Demolition of 90-year-old structure makes way for new Licking River Bridge in Kentucky
March 06, 2026
Ãë²¥ and Kentucky Transportation Cabinet celebrate successful controlled demolition of 90-year-old?bridge
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has completed a successful controlled demolition of the existing KY 8 Licking River Bridge.?The demolition?marks?a major project milestone toward?the construction?of a modern, signature design bridge.
The controlled blast was carefully planned and executed to bring the 90-year-old bridge down safely?while also shaving a year off construction time, allowing?the new bridge to open to traffic by summer 2028.
Originally built in 1936, the Licking River Bridge serves as a vital connection between?the central business districts of?Covington and Newport, Kentucky.?When the new bridge opens, residents will enjoy a modern, renewed link that will serve each community?for years to?come.?
The new bridge will include four lanes of vehicular traffic and dedicated shared-use paths for pedestrians and cyclists, separated from traffic to enhance safety and accessibility. The project will also?improve?public transit service and support local businesses and neighborhoods along the corridor.
Stantec?is serving as the lead designer on the project in partnership with?the?PCL Construction?design-build team.??
Learn more about?the design of the?KY 8?Licking River Bridge.?