The I‑69 Ohio River Crossing (ORX) project strengthens one of the region’s most important transportation links by extending I‑69 from south of Evansville, Indiana, across the Ohio River to southeast of Henderson, Kentucky. This corridor, formerly the Pennyrile Parkway and now designated US 41, is the only Ohio River crossing between the two cities, with alternative bridges located 30 miles east and 70 miles west. As part of this transformative program, STV led the redesign of the KY 351 interchange, which provides direct access into downtown Henderson. The solution replaced an outdated partial cloverleaf configuration with a modern triple‑roundabout interchange.
What challenges did STV address?
The existing KY 351 and KY 2084 interchanges no longer met operational needs or federal interstate standards. The adjacent intersection of KY 351 and KY 2084 also presented safety issues, and the proximity of two schools required careful consideration of traffic movement and bus routing. The new I‑69 alignment also needed to fit within existing right‑of‑way while minimizing impacts to nearby neighborhoods and properties.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV developed a tight diamond interchange design that incorporates three modern roundabouts to manage all ramp intersections and replace the KY 351/KY 2084 intersection. The I‑69 alignment shifts west within the existing right‑of‑way, reducing property impacts. To support stakeholder engagement, STV created a detailed 3D model and a virtual reality (VR) simulation that helped the public, property owners and the Henderson Planning Commission visualize traffic movements, pedestrian routes and gateway aesthetics. The VR model also helped the School Board evaluate bus operations, with two schools located within 500 feet of the interchange.
How does this project benefit the community?
The triple‑roundabout configuration improves safety by eliminating weaving, reducing conflict points and enhancing operations at the key gateway into Henderson. The new interchange supports efficient regional travel, better accommodates school traffic and strengthens long‑term connectivity within the growing I‑69 corridor.
Key stats and accolades
- Three modern roundabouts
- Two schools located within 500 feet of the interchange
- 30 and 70 miles to alternative Ohio River crossings
- VR model used for public outreach and school traffic planning
- New I‑69 alignment shifted west to reduce right‑of‑way impacts
