to prioritize particular safety features.
Context: The council discussion noted the proximity of the proposed access to the existing Quality Drive signal and asked for a clearer map in future materials; staff agreed to provide a highlighted map and to raise signage questions with KYTC.
Ending: Staff will contact KYTC about permitted maneuvers, signage and whether the state will provide a protected left or otherwise mark left-turn restrictions; the city may also raise the issue at the traffic committee and via formal correspondence to the state.
