After years of limping along on a nearly 100-year-old span with weight limits and a "poor" rating from inspectors, the Brighton Approach Bridge is finally on the verge of a fresh start. The new structure is expected to reopen soon, restoring a direct crossing over Central Parkway and reconnecting Uptown-area routes with the West End and Over-the-Rhine.
City officials are planning to open the span soon, according to Cincinnati Business Courier. The outlet reports that crews have already moved through demolition and deck-replacement phases that kicked off in 2024.
Bridge Cost, Condition and Timeline
The original Brighton Approach Bridge dated back to around 1926. It carried roughly 750 vehicles and about 40 pedestrians each day and had an overall condition rating of "poor" before the replacement project began, according to the city's Alternatives Evaluation Report.
Construction on a single-span replacement started in early 2024. The work was budgeted at about $8 million, with $3.2 million in city capital, $2.8 million from Ohio Public Works Commission grants and $2 million in federal funds, according to the City of Cincinnati Department of Transportation & Engineering.
The updated design widens sidewalks, increases vertical clearance over Central Parkway and is intended to remove the posted weight limits that constrained the old span.
Traffic Headaches and Neighborhood Impacts
Construction has not exactly been subtle. Work on the bridge triggered intermittent weekend closures and detours on Central Parkway and around the Western Hills Viaduct, which at times snarled local commutes. Earlier coverage highlighted those short-term growing pains for nearby residents and drivers, with demolition and beam work prompting specific detour schedules that were flagged for weekend traffic.
What To Watch
Officials have not released an exact public opening date, but local reporting points to the city throwing the gates open in the near future. Neighbors and commuters should keep an eye on city traffic alerts and local coverage for the official announcement and any remaining detours while crews wrap up punch-list items, landscaping and signage.
