Brent spence bridge's long-awaited replacement kicks off, but at a hefty price

After decades of gridlock and failed attempts, construction has finally begun on a companion bridge in Kentucky to alleviate the notorious Brent Spence Bridge's congestion.

Billions invested, but at what cost to the community?

At a whopping $3 billion, the project is set to be completed by 2031, providing much-needed relief to the 85,000 daily vehicles that currently traverse the rickety, narrow lanes of the aging bridge.

However, the new bridge's construction comes at a steep price for local residents. In Covington, Kentucky, many will be displaced as a result of the project, with some areas losing green spaces in favor of expanded highway areas.

Environmental concerns are also rampant, with increased air pollution expected due to the higher volume of traffic the new bridge will allow. Five years ago, the original bridge was shut down for 41 days following a chemical spill, highlighting the dire need for a safer, more efficient route.

Despite the benefits, critics argue the project's $3 billion price tag could be better spent on housing and other community needs. Cincinnati's West End, already grappling with gentrification and rising rent prices, is set to see an additional $441 million spent on the project's highway expansion.

As the first pieces of asphalt are laid, the project's original estimated cost has already ballooned by $800 million, leading to fears that the final bill could be even higher for taxpayers.