Work is officially underway on the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project, which connects Kentucky and Ohio. Representatives from both states met in Cincinnati on Friday afternoon for the groundbreaking of the main portion of the project.
“This is a historic moment for the City of Covington. For decades, this corridor has been one of the most vital connections in our country, linking not just Covington and Cincinnati, but the entire region and beyond,” Covington Mayor Ronald L. Washington said. “This investment will transform how people and goods move across our river, strengthen our local economy, and create new opportunities on both sides. Today is not just about building a bridge, it’s about building a more connected future for generations to come.”
The initial phase involves constructing a new companion bridge and improving about one mile of highway on each side in Kentucky and Ohio. The project, estimated at $4.05 billion, aims to improve traffic flow and safety while supporting economic growth. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the Ohio Department of Transportation, and other sources will fund the project. Each state will cover its own road work and share the bridge cost. Kentucky will contribute an estimated $1.7 billion.
The project is expected to create more than 700 jobs and require about six million labor hours. Wages will start at $30 per hour.
Travel impacts and detours will be announced on the project website and social media channels. Drivers can also sign up for travel advisories via push notifications, emails, and text messages. A monthly e-newsletter is published featuring project updates.