Kentucky: 4th Street Ramp Onto the Brent Spence Bridge

Doing the “Texas Turnaround” in Kentucky

Challenge: The 4th Street ramp (I-71/I-75 Northbound) onto the Brent Spence Bridge in Covington, Ky. was one of the most dangerous driving gauntlets in America. Going north into Cincinnati required motorists to cross four lanes quickly, hit the gas and say a prayer. Accidents plagued this spot for years..

The Solution: With help from the federal infrastructure investment law a safer interchange has been delivered. Instead of fearing for their safety, motorists are now doing a “Texas Turnaround.” Rather than dumping cars onto the bridge approach with little time to cross lanes – the new configuration sends drivers south to loop around giving everyone more time and space to navigate lanes. Continuous movement without stoplights helps traffic move smoothly. An additional travel lane eases congestion throughout the area. The result – fewer accidents, fewer people injured and a more reliable commute home.

What They’re Saying: Before the project, one driver who commutes for work told local news, “You don’t have very much time. Little time and little room, so you know you got to make it quick.” (Spectrum News 1, 3/10/2022).

Another said, “I definitely see the backup on the highway from where I live from the accidents on the bridge, so if it improves safety – then I guess three minutes [to do the turn around] isn’t too bad.” (Local 12 News, 03/11/22).

And …

“The improvement makes a significant difference in easing congestion at the Northbound approach to the Brent Spence Bridge by providing drivers more time to choose their lane – creating a safer drive for all.” – Jake Ryle, public information officer, KYTC – District 6 (06/05/23, written statement to ARTBA).