The U.S. Department of Transportation signed a $20 million grant agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the Indiana Department of Transportation to replace the Milton-Madison Bridge (U.S. 421), which has a total estimated replacement cost of $129.6 million.
The bridge provides a vital link between two economically distressed communities: Milton, Ky., and Madison, Ind. If taken out of service, it would result in detours and increased commuting costs for residents on both sides of the river.
“Replacing the Milton-Madison Bridge will create jobs, bring these communities closer together and make them better places in which to live.” said Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood.
The $20 million grant is from the U.S. DOT TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) program, which is included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to promote innovative, multimodal and multijurisdictional transportation projects that provide significant economic and environmental benefits to an entire metropolitan area, region or the nation.
Originally constructed in 1929, the Milton-Madison Bridge, with 10,700 vehicles crossing it daily, has less than 10 years of estimated serviceable life.
“Replacing this bridge has been a top priority,” Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez said. “Recovery Act funds will help us tackle transportation challenges that are unique and require dedicated attention.” The new bridge also will have a new bicycle and pedestrian access between the two communities for alternative forms of transportation.
