2025 GM on Main Grant Award
Scottsville spoke. We listened.
With the support of the GM on Main Grant Program, we’re building safer sidewalks downtown through raised table crossings - designed to slow traffic, enhance pedestrian safety, and preserve the charm we all love.
Raising the Standard for Safety
What’s happening?
Heart of Scottsville was awarded $60,000 from the GM on Main Grant Program to fund an innovative transportation project that will improve the safety, accessibility, and vibrancy of our historic commercial district.
The primary goal of this project is to encourage motorists to slow down as they approach the crosswalks in the Scottsville Public Square, ensuring they have both the time and awareness to look for pedestrians.
Currently, drivers tend to accelerate after passing the four-way stop, often without realizing a crosswalk lies ahead.
To address this pedestrian hazard, the Heart of Scottsville is proposing to install Kentucky’s first raised table crosswalks on a state road - a groundbreaking initiative that could set a precedent for pedestrian safety improvements across the Commonwealth!
Why Raised Table Crossings?
First, unlike speed bumps, they’re designed for smooth crossing at low speeds. This slows traffic for safety, but doesn’t stop the flow. (Think of the crossings at the Nashville airport, for example.)
Second, raised table crossings are ADA-compliant and pedestrian-friendly. By ensuring a level crossing with sidewalks, raised crosswalks are more walkable for parents with strollers and folks using wheelchairs.
Community Voices Inspired This.
We heard your concerns about pedestrian safety and observed firsthand the dangers that accompany our unique traffic flow downtown. (Drivers simply aren’t trained to look for crosswalks upon exiting a four-way stop.)
There were some challenges in finding a solution, though…
Two state roads converge on our public square, so we needed to find an affordable solution that works within the Department of Transportation’s parameters. There were lots of collaborative meetings with local officials and DOT representatives leading up to the discovery of the raised table solution.
Once we all agreed on a plan, Heart of Scottsville spent several years searching for funds to complete this project. GM on Main provided the perfect partnership and we are so excited to see this progress!
Construction Timeline & Traffic Plan.
1 - The first step will be to secure contracts with engineering and construction vendors.
2 - Once contracts are complete, we’ll begin the process of obtaining an encroachment permit from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
3 - Then we’ll be able to provide an exact construction timeline and traffic plan.
For now, we can say we expect construction to begin in August and end no later than September.
We will post updates regularly as schedules are finalized.
We’re Listening.
We welcome your input and appreciate your support as we build a safer, smarter downtown.
Please check out our FAQs section below for answers to some of the more common concerns. If you have any feedback or additional questions, please contact us using the form below.
FAQs
What is a raised table crossing?
A raised table crossing is a flat-topped, extended crosswalk that is elevated to sidewalk height. It slows vehicles while providing a safer, smoother surface for pedestrians, wheelchairs, strollers, and bikes. Unlike traditional speed bumps, it is gradual and wide.
Why are we installing these downtown?
Our community identified pedestrian safety as a top concern. These crossings are a proven solution to reduce vehicle speed in high-foot-traffic areas, lower accident risk, and increase walkability - especially near businesses and civic spaces.
Will this affect traffic or my commute?
During construction, there may be some short-term lane closures and detours. We’ll share detailed traffic maps and alternative routes on our website and social media to help you plan ahead. Once completed, traffic will still flow - just more calmly and safely.
Will emergency vehicles be delayed?
No. These crossing are designed with emergency response access in mind. They are safe and manageable for ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles.
Are these ADA compliant?
Yes. Raised table crossings improve accessibility for all pedestrians including those using mobility aids, wheelchairs, or pushing strollers.
Is this a speed bump?
Not exactly. Speed bumps are abrupt and typically used in parking lots or private roads. Raised tables are longer, gently sloped, and designed for Main Street environments where both traffic and pedestrians interact.
How is this project being funded?
The project is funded through the GM on Main Street grant, with no cost to local businesses or restaurants.
Dear Jocelyn Fykes, Grant Writer + Board VP
On behalf of the entire Heart of Scottsville family - and the countless pedestrians who will walk more safely through our downtown because of this work - thank you.
Your dedication, attention to detail, and incredible talent as a grant writer helped bring the GM on Main award home to Scottsville. This is more than just infrastructure. It’s a visible, lasting sign that our community’s voice matters - and you helped make that possible.
Thank you for believing in this vision, for bringing your gifts to the table, and for always showing up with grace and grit. We are so proud to have you as our Vice President, and so grateful to walk beside you in this work.
With heartfelt thanks,
Hannah Allston Brooks
Executive Director, Heart of Scottsville
We’re Listening.
Please share your thoughts, concerns, and questions.