A revamped interchange that opened last fall at Harrodsburg and New Circle roads in Lexington has won a regional award.

The U.S. 68 double-crossover diamond, as the project is called, was recognized for best use of innovation, small project, in the America's Transportation Awards competition.

The redesign, which eliminates left turns across traffic, has reduced congestion and cut the number of crashes nearly in half along that portion of Harrodsburg Road.

It is the first double-crossover diamond in the state and one of just six in the nation, but the state Transportation Cabinet plans to use the design at two other places, and others are being considered.

The William H. Natcher Parkway Extension project in Bowling Green was a winner in the competition, in the ahead of schedule category, medium project.

"I am very proud of our project teams and gratified that their fine work has been recognized outside our commonwealth," Kentucky Transportation Secretary Mike Hancock said in a news release. "Innovative designs and timely completion of projects are indispensable as we work to deliver a quality highway program for the citizens of Kentucky."

Karla Ward: (859) 231-3314. Twitter: @HLpublicsafety.