KYTC recently examined the feasibility of a regional project that would include a crossing upriver connecting US 60 between Barlow, KY and near Future City, IL. After due diligence was spent considering this location, it has been determined that the preferred alternative is the US 51 Bridge project and the US 60 project will not be moving forward.

Several studies were completed, including the recent US 60 study, to determine the best location for the new bridge. The preferred alternative for the project is a new bridge located approximately 980 feet upstream of the existing bridge. This location will preserve the current connectivity between communities on each side of the river.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will be splitting the cost of the project through state and federal funds. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is the lead agency on this project and will oversee the contracts for design and construction of the overall project. Illinois is jointly participating in the outcome of the project. Funds for construction of the new bridge and other improvements have not been allocated to this project.

Construction is estimated at nearly $500 million adjusted to inflation in 2030.

No. Tolling is not currently being considered as part of this project.

A tied arch bridge was determined to have the least cost, better constructability, and long-term maintenance and inspection benefits compared to those of the other types of bridges that were considered. Learn more about the new bridge.

No.  Based on detailed traffic analysis, only two lanes are necessary to support current and future traffic. Funding limitations require that all projects must consider appropriate solutions given projected needs.

The bridge is expected to be a two-lane bridge, with 12-foot lanes and 8-foot shoulders. The wider lanes and shoulders will allow the new bridge to accommodate more vehicle types, including consideration for farm equipment.

The project timeline will be driven by funding and the condition of the bridge. Construction is not expected until the year 2028 or beyond.

The environmental analysis has selected the option that minimizes the impact on environmentally sensitive areas. The potential impacts of the project alternatives were fully vetted through the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process as shown in the approved environmental document. The project team will continue to avoid and minimize environmental impacts as the project moves through final design and permitting.

The project will continue to assess and investigate the flooding conditions in this complex hydraulics area. The project team is aware and sensitive to the challenges the public is experiencing from flooding.

River navigation uses and vessel size have changed significantly since the bridge was opened in 1938, and it is unlikely the original design considered vessel collision. The existing bridge has been struck with glancing blows multiple times throughout the years and withstood those collisions. Applying current bridge design standards would however indicate there is a probability of damage that could cause the bridge to be shut down due to collision.

Yes, seismic studies will be completed for the new bridge. The bridge will be designed for a 100-year operational life and to resist a 1000-year seismic/earthquake event.

The CAG/EJ is a small group of individuals selected to represent key stakeholders and community interest groups. To date, three meetings have been held with the CAG/EJ committee to share information about the project. The CAG/EJ group will continue to be engaged throughout final design, land acquisition, and construction.

A roundabout is a type of circular intersection in which road traffic is permitted to flow in one direction around a central island, and priority is typically given to traffic already in the junction. It is more efficient than a 4-way stop signal, improves safety by reducing severe and fatal crashes, and oftentimes serves as a focal point for the community. The roundabout will accommodate freight traffic and emergency vehicles navigating through the intersection. The roundabout is designed to accommodate a combination semi-tractor and 53-foot trailer (AASHTO WB 67, largest trucks on the interstate) and some oversized loads that might travel through the intersection.

The current ongoing rehabilitation work on this bridge will continue until Late Fall. It is anticipated to reopen in September or October of 2024.

After the requirements of the Kentucky State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) are satisfied, the old bridge will be demolished.