On Tuesday, June 20th, Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), in conjunction with the City of Pikeville, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of “Burchett Way,” the city’s newest street.
Burchett Way runs from Hambley Boulevard through PMC’s Riverfill parking area to Bypass Road directly in front of the hospital. Now, patients, visitors, employees, and those traveling throughout Pikeville will benefit from improved accessibility and enhanced transportation within the city. The street’s strategic location will help alleviate traffic congestion, streamline commuting routes and contribute to more efficient transit, an added convenience for patients, visitors, employees, and those traveling throughout Pikeville.
Planning for the new road has been in the works for several months and was coined “Burchett Way” in honor of Ron Burchett, who has committed his entire adult life to serving others. Burchett has served on the Board of Directors at Pikeville Medical Center for 30 years, where he served as chairman from 2018-2023. In addition to his service to PMC, Burchett spent nearly 40 years as Assistant Pike County Commonwealth’s Attorney before his retirement in 2018.
“Naming this street after Ron is a testament to his lasting impact on Pikeville Medical Center and our entire region. Today, we celebrate the dedication, passion and unwavering support he has demonstrated during his many years of service,” said PMC Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Donovan Blackburn. “It is appropriate that one of the last projects he was involved with as Chairman will bear his name and be known as a project that increases safety and convenience for our employees, our patients and our entire community.”
Burchett Way serves as a symbol of unity between PMC and the City of Pikeville, who have worked together on many projects throughout the hospital’s nearly 100-year history. The most recent of those projects was the pedestrian tunnel which opened in 2022.
“Today’s ribbon-cutting ceremony is a result of meticulous planning, collaboration and investments by the City of Pikeville and Pikeville Medical Center, which address the needs of Pikeville residents as well as patients, employees and visitors of the hospital,” said Pikeville Mayor Jimmy Carter. “Burchett Way provides a convenient transportation route and symbolizes a great partnership between the City and PMC.”
Motorists and pedestrians are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Burchett Way, which has created a new traffic pattern crossing the PMC Riverfill property.
