Covington businesses worry about construction impacts as Brent Spence project moves forward

June 10, 2026 - 03:39

Local shop owners in Covington are voicing serious concerns as the massive Brent Spence Bridge corridor project enters its next phase, bringing lane closures and detours that could last for years. With construction equipment now visible and traffic patterns shifting almost weekly, many fear the prolonged work will scare off customers and cut into already thin profit margins.

In response, city officials have launched a $750,000 marketing campaign aimed at keeping foot traffic flowing to downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. The initiative includes digital ads, signage directing drivers to open businesses, and special promotions designed to lure commuters off the highway and into local stores. "We know this is going to be painful, but we cannot afford to let our small businesses wither," said a city spokesperson during a press conference Tuesday.

The Brent Spence project, which will eventually add a new bridge and overhaul miles of interstate, is expected to take nearly a decade to complete. For now, the immediate pain points are the sudden road closures and reduced access to key shopping districts. Some business owners say the city's marketing push is a good start, but they worry it will not be enough to cover the revenue lost during the heaviest construction periods. Others are calling for direct financial relief, such as grants or tax breaks, to help them survive the long haul.