Ashland Urban Planning Study

BOYD COUNTY, KY

TRANSPORTATION

Palmer Engineering developed a comprehensive conceptual plan for the downtown revitalization of Ashland, Kentucky, focusing on improving walkability, traffic safety, and local business opportunities. The project centered on Winchester Avenue, formerly a four-lane highway, where traffic flow, access management, and pedestrian safety were key considerations.

Palmer Engineering evaluated three design alternatives and recommended the preferred plan, known as the “Trifecta of Safety.” This innovative approach includes mini-roundabouts, a road diet, and back-in angled parking, aiming to enhance safety, reduce traffic congestion, improve roadway aesthetics, and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

The $7.1 million project is funded through a combination of state and city resources and has been recognized for excellence in engineering, receiving the ACEC Engineering Excellence Grand Conceptor Award in March 2025 along with the ASHE Bluegrass 2025 Transportation Improvement Award ($10 Million and Under). Palmer Engineering’s expertise in urban planning, traffic engineering, and civil engineering design ensures projects that benefit communities while meeting rigorous safety and operational standards.

Winchester Avenue in Ashland, Kentucky at night.

Unique Aspects

Opportunities

· Revitalization for Business Growth: The project provided a unique opportunity to enhance downtown Ashland’s appeal, attracting new businesses and supporting the local economy.
· Improved Walkability: Traffic-calming measures, including mini-roundabouts and back-in angled parking, were designed to make streets safer and more pedestrian-friendly, encouraging foot traffic and easier street crossings.
· Aesthetic Enhancements: Streetscaping and visual improvements not only elevated the downtown experience but also fostered local pride and helped make the area more attractive to residents and visitors alike.
Challenges

· Balancing Traffic Flow and Safety: Reducing Winchester Avenue from four lanes to two required careful planning to maintain smooth traffic operations while enhancing pedestrian and driver safety.
· Public Involvement and Consensus: Achieving buy-in for the preferred “Trifecta of Safety” design involved proactive coordination with residents, business owners, and local agencies to balance safety improvements with accessibility and convenience.
· Integration with Existing Infrastructure: Incorporating five mini-roundabouts and redesigned streetscapes required precise alignment with existing roadways, utilities, and traffic patterns, adding complexity to the project planning and implementation.
Successes

· Effective Public Engagement: A well-facilitated public involvement process refined the design and secured strong backing from local agencies, ensuring community alignment and project success.
· Enhanced Safety: Implementation of mini-roundabouts, a road diet, and traffic-calming measures significantly improved safety for pedestrians and drivers, reducing accident risks.
· Functional and Visual Improvements: The project seamlessly combined streetscaping with safety enhancements, boosting both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of downtown Ashland, making it more inviting for residents, visitors, and businesses.
· Awards: 2025 ACEC Engineering Excellence Grand Conceptor Award;
2025 Transportation Improvement Award ($10 Million and Under)– ASHE Bluegrass;
2025 Quality of Life/Community Development Small Project Award presented to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet by SASHTO