Governors Beshear and DeWine reveal design for companion bridge in Brent Spence Bridge Corridor initiative
The Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky is set to undergo a significant transformation with the construction of a new companion bridge. This cable-stayed independent deck bridge, a modern marvel in design, will carry traffic on I-71 and I-75[2].
Unlike traditional double-deck bridges, this new bridge design features two decks that are structurally independent, supported solely by cables without any steel work connecting the two decks[1]. The top level will carry northbound traffic, offering unobstructed views of the Cincinnati skyline[3].
Key features of the new bridge design include the use of a cabling system to support both decks, replacing the traditional steel truss support seen in the existing bridge[1]. This innovative approach is similar to the Abraham Lincoln Bridge in Louisville and Veterans Glass City Skyway in Toledo, but uniquely applies structural independence between decks.
The design was selected after extensive evaluation for aesthetics, cost, constructability, and schedule efficiency, being lower in cost and easier to build compared to other options[1]. The bridge aims to be a recognizable regional landmark and integrates well visually with the surroundings and existing infrastructure.
The design team evaluated multiple concepts based on visual and aesthetic criteria, including how well they fit the surroundings, their visual connection to the existing bridge, and their potential to become a recognizable regional landmark[4]. The decision to use this design marks a major milestone on one of the nation's most significant transportation investments[5].
The project includes improvements to the existing Brent Spence Bridge, redesigned ramp configurations, new pedestrian and bike paths, and aesthetic improvements[6]. The existing bridge will be reconfigured to carry local traffic with three lanes on each deck and emergency shoulders on each side[7].
The Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project is one of the nation's most significant transportation transformations, spanning eight miles in Kentucky and Ohio[8]. The project's completion will address one of the country's most severe traffic bottlenecks, improving safety and strengthening economic development opportunities[9]. The project is expected to create new opportunities for regional economic growth and community connectivity[10].
Stay updated on the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project by visiting their official website at www.BrentSpenceBridgeCorridor.com. The design underwent technical review and wind testing to ensure stability and performance[1], and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has concurred with the bridge type[5]. The design-build team will continue to advance the project toward final engineering and construction phases.
[1] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/about/ [2] Ohio River Bridges Project. (2021, February 23). Retrieved from https://www.ohioriverbridges.com/about/ [3] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/project-overview/ [4] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/design-aesthetic/ [5] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/selection-of-bridge-type/ [6] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/project-overview/ [7] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/design-aesthetic/ [8] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/project-overview/ [9] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/impact/ [10] Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://brentspencebridgecorridor.com/impact/
- The new companion bridge for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project in Covington, Northern Kentucky, and Cincinnati will not only carry traffic on I-71 and I-75, but it will also be a recognizable regional landmark, integrating well with the surroundings and existing infrastructure.
- The cable-stayed independent deck bridge, a modern marvel in design, will offer unobstructed views of the Cincinnati skyline from the top level carrying northbound traffic.
- The decision to use this innovative design for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project marks a major milestone on one of the nation's most significant transportation investments, addressing a severe traffic bottleneck and improving safety.
- The Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project, spanning eight miles in Kentucky and Ohio, includes improvements to the existing bridge, redesigned ramp configurations, new pedestrian and bike paths, and aesthetic improvements.
- The project's completion is expected to create new opportunities for regional economic growth and community connectivity, strengthening economic development opportunities.
- The design-build team is continuing to advance the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project toward final engineering and construction phases, having undergone technical review and wind testing to ensure stability and performance, with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) concurring with the bridge type.
