Drivers in one part of Knox County may finally get some relief from a bumpy ride on a heavily traveled roadway!

This has to do with a railroad crossing just north of Barbourville on Highway 25E. It's so rough it causes drivers to go "up" instead of "across."

The signs let you know; you'd better slow down.

"You'll fly plumb out of the road. It's terrible up there," said Freddy Smith, of Barbourville.

This railroad crossing on Highway 25E has a reputation.

"We've had several complaints about it," said David Thompson, Barbourville Mayor.

Some hit the brakes, while others coast. A few just keep trucking.

Vehicles frequently go airborne! The road has been this way for a few years.

"The rear wheels of vehicles leave the ground and travel to the other side," said Thompson.

Thompson said it's not the type of greeting his city wants to give.

"Everybody coming to or from Barbourville or just passing through, it's hard on their vehicles," said Thompson.

CSX is working with the state to repair the crossing. Those supplies sit on the side of the road.

"I hope so. It would be nice, better on our vehicles too," said Smith.

Drivers like Freddy Smith anxiously await a smoother surface. It's a change from what he is used to when he travels the tracks.

"Like my car is going to fall apart," said Smith.

Railroad officials tell us they hope to begin repairs in the next two weeks. Parts of Highway 25E will have to be closed while they perform that work.

We will keep you updated on the closures.