Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Traffic Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Nicholasville moves to restrict commercial vehicles on residential streets to reduce neighborhood cut-throughs
Summary
The commission approved ordinance 173-2024 to direct commercial vehicle traffic to state and federal routes and prohibit routine use of residential streets except for necessary access; police and staff said the change will make enforcement easier than naming streets individually.
Nicholasville commissioners on Nov. 18 approved ordinance 173-2024, a code change intended to reduce large‑vehicle traffic on neighborhood streets by directing commercial vehicles to state and federal routes when practical while preserving access when a business or delivery requires it.
City staff and Police Chief Fleming told the commission residents had complained about trucks using residential cut‑throughs. Chief Fleming explained the amendment simplifies enforcement by removing the need for the commission to list each prohibited street and instead using a rules‑based restriction with access exceptions for businesses and construction activity. Commissioners noted the ordinance does not eliminate necessary access: construction-related truck traffic and deliveries to local businesses would remain permitted.
Supporters said the change will also remove duplicative ordinance language that currently exists in two places in the code, reducing confusion. Commissioners discussed the possibility of a separate ordinance or a follow-up listing of particularly problematic streets in situations where enforcement or signage is desired.
The commission moved, seconded, and approved the ordinance by roll call during the special meeting. Next steps identified by staff included publication of the revised code language and coordination with police and public works on enforcement and signage where needed.
