KYTC asks public for help after increase in highway sign thefts

Paige Broyles,
A 45 mile-per-hour speed limit sign recently replaced along U.S. 60 in Livingston County disappeared within days. KYTC District 1 officials are asking the public for help in efforts to reduce highway sign theft. (Source: KYTC)
A 45 mile-per-hour speed limit sign recently replaced along U.S. 60 in Livingston County disappeared within days. KYTC District 1 officials are asking the public for help in efforts to reduce highway sign theft. (Source: KYTC)

PADUCAH, Ky. (KBSI) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) asks the public for help combating highway sign theft.

Crashes have typically been the main cause of sign loss, however, incidents of theft have been increasing, according to KYTC District 1 Engineer Kyle Poat.

KYTC asks residents to report suspicious activity. Highway signs have markings that allow their date and location of installation to be identified.

District 1 is working with police to use hidden cameras in areas where sign theft is persistent problem. Anyone caught stealing signs or caught on camera can be prosecuted, according to KYTC. Additionally, they can be held liable for injuries from the result of a crash due to a stolen sign.

A few location have had a significant number of thefts:

  • Salem and Burna area of North Livingston County
  • Parts of Graves, Marshall, and McCracken counties in the Symsonia area
  • The Blackhawk area near the Lyon and Trigg County Line

Many road departments also reported an uptick in sign thefts. The Graves County Sheriff’s Department posted a request for information of sign thefts.

Transportation officials believe there have been cases where thieves have used farm equipment to pull up signs.

In the past year KYTC has District 1 spent more than $750,000 replacing non-interstate signage in the 12-county region.

Anyone with information helps identify sign thieves can contact the Kentucky State Police Mayfield Post at 270-856-3721.

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