Media Contacts: Naitore Djigbenou
502.782.4829
Naitore.Djigbenou@ky.gov
Allen Blair
606.748.3716
Allen.Blair@ky.gov
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 26, 2025) – Gov. Andy Beshear today announced the latest round of funding recipients from the County and City Bridge Improvement Program, awarding $6.5 million for 13 critical bridge projects across 12 Kentucky counties and the city of Hardin. The funding will repair, replace or preserve bridges to improve safety, extend their lifespan and maintain important community links for Kentuckians.
Nearly $25 million has been awarded to local governments in the first year of the program to address bridges that are closed, have posted traffic limitations, or in need of repair. A full list of recently awarded projects can be found here.
“Bridges link more than roads; they link Kentuckians to the places that matter most like school, work or health care,” said Gov. Beshear. “This program keeps local bridges in a good state of repair so they can remain in service as safe and efficient connections for the families, first responders and businesses that rely on them.”
“We know the importance of getting to and from school, work and church and getting there safely.” said Gov. Beshear. “This program supports critical improvements that will extend the life of each bridge so they can remain in service for the families, first responders and businesses that rely on them.”
This third round of awards funds:
- 10 new bridges that will replace existing structures.
- 3 bridges that will be repaired or preserved to extend the life of existing structures.
- All 13 bridges are currently posted with weight restrictions or closed.
Each project was reviewed and validated by Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) engineers to ensure the most effective solutions.
“A lot is riding on our roads and bridges and we are proud to invest state dollars in keeping them safe and sound for years to come through this program,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray.
The Woodford County Fiscal Court received $1.1 million for a bridge replacement project on Paynes Depot Road, a rural road that carries more than 1,000 vehicles each day between Woodford and Scott counties. The bridge has a posted weight limit with a six-mile detour for heavy vehicles.
“We are incredibly thankful for Governor Beshear's unwavering commitment to infrastructure, and for the General Assembly's support in securing this crucial funding for the Paynes Depot Bridge,” said Judge Executive James Kay. “This project is not just about replacing an aging bridge; it's about ensuring the safety of our citizens, facilitating rapid emergency medical services response, and maintaining the flow of commerce on a roadway that serves thousands of vehicles daily.”
The Lyon County Fiscal Court received $530,747 to replace a bridge on Ferguson Road with a stronger, safer structure. The new bridge will feature steel supports versus timber, a wider bridge span, and reshaped channel under the bridge to improve water flow and protect the new steel supports from erosion.
“This vital infrastructure improvement benefits not only the residents of Lyon County but also our neighbors in Caldwell County. We are deeply appreciative of Governor Beshear, Transportation Secretary Jim Gray, Commissioner Bobbi Jo Lewis, and our dedicated legislators for their commitment to investing in our community. This project is crucial for maintaining safe and reliable transportation, ensuring smooth travel for our residents, first responders, school buses, and our agricultural industry. Thank you for prioritizing the needs of rural communities like ours,” said Lyon County Judge Executive Jaime Green-Smith.
The Barren County Fiscal Court received $439,316 for a bridge preservation project on Matthews Mill Road that has a posted weight limit. The repair project will extend the life of the bridge by protecting the beams from further corrosion and ensuring a safe route for school buses.
“We are so excited to be able to take that money to increase the longevity of this rural road in Barren County that’s highly traveled and has a huge impact on the community,” said County Judge Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd.
Recommended by Gov. Beshear and authorized by the 2024 legislature through House Bill 265, the County and City Bridge Improvement Program sets aside $25 million in each of the 2025 and 2026 fiscal years. To date, 58 projects for 44 counties and five cities have been awarded funds. Local governments interested in future funding opportunities are encouraged to contact the Department of Rural and Municipal Aid or their local Department of Highways district office for more information.