The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is set to begin two major bridge construction projects that will affect Covington in the coming years: the KY 8 Licking River Bridge Replacement and the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project.
Although the City of Covington is not managing these projects, city officials have stated their commitment to keeping residents, businesses, and travelers informed about what to expect during construction.
The first project involves replacing the KY 8 Licking River Bridge, also known as the 4th Street Bridge, which connects Covington and Newport across the Licking River. The existing bridge, built in 1936, will be replaced to improve safety and extend its lifespan. The new design will include separate shared-use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists.
A full closure of the bridge is planned for January 2026, with demolition expected in spring of that year. Construction is projected to last through fall 2028, with traffic resuming in summer 2028. During this period, motorists will need to use the Girl Scout Bridge (KY 1120/11th Street) as a detour between Newport and Covington, which may add about five minutes to travel times. The Roebling Suspension Bridge will not serve as a detour for vehicles over its weight limit.
For pedestrians and bicyclists, KYTC is working with Covington and Newport officials on a shuttle service that will accommodate wheelchairs and bicycles throughout the closure. More details about this service are expected in fall 2025.
The second project focuses on improvements to the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor. The aim is to enhance local traffic flow between downtown Cincinnati and Covington by upgrading eight miles of roadway in Ohio and Kentucky, redesigning ramp configurations, adding pedestrian and bike paths, using the current bridge for local traffic only, and constructing a new companion bridge for I-71/I-75 regional traffic.
The Brent Spence Bridge itself will remain open during construction. Early preparation work for the new bridge is scheduled to start in 2025. Updates on detailed designs and timelines are expected later that year. Periodic lane closures and ramp restrictions on I-71/75 are anticipated while work progresses.
Travelers are advised to check navigation apps for trip times when crossing the river due to possible delays or changes in routes (https://www.brentspencebridgecorridor.com). Additional information about both projects can be found at www.ky8bridge.org for updates on the KY 8 Licking River Bridge Project.
Officials recommend planning extra travel time during peak hours, using alternate bridges when possible, driving cautiously through construction zones, and utilizing navigation tools for updated trip information.
According to city officials: “While construction will cause temporary changes, these projects are critical to Covington’s future. When completed, both bridges will mean safer, more efficient travel for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
They added: “And remember: even with these bridge projects underway, there are still multiple ways to access Covington.”
