By Dave Niinemets
Enquirer contributor

COVINGTON - After 20 years of complications, holdups and struggle, there will finally be some progress in the effort to widen 12th Street.

According to City Manager Greg Jarvis, residents, motorists and businesses can expect the first movement toward widening the city artery, also known at Ky. 1120, sometime in 2003.

A mitigation committee meeting was held two weeks ago to discuss a plan and that plan is expected to be refined over the coming months.

"If all goes well, they'll possibly begin property acquisition negotiations about a year from now," said Mr. Jarvis. Construction on the new road may come by 2006.

That sounds good to Joe Lubbers. A resident of 12th and Lee for 42 years, his property is one of about 50 that will need to be eliminated on the south side of 12th Street to make way for the two new lanes. He has worked with other residents and city and state officials to come to a plan that satisfies everyone.

"It seems like they're finally getting it in gear," said Mr. Lubbers. "People around here have kind of had their hands tied for the past 10 years, so we want to see it happen."

Mr. Lubbers tried to sell his home eight years ago but once the buyer found out it may end up being razed, he backed out of the deal. Until an offer is made to acquire the property, owners like Mr. Lubbers are stuck waiting.

One of the big hang-ups has been the effect the new 12th Street would have on the city's historic districts. Mr. Jarvis and Mr. Lubbers both feel the mitigation committee's latest plan will satisfy those concerned. An environmental assessment is expected from the committee in February as well.

Mr. Lubbers said residents are suggesting a number of ideas to incorporate with the widening. They would like to see a bike trail separate from the street, grants for facade improvements on the remaining properties on the north side and underground utilities. These options will all be considered in the coming months.

Another suggestion is to create a business zone between Lee Street and Russell Street.

"If you have 20,000 cars passing here every day, some of them will stop to go to businesses," said Mr. Lubbers.

A recent study determined that 20,000 vehicles use the street each day. Many have trouble passing one another because it is so narrow. It's especially difficult for trucks. Mr. Lubbers said one can see the problem just by looking at the number of side mirrors clipped off parked cars by passing traffic.

"I think it's getting worse," said Mr. Jarvis. "And from talking to the businesses and residents in that area, I think they'd agree."

Another mitigation committee meeting is planned for April to come to more conclusions on the project. A public hearing will also be held in May.

Project manager Mike Bezold of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet was unavailable for comment on cost and timetable for the project.

"I think from a number of perspectives, it would be a positive," said Mr. Jarvis. "Mostly to remove the uncertainty that has been there for decades."

E-mail cschroeder@enquirer.com