The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has been authorized by the Federal Highway Administration to delete KY 151 (Graefenburg Road) in Anderson and Franklin counties from the National Truck Network on an emergency basis due to “safety considerations.” 

Based on FHWA’s emergency action, KYTC Secretary Greg Thomas issued an official order on April 29 that bans certain types of commercial vehicles from traveling on KY 151. 

KYTC said that a recent series of commercial vehicle crashes has “raised concerns” about continue to use KY 151 as a truck route. 

The road is regarded as a shortcut for large trucks that take it from I-64 at Exit 48 to connect with U.S. 127 in Lawrenceburg. Over 800 commercial vehicles travel KY 151 daily. 

“After a deliberate review of all safety factors and recommendations, it is incumbent upon the Cabinet to take immediate action limiting the amount of truck traffic on Graefenburg Road,” said Secretary Thomas.  “We have also met with local industry leaders and determined this action will have a minimal impact on their businesses.  I commend our partners at FHWA for expediting the order.”

KYTC stressed that since the action taken is not a final approval, the Cabinet will continue to work with FHWA “to secure the permanent removal of KY 151 from the National Truck Network. A formal notice must be posted in the Federal Register and offer a public comment period before submitting a final petition.” 

The action allows the Cabinet to temporarily ban Surface Transportation Act of 1982 (STAA) vehicles with a trailer length of 53 feet or 8 ½ feet wide from traveling on KY 151.  Commercial vehicles that fall under the size limits, such as box trucks, farm and construction vehicles, garbage trucks and local delivery vehicles, are exempt from the order. 

STAA trucks are now required to take Exit 53A off Interstate 64 to U.S. 127 south. Access to local industry along KY 151 will not be affected due to a mile allowance from U.S. 127 and I-64. 

KYTC said it is notifying regional trucking associations, local governments, local industry and law enforcement of the change in the road’s status. In addition, variable message boards and permanent signage will be established along U.S.127 and I-64 to alert motorists. 

KY 151 has been listed on the National Truck Network since 1982.  Nationwide, the Network covers more than 200,000 miles of approved interstates and state highways for large truck use.