Interstate 65 in Kentucky is getting a new addition, one that will benefit Owensboro.
Using the riverport in Owensboro as a backdrop, local, state and federal officials Friday announced that after many years of trying, the city will finally be connected to an interstate, through the designation of a section of the William Natcher Parkway as a future I-65 spur. The route will cover the 70 miles from Bowling Green to Owensboro.
With the announcement in June of a joint project to get an I-69 bridge built over the Ohio River at Henderson, Friday’s announcement means the state is making significant infrastructure investments in western Kentucky, according to governor Matt Bevin.
“We are looking for where we can get the best bang for the buck, and western Kentucky will give all of Kentucky a great bang for the buck, in terms of infrastructure projects. There’s no question in my mind, so it’s not the first time nor will it be the last time that I will be out here, cutting ribbons, making announcements and unveiling things for infrastructure projects in western Kentucky.”
The governor noted the designation of interstate spur will make Owensboro companies easier to market to businesses around the country. With the designation, work can begin to determine what upgrades need to be made to bring the Natcher Parkway up to interstate standards.
