Kenton County announced on May 4 that significant traffic changes will begin May 20 around the Kenton County Government Center in Covington as part of the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is leading this regional infrastructure effort, which will affect several interstate ramps and local roads near the government facility.
The updates are important for residents and visitors who need to reach county offices, especially as construction aims to improve safety and mobility by adding new lanes, building a companion bridge, and converting the current bridge for local use. Despite nearby closures, officials say the Kenton County Government Center will remain open throughout construction.
Access to the building will continue through Dixie Highway (U.S. 25) and Madison Avenue (KY-17) via Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. The entrance from Simon Kenton Way is expected to stay open until October 2026; after that date, entry will be available only from Pike Street. Key road closures starting or after May 20 include: closure of Bullock Avenue between Pike Street and MLK Jr. Blvd., reconfiguration of Simon Kenton Way to two-way traffic during closure, and detours for both I-71/75 southbound on-ramp from Bullock Avenue/MLK Jr. Blvd., with reopening expected in late October 2026; I-71/75 northbound Exit 191 with a detour using Exit 192 until summer 2027; and permanent closure of West Fifth Street portion at I-71/75 southbound Exit 192 beginning May 26.
To avoid delays related to downtown Covington construction impacts, residents can also access many government services at the Historic Kenton County Courthouse in Independence at 5272 Madison Pike. Available services there include those provided by the Sheriff’s Office, Clerk’s Office, and Property Valuation Administrator.
Officials confirmed that voting access would not be affected by these changes: “The Kenton County Government Center will remain an active polling location for the upcoming May 19 election.” Construction-related closures are not expected to impact election operations or voter access.
According to the official website, Kenton County emphasizes transparency through public access to agendas, meetings and fiscal information. The county maintains administrative offices at 1840 Simon Kenton Way in Covington, Kentucky according to its official website. It serves residents in Northern Kentucky by focusing on efficient and responsive local government according to its official website. The county operates under a fiscal court system led by a Judge/Executive and three district commissioners according to its official website. It facilitates community partnerships and redevelopment funding for local projects according to its official website.
Residents are encouraged to allow extra travel time while following posted signage as traffic patterns change during construction. Updates about additional changes connected with the Brent Spence Corridor Project can be found through project websites or social media channels.
