Improving Roadway Safety with Micro Surfacing in Hardin County, KY
This past summer, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) identified a section of the Western Kentucky Parkway near Elizabethtown that lacked adequate surface traction. They turned to Strawser Construction for a solution.
Strawser recommended a double-course Micro Surfacing treatment, enhanced with crushed trap rock to further boost friction. Working closely with KYTC, the team developed a value-engineered plan that allowed for full nighttime lane closures—cutting the project timeline in half from four days to just two nights.
Why Friction Matters
Anti-skid coatings play a critical role in reducing roadway accidents. High-friction surface treatments improve tire grip, especially in wet or high-speed conditions, helping drivers maintain control and reduce stopping distances. These coatings are especially important in areas prone to sharp curves, intersections, or high crash rates, where even a small increase in traction can mean the difference between a close call and a serious accident.
Fast, Effective Execution
Over 16,000 square yards of Micro Surfacing was placed on two westbound lanes and an I-65 ramp. A leveling course was applied the first night, followed by a high-friction surface course the next. Temporary striping was added each night, using specialized emulsions designed by Terry Asphalt Materials Inc.
Funded by federal safety dollars, this project addressed a critical safety issue. And the results speak for themselves—four months later, there had been zero reported accidents in the improved area.
This successful collaboration between KYTC and Strawser Construction highlights how innovative solutions and smart planning can make our roads safer, faster.
