The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is gearing up for roadside mowing season, which stretches from May to October. State and contract crews will complete three mowing cycles, including litter removal on interstates, parkways and other primary routes throughout the state.

KYTC officials ask Kentuckians to do their part by keeping the state right of way clear of temporary signs and other obstacles that can obstruct the path of mowers and pose a hazard for mowing crews and motorists.

Kentucky law and Transportation Cabinet policy prohibit the placement of non-official signs of any type – for campaigns, yard sales or other advertising – on state highway right of way, utility poles, fences and guardrails or on road signs. Depending on size and construction, illegally placed signs are a distraction and can be a safety issue for motorists when blocking the view of oncoming vehicles.

Illegally-placed signs also can disrupt or endanger right-of-way operations such as mowing, ditch cleaning and litter removal, and can pose a direct safety hazard to motorists who run off the roadway – particularly when installed with large wooden or metal stakes.

Campaign signs and other signs placed on state right of way that restrict sight distance or interfere with mowing and maintenance operations will be removed by KYTC crews. Signs that are removed will be held at the state highway garage in each county of KYTC District 8 and kept for two weeks. Unclaimed signs will be discarded.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet asks that motorists use extra caution when traveling through these work zones.

Traffic information for the District 8 counties is also available at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 or by following us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.