Rain, High Water, Slow Highway Work

Officials reported that work on replacing the flood gates at the impoundment under Washington Avenue had halted due to high water.

Nearly a half inch of rain that fell in the first few days of March helped raise the water level in the old riverbed that drains Panbowl Lake enough to overtop the temporary coffer dam built to protect the workers and the work.

As levels rose, the pumps designed to drain Panbowl Lake were stopped to preserve the construction that had been completed.  Residents around the lake reported higher-than-normal water levels and numerous flooded or covered docks.

Officials with Triton Construction Company last week reported that they believe the last blast occurred on Wednesday, February 25.  They reported on Tuesday that “one or two more blasts” might be needed to complete that portion of the major cut for the new roadway.

There were cautions to note that an additional shot may be needed near the mouth of the old Lakeside Drive, as more dirt has been moved from that area.

 The work on the East side will replace the bulkhead and culvert that allows water to drain from the old riverbed into the North Fork of the Kentucky River at the “Cut Through.”  The work will also install a new automatic floodgate system on the West side of the roadway near the former site of the Breathitt County Schools Bus Garage.

The roadway will also be expanded to include turning lanes, sidewalks, and lighting.

Water continued to pour over the temporary earthen structure into the work area on Tuesday.

Thick mud also stopped work on other areas of the construction site along Highway 15.

Crews will return to the area once the water level recedes and it is deemed safe for workers to resume work.

Officials believe that the new roadway will be completed and opened in 2027.