That’s a wrap! After three years of work in Henderson, Section 1 is substantially complete. The project, which included the approach work in Kentucky, finished on budget and on schedule.
Gov. Andy Beshear and local leaders celebrated with a ribbon cutting in November 2025.
One Step Closer to the Crossing: An ORX Celebration followed in the afternoon. Participants were able to walk or bike nearly two miles of the new KY 3690 roadway while learning fun facts about the project along the way. Participants also received commemorative medallions.
Three final major elements of the project opened to traffic late last year, including more than two miles of new KY 3690 (future I-69) roadway, the new U.S. 60 interchange in its final configuration, and the new U.S. 41 interchange in its long-term interim configuration.
Construction of the future I-69 bridge is expected to begin in spring 2027.
ORX Section 2 will be a design-build project, allowing final design and construction to occur simultaneously, saving time and often identifying efficiencies to save costs. Construction is expected to be complete in 2031.
The procurement process is underway, and the Section 2 contract is expected to be awarded in late 2026. Three shortlisted proposers were identified in late 2025.
Kentucky and Indiana entered into a Bi-State Development Agreement to construct the I-69 bridge in late 2025. The bridge will be owned equally by both states, consistent with the historic shared ownership of bridges.
A lot of progress is being made on Section 3 and construction in Evansville is 75% complete! Three new approach bridges are taking shape. The project is on budget and on schedule and is expected to be complete by the end of the year.
Beams for the third and final approach bridge were delivered and set this month. The three
bridges include a total of nearly 200 concrete beams ranging in length from 125 feet to 188 feet. The beams are among the largest precast concrete beams used in any construction project in the Midwest.
Bridge deck pours will continue this spring with warmer temperatures. The largest pours will each last around 12 hours and require around 185 truckloads of concrete.
Bridges under construction mark the path to the future I-69 bridge and will provide all-weather access for crews to build the new bridge. The approach bridges and roadways in Evansville will open to traffic after the new I-69 bridge is complete.
New and Improved Project Website
Check out your one-stop for traffic news and updates on the developing project at I69OhioRiverCrossing.com. Recent updates include more progress updates and photos. While you’re there, sign up to receive project updates by text or email and follow us on Facebook and X.
