COVINGTON, KY — Governor Andy Beshear joined state and local officials for a controlled demolition of the existing KY 8 Licking River Bridge, marking a major project milestone toward construction of a modern, signature design bridge to connect Covington and Newport, Kentucky.
The controlled blast was carefully planned and executed to bring the aging bridge down safely with minimum risk to workers and the surrounding community while also shaving a year off construction time, which will allow the new bridge to open to traffic by summer 2028.
“Today we say goodbye to a bridge that has served Kentuckians for nearly a century, and we make room for something new,” Beshear said at the event. “The new KY 8 bridge will be a signature bridge that’s safer, stronger, and better-equipped to support the continued momentum we are seeing in this region for future generations.”
The new bridge will include four lanes of vehicular traffic and dedicated shared-use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists, separated from traffic to enhance safety and accessibility. The project will also support public transit service and improve connections between the central business districts of Covington and Newport, while supporting local businesses and neighborhoods along the corridor.
“The controlled demolition is a tangible sign that this project is moving from planning into action,” Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray said. “Replacing this bridge ensures we are investing in infrastructure that serves the needs of today while preparing for tomorrow.”
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The signature bridge design was shaped through extensive community input, which emphasized the importance of creating a design that is both functional and visually distinctive. Team Kentucky secured bridge architect Miguel Rosales to ensure the new bridge will serve as an aesthetic and lasting addition to the northern Kentucky skyline while improving travel for users.
During construction, connectivity will be maintained for those who rely on the Fourth Street bridge for pedestrian and bicycle crossing via the Licking River Link, a free shuttle service provided via a partnership with Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky.
This service will focus on providing a connection to basic and essential needs for these commuters — like daycare, employment, and groceries. The shuttle vehicle will feature an installed bike rack to encourage first- and last-mile mobility connections for riders. The bus will also provide wheelchair accessibility.
“This project clears the way for new economic opportunity and long-term growth for Covington,” Covington Mayor Ron Washington said. “As nearby developments continue to rise on both sides of the Licking River, a modern, reimagined crossing will support tourism, attract new investment, and make it easier for residents and visitors alike to experience everything our city has to offer.”
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“This project represents progress for our entire region," Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli added. "The new bridge will better connect our communities, support continued investment along the river, and create a safer experience for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.”
Construction on the new bridge will begin in the spring under a design-build contract with PCL Construction and Stantec.
