Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced the awarding of $6.5 million in funding for 10 critical bridge projects across the state.
The projects in eight counties and two cities will help repair, replace or reopen locally-owned bridges, he said and help get the state moving safely and quickly.
“These projects are about more than just infrastructure, they’re about the people they connect and the opportunities they create,” said Gov. Beshear. “By investing in these improvements, we are supporting commerce, tourism and job creation in these communities for years to come.”
The funding comes from Team Kentucky’s County and City Bridge Improvement Program which provides funding to local governments. Since its first round of funding in 2025, the program has awarded more than $5 million. This sixth round of funds will help pay for nine bridge replacements and one bridge repair. Four of the bridges are currently closed and the others have weight restrictions.
Projects were reviewed by engineers with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) to ensure the funded projects were the most effective solutions.
“Our local bridges provide vital connections across the Commonwealth,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Keeping them safe and accessible is our commitment to every Kentuckian in every community.”
Among the local governments receiving awards were the City of Mayfield, which received $810,000 to replace the Bellemeade Drive bridge. Officials said those funds will restore access for vehicles weighing more than 3 tons, reducing travel time and improving traffic flow for motorists.
“Last fall, we learned that this bridge had been downgraded from an 18-ton capability to a 3-ton,” Mayfield Mayor Kathy O’Nan said. “Immediately, our public works department got to work on a temporary fix to bring it back up to an 18-ton capability.”
Another award went to Anderson County Fiscal Court. It received nearly $750,000 to replace the Crawford Road bridge with a stronger metal deck. That bridge is currently closed. The new bridge will reestablish a safe route for local travelers and hay delivery to cattle farms, officials said.
“We don’t have funds locally to afford a project like this, but thankfully, with this program, we’re going to get this bridge replaced,” Anderson County Judge/Executive Orbrey Gritton said. “It’s a major thoroughfare that cuts miles off travel, farmers use it to gain access to their farms, and we’re hopeful this program will continue to serve our county and many others like ours.”