Federal government OKs plan for Ohio River bridges

The Associated Press

1/4/2008

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The federal government has approved a plan to pay for a $4.1 billion project to build two Ohio River bridges and reconstruct a downtown Louisville interchange.

The approval clears the way for Kentucky and Indiana to start construction this year, though that doesn't mean Kentucky has the $2.9 billion it must contribute.

Funding is expected to be a contentious issue when the Kentucky General Assembly convenes next week. Kentucky would use federal and state money it receives through gasoline taxes and other revenue — an approach that has been criticized by some lawmakers for using large parts of the state's road budget.

Under the plan, Indiana intends to rely on cash from leasing the Indiana Toll Road to help cover its $1.1 billion share.