CORBIN, Ky. (WYMT) - Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear traveled to eastern Kentucky this afternoon to make a big announcement about transportation in Whitley County.

Governor Beshear joined Corbin city officials in announcing changes for a major intersection along Interstate 75 in Whitley County. They said is dangerous and they want to do something about it.

Beshear joined officials and members of the public at the Corbin City Hall, where he announced a more than $1.5 million project.

Officials said the project will actually consist of widening the exit ramp and U.S. 25 W all the way down to Arena Drive. The governor and city officials said that because of the traffic flow that comes out from the arena and the hospital, it's not only going to ease the flow, it is a safety concern as well.

“It is a needed project, especially since the arena has gone in, it was not there when the original intersection was put in,” said Corbin Mayor, Willard McBurney.
“The arena has caused extra traffic, there's back ups, it's presented a safety hazard.”

Beshear said it creates “an unsafe situation.”

“It is really hurting the economic development efforts that you can do here in Corbin,” said Beshear.

McBurney said turning lanes will also be added to U.S. 25 W. Beshear said investing money in infrastructure can lead people on the road to success.

“We have got to get people to work,” said Beshear.
“If they are working, than the rest of my problems get pretty small in comparison.”

Beshear said the ability to get to work and create jobs with construction and the economic benefits help him do his job as well.

“They are paying taxes, they are making a good living and we can fund education and do all the things we need to do.”

Officials said the project should be completed by next summer.

Beshear said this was not included in the 6 year transportation plan, but they will use some federal funding to finance the project.