The nearly century-old Fourth Street Bridge — a longstanding connection between Covington and Newport — is scheduled for demolition marking the end of an era for the Northern Kentucky riverfront and the beginning of a new chapter in regional infrastructure.
Demolition Scheduled for 10:00 AM
The Fourth Street Bridge, which has linked the two riverfront communities for nearly 100 years, will be brought down at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026. Officials have confirmed that explosives will be used to carry out the demolition in a controlled and carefully coordinated operation.
Beginning at 9:00 a.m., construction crews and local law enforcement closed off an area extending approximately 1,000 feet around the bridge. Authorities established a secure perimeter to protect residents, motorists, and onlookers during the blast and the immediate debris settlement period.
Police will maintain the restricted zone until engineers determine the site is safe to reopen.
Officials emphasized that the use of explosives is a standard and efficient method for large-scale structural demolition, allowing for a quicker and more precise takedown compared to mechanical dismantling.
Once the bridge falls into the river, C&B Marine Barges with Cranes will pick up the pieces and get everything cleaned up within a matter of days.
A Modern Replacement on the Way
While the demolition marks the end of a historic structure, plans for its replacement reflect significant upgrades for the region’s transportation network.
The new bridge will feature three prominent steel arches and a total of four traffic lanes — two lanes in each direction — improving vehicle capacity and traffic flow between Covington and Newport. In addition to expanded roadway access, the structure will include dedicated pedestrian walkways and bike paths on both sides of the bridge, enhancing safety and connectivity for non-motorized travelers.
The updated design reflects a broader emphasis on multimodal transportation, accessibility, and long-term durability. Officials say the project positions the corridor to better serve residents, commuters, and visitors for decades to come.
Construction on the new bridge will begin later this spring, with the bridge expected to open by the summer of 2028.