Residents urge court to require traffic study and evening hearing on proposed high-capacity truck stop

A Clark County resident urged the fiscal court to pause consideration of a proposed high-capacity truck stop and to require additional traffic and safety studies and more accessible public hearings.

Aaron Cooster, speaking for himself and the Parish Road Action Group, told the court that a vote for a truck stop "is a vote for profit over people and community values" and argued county decision-makers should rely on "truth data and not assumptions or misinformation." He said the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has final authority over access permits but that the county can and should require a thorough traffic impact study (TIS) and safety audit as conditions of any local approval.

Cooster asked that any public hearings on the project be scheduled in the evening or on weekends so residents who work daytime hours can attend. He listed community concerns including traffic safety, congestion, road maintenance costs, emergency response strain and noise impacts.

Why it matters: The proposed truck stop — referenced by commenters as a high-capacity facility similar to existing Love's locations — could produce sustained heavy truck traffic on county roads. Cooster recommended the court coordinate with local planning authorities, require a comprehensive TIS prior to action, and consult with neighboring Madison County officials about their experience.

Court response: The public comment was entered into the record; no action or vote occurred on the matter at this meeting. Officials acknowledged the request and noted KYTC’s authority over access permits, while public commenters urged additional county-level scrutiny and outreach.