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Long-term road closures connected to the Brent Spence corridor project will begin May 20 in Covington as construction ramps up on the multibillion-dollar interstate overhaul. The project includes a new companion bridge beside the Brent Spence Bridge and major roadway reconstruction along I-71/75. Kentucky and Ohio officials held a groundbreaking ceremony this week to mark the official start of construction. Some closures are expected to continue through 2027 as crews begin phased work across the corridor.
The Brent Spence corridor project is entering a major construction phase with long-term road closures beginning in Covington this month.
The Brent Spence corridor groundbreaking this week marks the start of years of construction tied to one of the region’s largest infrastructure projects.
State leaders from Kentucky and Ohio officially launched the project Friday during a groundbreaking ceremony near the Ohio River. The multibillion-dollar effort includes a new companion bridge beside the existing Brent Spence Bridge and major highway reconstruction through Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati.
According to the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project, crews will begin several long-term closures on May 20. Officials said the closures will allow contractors to safely begin roadway reconstruction and utility work connected to the corridor redesign.
The first phase affects multiple ramps and local streets in Covington, including:
- The southbound I-71/75 on-ramp from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and West Fifth Street
- The northbound Exit 191 ramp to 12th Street and Pike Street
- Portions of Bullock Avenue and nearby connector roads
Transportation officials said some closures could remain in place through 2027, while others may become permanent because of the redesigned traffic layout.
Brent Spence corridor work reshapes traffic flow
The Brent Spence corridor project aims to reduce traffic congestion along one of the nation’s busiest freight routes. More than 160,000 vehicles travel the interstate corridor daily, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
The new companion bridge will carry through traffic across the Ohio River. Officials plan to convert the existing Brent Spence Bridge primarily for local traffic once construction finishes.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine joined federal transportation leaders during the groundbreaking event. Regional business groups and local officials also attended the ceremony.
Several news outlets, including WCPO and WLWT, reported that construction on the overall corridor could continue into 2033. Officials expect the companion bridge to open around 2031.
The project has received bipartisan political support because of its economic impact on freight movement and regional commerce. Federal infrastructure funding helped move the long-delayed project into active construction.
Brent Spence corridor closures affect Covington drivers
Drivers in Covington and downtown Cincinnati should expect detours and slower traffic as construction expands across the corridor starting May 20. Officials urged commuters to monitor updated traffic patterns and allow extra travel time.
Local businesses near the construction zone may also experience disruptions during the early phases of work. State transportation agencies said they will continue releasing updated closure schedules throughout the project timeline.
According to project leaders, crews will use phased construction to reduce major traffic interruptions whenever possible. Officials also plan to maintain interstate access during peak travel periods.
The Brent Spence corridor project remains one of the largest transportation investments in the Cincinnati region in decades. Leaders from both states said the project will improve safety, modernize freight movement, and support future economic growth across the Ohio-Kentucky border.
FAQs
When do the Brent Spence corridor road closures begin?
The first long-term closures are scheduled to begin on May 20 in Covington. Officials said the closures are necessary for roadway reconstruction and utility work tied to the project.
Which roads and ramps will close first?
The initial phase includes closures affecting the southbound I-71/75 on-ramp from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and West Fifth Street. The northbound Exit 191 ramp to 12th Street and Pike Street will also be impacted.
What is included in the Brent Spence corridor project?
The project includes construction of a new companion bridge next to the existing Brent Spence Bridge. It also includes highway improvements, redesigned interchanges, and traffic flow upgrades through Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati.
How long will construction last?
Officials expect construction on the overall corridor project to continue into 2033. The new companion bridge is projected to open around 2031, according to regional transportation agencies.
