Governor Andy Beshear and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine have unveiled the design for the new companion bridge that’s part of the 8-mile-long Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
The decision marks a major milestone on one of the nation’s most significant transportation investments. Officials say this project improves safety and strengthens economic development opportunities.
In a video statement, Governor Beshear, a Democrat, said working with Ohio's Republican governor shows what can happen when everyone works together.
“This is a project that has been dreamed of for years, and that many said would never happen, but we're getting it done and we're doing it without tolls. At a time when division too often defines our politics, here in Kentucky and Ohio, we're building real bridges.”
In a video statement, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said revealing this design is an important part of the process for the public.
“People will begin to see what this is going to look like. Construction of a bridge takes a long time; it's going to take a number of years to do this. We want to show people that we're making progress, we also want to give them an idea of what this is going to look like.”
The design underwent extensive technical review and wind testing. Ultimately, cost, constructability, and schedule were the primary factors in selecting the bridge type.
The Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project is among the nation’s most significant transportation transformations, spanning eight miles of I-71/I-75 in Kentucky and I-75 in Ohio.
The existing Brent Spence Bridge, which has served the region since 1963, currently carries traffic volumes far exceeding its original design capacity.