Gov. Andy Beshear has announced $6.5 million in funding for 13 bridge projects across Kentucky, impacting 12 counties and the city of Hardin. This funding is part of the County and City Bridge Improvement Program, which aims to repair, replace, or preserve bridges to enhance safety and maintain essential community connections.
In its first year, the program has allocated nearly $25 million to local governments for bridges that are closed or have traffic limitations. “Bridges link more than roads; they link Kentuckians to the places that matter most like school, work or health care,” Gov. Beshear said. He emphasized the importance of keeping bridges in good repair for families, first responders, and businesses.
The latest round of awards will fund ten new bridges replacing existing structures and three bridges that will be repaired or preserved. All these bridges currently have weight restrictions or are closed. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) engineers reviewed each project for effective solutions. KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said, “A lot is riding on our roads and bridges and we are proud to invest state dollars in keeping them safe.”
Among the recipients is Woodford County Fiscal Court, receiving $1.1 million for a bridge replacement on Paynes Depot Road. Judge Executive James Kay expressed gratitude for Gov. Beshear’s commitment to infrastructure and highlighted the project’s importance for safety and commerce.
Lyon County Fiscal Court received $530,747 to replace a bridge on Ferguson Road with improved features such as steel supports and a wider span. Lyon County Judge Executive Jaime Green-Smith thanked officials for prioritizing rural communities’ needs.
Barren County Fiscal Court was awarded $439,316 for preserving a bridge on Matthews Mill Road by protecting it from corrosion. County Judge Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd noted the project’s significance in extending the road’s longevity.
Recommended by Gov. Beshear and authorized by House Bill 265 in 2024, the program allocates $25 million annually through 2026. So far, funds have been awarded to 58 projects across 44 counties and five cities.
Local governments seeking future funding can contact the Department of Rural and Municipal Aid or their local Department of Highways district office.
Information from this article can be found here.
