US 25E Intersection with KY 233 RCUT

KNOX COUNTY, KY

TRANSPORTATION

The intersection of US 25E and KY 233 in Knox County, Kentucky had a history of frequent angle crashes, even after being signalized and equipped with advance warning flashing beacons.

Palmer Engineering, in collaboration with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), assessed the intersection and recommended a Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT) as a proven transportation safety improvement. As only the second RCUT implemented in Kentucky, this project introduced an innovative solution to reduce conflict points and enhance roadway safety.

Following the RCUT implementation, the intersection achieved a 74% reduction in total crashes and a 71% reduction in fatal and serious injury crashes, demonstrating the effectiveness of data-driven intersection improvements and collaborative planning in improving Kentucky road safety.

US 25E and KY 233 Intersection in Knox County, Kentucky.

Unique Aspects

Opportunities

· Improving Roadway Safety: The intersection faced a history of severe angle crashes, making it a high-risk location in need of a proven solution.
· Innovative Engineering Solution: Palmer Engineering introduced a Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT) — a modern intersection design that reduces conflict points and provides a safer, more effective alternative to traditional traffic signals.
Challenges

· Design Constraints: Palmer Engineering carefully balanced RCUT geometry and access needs while working within the limits of the existing right-of-way.
· Traffic Flow Adjustments: The team addressed operational impacts and supported driver adaptation to the non-traditional RCUT configuration, ensuring smooth traffic movement and long-term effectiveness.
Successes

· Enhanced Safety: The RCUT design significantly improved intersection safety by reducing conflict points and creating more predictable traffic movements.
· Accident Reduction: Following implementation, the intersection experienced a 74% reduction in total crashes and a 71% decrease in fatal and serious injury crashes, demonstrating the effectiveness of this innovative solution.