$1.6 billion for the Brent Spence Bridge Project; Work will start in 2023

CINCINNATI (WXIX) — The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded $1.635 billion to build the long-awaited companion bridge to the Brent Spence Bridge, according to Governors Andy Beshear and Mike DeWine.

The project, which will offload traffic, improve safety and do so without tolls, is expected to begin in late 2023, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said.

Most of the project is expected to be completed in 2029, the governor added.

The money will also be used to improve the eight-mile corridor of the Brent-Spence Bridge, which runs from the Western Hills Viaduct in Ohio to the Dixie Highway in Kentucky, Mayor Aftab Purewal’s office said.

Pedestrian access via I-75 to Cincinnati will also be improved to reconnect downtown with western neighborhoods, Beshear said.

Cincinnati will reclaim nearly 10 acres of downtown development land.

“This project will not only alleviate a transportation nightmare that drivers have suffered for years, but will also help ensure that supply chain movement does not stop at this national corridor,” said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine.

Beshear says that in Kentucky, the project will include a new storm sewer system to reduce flooding and improve local roads, including improved pedestrian and bike paths around the existing and new bridge.

“Once completed, drivers will experience a more enjoyable and efficient driving experience, and we will have the infrastructure to support the booming economy in this part of the state,” Governor Beshear added.

According to the mayor of Cincinnati, the funding will be split between Ohio and Kentucky as part of a multi-year grant agreement.

Below is a breakdown of where the $1.635 billion will come from:

• $250 million from the Discretionary Multimodal Project Grant (MEGA), which helps large and complex projects of economic importance.
• $1.385 billion from the Bridge Investment Program. This money will be distributed under a multi-year grant agreement with ODOT and KYTC, a new funding mechanism created to help large bridge projects. This was the second federal funding application filed jointly by two states.

Initially, Ohio and Kentucky sought a $1.66 billion federal grant.

While they have not been awarded the full amount, $1.635 billion is a historic amount, City Hall said.

More information is expected to be released next week.

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