WINCHESTER, Ky. — The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will begin a safety improvement project next week on Boone Avenue (KY 627) in Clark County, the agency announced Thursday. The work is scheduled between mile points 6.3 and 7.6 on the busy state road that runs through Winchester.

The project is designed to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists along the corridor, with planned improvements including enhanced crosswalk markings, delineators and pavement markings. Winchester received a $20,000 grant through a safety demonstration program to support a quick-build approach to testing new designs on the roadway.

Most of the work is expected to occur along the shoulders, though temporary flagging operations may be used periodically during installation of crosswalk markings and delineators. Motorists should use caution, reduce speed and watch for personnel and equipment in the work zone, KYTC advised.

The project is being administered by the City of Winchester. Boone Avenue has long been an area of concern for city leaders. The roadway has been identified as carrying heavy truck traffic and volumes that prompted officials to seek completion of an eastern bypass project to alleviate congestion and improve safety in residential neighborhoods.

All work and closures are scheduled on a tentative basis and are subject to change depending on weather, emergencies and other factors beyond KYTC's control. For traffic updates and road conditions, motorists can visit GoKY.ky.gov.

KYTC District 7, which administers the project, oversees highway construction and maintenance in 12 central Kentucky counties including Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Fayette, Garrard, Jessamine, Madison, Mercer, Montgomery, Scott and Woodford.