Kentucky Launches Construction on Brent Spence Bridge Companion Project

Gov. Beshear announces groundbreaking for $4.05 billion project to improve major Ohio-Kentucky corridor

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:18pm

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Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced that construction is set to begin this spring on the transformational Brent Spence Bridge Corridor (BSBC) Project, which will build a new companion bridge and make highway improvements in both Ohio and Kentucky. The project is expected to generate 6 million work hours and employ over 1,000 workers at peak construction, with wages starting at $30 per hour.

Why it matters

The Brent Spence Bridge is a critical transportation link between Ohio and Kentucky, carrying Interstates 71 and 75 over the Ohio River. The aging bridge has long faced congestion and safety issues, and this project aims to improve travel, boost the regional economy, and strengthen national commerce through the corridor.

The details

Construction will begin by building the new companion bridge and improving highway approaches in both states. Subsequent phases will include additional highway improvements and rehabilitation of the existing Brent Spence Bridge. The $4.05 billion project will be funded through state revenues and financing, without the use of tolls. Travel impacts during construction include ramp closures and detours in both Ohio and Kentucky.

  • Construction is set to begin this spring.
  • The new companion bridge is expected to be completed and open in 2031.
  • Approach work is anticipated to be substantially complete by 2033.

The players

Andy Beshear

Governor of Kentucky.

Jim Gray

Secretary of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Pamela Boratyn

Director of the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Walsh Kokosing

The design-build team for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project.

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What they’re saying

“This project is not only delivering safer travel and a stronger economy, but also good-paying jobs for our people in Kentucky and Ohio. We're encouraging folks to get out and apply for these jobs so they can help be a part of this national project while also bringing home a good paycheck to support their family.”

— Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky

“This project reflects what is possible when states work together with a shared vision. As we move from planning to construction, we are creating meaningful opportunities for both contractors and individuals to participate in a once-in-a-generation project that will be built to serve the region for decades to come.”

— Jim Gray, Secretary of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

What’s next

Pending weather and construction schedules, the new companion bridge is expected to be complete and open in 2031, with the approach work substantially complete by 2033.

The takeaway

This major infrastructure project represents a collaborative effort between Kentucky and Ohio to improve a critical transportation corridor, create thousands of construction jobs, and strengthen the regional and national economy for decades to come.