$4.05 billion Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project breaks ground
The Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project broke ground on May 8, 2026, marking one of the nation’s largest transportation infrastructure projects to date. First constructed in 1963, the Brent Spence Bridge connects Ohio and Kentucky over the Ohio river. It currently sees over $1 billion in freight passes daily. The $4.05 billion in improvements will go towards restoration of the emergency shoulders, redesigned ramp configurations and safer pedestrian pathways.
“Today, we took a major step forward for Kentucky, Ohio, and America as we broke ground on the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project,” said Governor Beshear. “This historic project will deliver safer travel for our families, create good-paying construction jobs, boost national commerce, and ease congestion for commuters. From securing federal and state funding to ensuring project plans are moving forward, my administration has worked hard to deliver on this promise. When we work together, great things can happen for the American people – something Kentucky and Ohio are proving daily.”
At the ceremony, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear celebrated the official launch of the project which is expected to reach full completion in 2033. It is funded by both states along with $1.63 billion in two federal transportation grants. The last improvement to the bridge was in 1985, which added a fourth lane by eliminating the emergency shoulders. The project is expected to employ over 700 trade workers.
“Today, after decades of planning and preparation, we are finally breaking ground on a solution to the traffic headaches and interstate commerce delays caused by the overcrowded Brent Spence Bridge,” said Governor DeWine. “This new companion bridge will make our roads safer and our economy stronger, while demonstrating what’s possible when states and the federal government work together to solve our biggest challenges.”
Photo Credit: Ohio Department of Transportation
