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Abstract

A reduced conflict U-turn (RCUT) intersection eliminates left-turn and through movements from the minor road. Instead, drivers must turn right onto the main road and complete a U-turn at a downstream median opening. Recognized by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) as a proven safety countermeasure, RCUT intersections have reduced fatal and injury crashes 22 – 63%. Despite more than 35 RCUT intersections in operation across Kentucky, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) lacked specific guidance for their planning, design, construction, and operation.

This project, conducted by the Kentucky Transportation Center (KTC) in cooperation with KYTC, addressed this gap through a comprehensive literature review of national and state-level RCUT best practices, an evaluation of existing Kentucky RCUT intersections, including a before-and-after crash analysis at 13 locations, interviews with KYTC District and Central Office staff, and interviews with staff at four state departments of transportation experienced in RCUT implementation.

Research informed development of Kentucky-specific RCUT guidance that covers planning and site selection, geometric design, accommodations for all road users, pavement markings and signing, signalization, construction, and maintenance. When used in conjunction with the KYTC intersection control evaluation (ICE) process, this guidance supports a systematic, evidence-based approach to intersection improvements that maximizes returns on public investment while prioritizing the safety of all road users on Kentucky's transportation network.

Report Date

8-2026

Report Number

KTC-26-29

Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.13023/ktc.rr.2026.29

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