CINCINNATI — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced Friday the states received federal environment approval to move the $3.6 billion Brent Spence Corridor project forward without tolls.

What You Need To Know

  • The Federal Highway Administration concluded from the assessment conducted by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the Ohio Department of Transportation that there was no significant impact to the environment

  • The assessment evaluated the environmental effects of the project and construction, as well as the measures to mitigate unavoidable impacts

  • The $3.6 billion project, which stretches from the Western Hills Viaduct in Ohio to Dixie Highway in Kentucky, will be built without tolls and will alter eight miles of the i-75/71 interstate corridor

“This is an important step forward in bringing efficiency to our nation’s supply chain. The project will address one of the worst truck bottlenecks in the nation by improving safety and travel on an interstate connection that carries more than $400 billion worth of freight every year,” said DeWine in a press release. “It’s also a big step in reducing the frustration and inconvenience drivers have experienced in the corridor for more than 20 years.”

The Federal Highway Administration concluded from the assessment conducted by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the Ohio Department of Transportation that there was no significant impact to the environment. The assessment evaluated the environmental effects of the project and construction, as well as the measures to mitigate unavoidable impacts, according to a press release from DeWine's office. The FHWA said its decision also included consideration of public and agency comments which were received during a public comment period. 

“The Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project is a testament to what can happen when we work together to get things done,” said Beshear in a press release. “The federal approval is a major milestone for us, and we’re grateful to all our partners and communities for their feedback. We look forward to completing this project, which will further boost our economic growth and create more good jobs for our families.”

Between KYTC and ODOT, there were 16 neighborhood meetings and two open house events in 2022 to get comments from the public on the project. There were also five public hearings in February which allowed the public to comment on the projects supplemental environmental assessment. 

“We will continue to engage with community members and listen to their feedback to obtain the best outcome for the people who rely on the corridor,” said ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks in a press release. “The Federal Highway Administration’s approval is important but so, too, is the quality of life for residents in southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky.”

The $3.6 billion project, which stretches from the Western Hills Viaduct in Ohio to Dixie Highway in Kentucky, will be built without tolls and will alter eight miles of the I-75/71 interstate corridor. The changes will include a companion bridge west of the existing bridge. 

“Stakeholder participation has been invaluable to the project team as we make plans to deliver a transportation solution that will benefit communities and all road users,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Their voices, and the voices of everyone in the region, have and will continue to play an important role in making this project a success for residents on both sides of the river.”

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