What is the South Street Underpass project? 

The South Street Underpass will connect HWY 42 to downtown Louisville via a pedestrian underpass. The design will focus on being easy to use, attractive, and affordable to build and maintain.

Through the City of Louisville’s investment in health, wellness, and community interaction, this community infrastructure project will support a goal of increasing users and economic development in the area. Circulation and aesthetic improvements for bicycles, pedestrians and other alternative transportation modes will result in increased users and community events, while also preparing for an anticipated light rail stop in the Delo neighborhood.

Where did this idea come from?

This project is a collaborative effort of the Louisville City Council, Louisville Revitalization Committee, and City Staff. Using extensive community feedback received as part of the Future 42 project, the project team worked with RE:LAND, Kimley Horn, and Otak to create concepts for improved circulation, use, and economic development conditions in this area of Louisville. The project was approved by City Council as part of the 2025 Capital Improvement Project budget.

What is the current status of this project?

City Council directed staff to re-engage area residents and businesses and provide design options that will create this pedestrian connection without closing any existing roads to vehicular traffic. The City expects to present two new design concepts to City Council in early 2026.