TOMPKINSVILLE, Ky. — Concerns over safety at the four-way stop where the Tompkinsville Bypass intersects with Kentucky 100 have prompted discussions among local and state officials about possible changes to the intersection.

The intersection became a four-way stop in March 2022 after the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet changed the traffic pattern to improve safety.

Before the change, only traffic on Kentucky 100 was required to stop while traffic on the bypass flowed through the intersection.

In a statement to residents, James “Jamie” Comer said his office has received numerous calls, text messages and other inquiries from Monroe Countians worried about the intersection.

Because the roadway falls under state jurisdiction, Comer said he has spoken with Sen. Max Wise, Rep. Amy Neighbors and contacts within the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. He also consulted with local road builder Darren Cleary, whose business is located at the intersection.

According to Comer, officials have identified three potential options for improving safety.

The first would install a warning light and rumble strips on both the bypass and Kentucky 100 before motorists reach the four-way stop, similar to the treatment used at the intersection of Kentucky 163 and Kentucky 90. Comer said this is his preferred option but added he would support whichever solution residents favor.

The second option would construct a roundabout at the intersection.

Comer said the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet suggested the option, which he estimated would cost about $1.5 million. While he said he does not believe many Monroe County residents would support a roundabout, he said he would back the option if it receives majority support.

The third option would return the intersection to its original design as a two-way stop, with traffic on the bypass flowing freely and only Highway 100 traffic required to stop.

Comer said that configuration is common on bypasses and noted there are approximately 30 bypasses in his congressional district that operate similarly.

Comer said he plans to work with local officials, including Monroe County Judge/Executive Mitchell Page, Judge/Executive-elect Jamie Veach, Tompkinsville Mayor Michael Bowe and Monroe County Sheriff Lucas Geralds, before discussing residents’ feedback with Wise and Neighbors.

“I want the safest option for everyone who travels the bypass and Center Point Road,” Comer said in the statement.

He pointed to improvements made to Hagan’s Curve on Gamaliel Road as an example of roadway projects that have reduced crashes and saved lives.

“I think about the old Hagan’s Curve on the Gamaliel Road and how many people had accidents and died on it until the road improvement was made a few years ago,” Comer said. “Lots of lives were saved there.”

Comer said he hopes other dangerous curves and blind spots throughout Monroe County can eventually be addressed.

He encouraged residents to share their opinions by contacting his Monroe County office or messaging him directly as discussions continue.