Federal Funding Secured for Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project

Groundbreaking on a companion bridge is expected in late 2023.

Shutterstock photo.

(Frankfort, Ky.) - Federal funding has been granted for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. 

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced Thursday that the project was awarded more than $1.6 billion, giving the bridge and corridor project the green light to move towards construction. 

With funding secured, groundbreaking on the project is anticipated for late 2023 with substantial completion slated for 2029. 

Project plans call for the construction of a companion bridge to the west of the existing Brent Spence Bridge, as well as improvements to the current bridge and the roadway network that ties into each river crossing. 

As a result, there will be enhanced pedestrian access across I-75 in Cincinnati to reconnect downtown with western neighborhoods and the City of Cincinnati will regain nearly 10 acres to develop in the downtown area. In Kentucky, the project will include a new storm sewer system to reduce flooding and improve local roads, including enhanced pedestrian and bicycle facilities in the area of the existing and new bridge. 

The immediate next step will be the selection process to determine the build design of teh new companion bridge. 

The total cost of the project is estimated to be about $3.6 billion. 

For more information, visit https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/.

Statement from Governor Beshear: 

“I’m thrilled the time has finally come for us to get the companion bridge built,” Gov. Beshear said. “Funding and constructing the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project is more than the fulfillment of my administration’s promise – it’s a dream fulfilled for the thousands of travelers who pass through the bustling region every day waiting eagerly for traffic relief to come on this nationally significant corridor. It also shows what’s possible when we prioritize people over politics. Once complete, drivers will have a more enjoyable and efficient drive and we’ll have the infrastructure in place to support the booming economy in this part of the state. Hats off to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Ohio Department of Transportation, and the countless partners and advocates who played a role in today’s monumental achievement, including the Kentucky General Assembly for the last budget allocation and Sen. McConnell for supporting the federal legislation. We appreciate President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg for this historic investment.”

Statement from Governor DeWine: 

“Ohio and Kentucky have been discussing the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project for almost two decades, and now, we can finally move beyond the talk and get to work,” said Gov. DeWine. “This project will not only ease the traffic nightmare that drivers have suffered through for years, but it will also help ensure that the movement of the supply chain doesn’t stall on this nationally significant corridor. My administration vowed to press the federal government to fund this project, and we’re glad that they have recognized its significance. I’m grateful to the teams in both states who have worked so hard to make this project a reality.”