Exit Ramp Closures Begin in Covington

The closures are associated with the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project.

Rendering of Brent Spence Companion Bridge. Photo provided.

(Covington, Ky.) - Motorists are being advised of closures that will have a big impact on commuters traveling through Covington. 

According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the following closures will be in place as part of the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project starting Monday, June 8

• I-71/75 northbound off-ramp to 12th Street/MLK Jr. Blvd. This closure will remain in place through Summer 2027.
• I-71/75 southbound on-ramp from 12th Street/MLK Jr. Blvd. This closure will remain in place through October 2026.

The schedule for the following traffic changes has been adjusted to begin on or after Monday, June 15

• Bullock Avenue from Pike Street to the on-ramp for I-71/75 southbound at 12th Street will be closed. This closure will remain in place through October 2026.
• 12th Street between Simon Kenton Way and Bullock Avenue will be closed. This closure will remain in place through substantial project completion expected in 2033.
• Simon Kenton Way will be converted to two-way traffic from 12th Street to Pike Street.
• A new traffic signal will be installed at Pike Street and Hermes Avenue.

The I-71/75 southbound off-ramp to Fifth Street will remain open while W. Third Street in Covington is blocked to thru traffic. Once W. Third Street reopens, the I-71/75 southbound W. Fifth Street off-ramp, as well as Fifth Street from Crescent Avenue to the I-71/75 northbound exit off-ramp west of Philadelphia Street will close. We'll let folks know ahead of when the reopening of Third and the closure of Fifth is going to take place.

Motorists are urged to plan ahead, leave early, and drive safely. 

The greatest level of disruption is anticipated during the initial days following the closures as drivers adjust and find alternate routes. During this period, motorists may experience heavier congestion and longer travel times while the regional transportation network adapts to the change.

Traffic conditions will continue to be monitored closely throughout the project, and adjustments to traffic management strategies may be made as needed to help improve mobility and reduce congestion where possible.