Cincinnati, Ohio – Officials in Ohio and Kentucky have officially cleared the way for major construction to begin on the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project, marking a turning point after decades of planning and discussion.
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) announced that the Ohio Controlling Board has approved the authority needed to finalize construction plans, allowing crews to begin work this spring.
“This project has been discussed for decades, and we are now at the point where plans are becoming reality. This project will make travel safer, strengthen the economy, and build a transportation system that reflects the importance of this region to Ohio, Kentucky, and the nation,” said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn. “Getting to this point on the Ohio side has been a team effort with strong support from Governor Mike DeWine, the Ohio General Assembly, and local leaders. Together we are moving forward.”
Major Milestone for a Critical Corridor
The Brent Spence Bridge corridor carries enormous economic weight, with officials estimating that more than $1 billion in freight moves through the corridor each day. The project will transform key portions of Interstate 71 and Interstate 75 in Kentucky and Interstate 75 in Ohio, addressing one of the most severe traffic bottlenecks in the country.
“This is a historic year for the entire Northern Kentucky and southwest Ohio region, and we are excited for all the good work our teams have been doing behind the scenes to lead to visible action aimed at improving the lives of the communities we serve,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray.
A formal groundbreaking ceremony is expected later this spring, signaling the visible start of heavy construction work.
Cost, Timeline, and Workforce Impact
The project carries a significant price tag. Officials confirmed that ODOT received approval for contract authority exceeding $1.5 billion, along with an additional $2.89 billion to support construction of the new companion bridge and related work.
In total, the project cost stands at $4.39 billion, including earlier design, engineering, and demolition work. The construction portion alone is expected to cost $4.05 billion. Despite rising construction costs nationwide—up 61 percent between 2020 and 2025—officials say the project has been carefully managed to control expenses.
Importantly, officials confirmed the project will move forward without tolls, with funding coming from federal support, as well as state revenues and financing shared between Ohio and Kentucky.
Construction is expected to stretch over several years. The new companion bridge is projected to open in 2031, with additional roadway and approach work expected to be substantially completed by 2033.
The project is also expected to deliver a major economic boost, generating approximately six million hours of work and employing more than 700 skilled tradespeople, with that number potentially rising to 1,000 workers at peak construction. Wages are expected to start at around $30 per hour, creating strong opportunities for those interested in construction careers.
Traffic Changes and Construction Plans
As construction ramps up, both states have developed plans to maintain traffic flow while work is underway.
In Ohio, at least two entrances and two exits will remain open in each direction into and out of Cincinnati. However, several changes will take place, including temporary ramp closures and relocations, along with extensive work on bridges and connections along I-75.
One notable aspect of the Ohio work includes the partial demolition and reconstruction of a 200-foot section of Longworth Hall, which is necessary to make room for the new bridge.
In Kentucky, traffic access will be more limited, with one entrance ramp in each direction into and out of Covington during early construction. Crews will also carry out sewer and water line reconstruction, along with efforts to separate stormwater from the combined sewer system.
Additional work will include tree clearing operations and the full closure of the Riverfront Commons Trail later in the summer.
Preparing for Construction and Future Impact
Much of the early groundwork has already been completed, including utility relocations, demolition work, and site preparation. In 2026, crews will begin more visible work, including constructing the approaches to the companion bridge and placing equipment such as barges and cranes along the Ohio River.
Officials say updates about traffic changes, detours, and construction progress will be shared regularly through the project website and public notifications.
As the project moves forward, leaders emphasize its long-term importance. The improvements are expected to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and strengthen economic connections across the region.
After years of planning, coordination, and funding efforts, the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project is finally moving into its most visible phase—one that promises lasting change for travelers, businesses, and communities on both sides of the Ohio River.
