Louisville, Kentucky, January 8, 2026
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has announced an overnight closure of all southbound lanes on the Kennedy Bridge to facilitate an ongoing expansion joint replacement project. The closure will begin at 8 p.m. on January 9 and will continue until 10 a.m. on January 10. Motorists are advised to use a designated detour route to minimize disruptions. This $7 million project is critical for maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity and safety.
Overnight Closure of I-65 Southbound on Kennedy Bridge Scheduled for January 9-10, 2026
Louisville, Kentucky – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has announced a scheduled overnight closure of all southbound lanes on the Kennedy Bridge (I-65 South) to facilitate the ongoing bridge expansion joint replacement project. The closure is set to begin at 8 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, and will continue until 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026. This closure will affect all lanes of I-65 South just past Exit 1 to U.S. 31 South (Stansifer Avenue/10th Street) in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Drivers are advised to plan accordingly and seek alternative routes during this period.
Detour Information
Motorists traveling southbound on I-65 are advised to use the following detour route:
- Take I-265 West to I-64 East
- Reconnect with I-65 South via I-64 East
This detour is designed to minimize disruptions and maintain traffic flow during the closure. Drivers should follow posted signs and exercise caution when navigating the detour route.
Project Background
The closure is part of a $7 million project aimed at replacing aging expansion joints on the Kennedy Bridge. The project commenced in 2025 and is expected to be completed by April 2026. The work involves replacing expansion joints in the left three lanes of I-65 South, with the current closure focusing on the right three lanes and shoulder. These repairs are essential to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the bridge, which serves as a critical connection between Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana. The Kennedy Bridge, a six-lane cantilever bridge, has been in operation since its opening in 1963 and continues to be a vital component of the region’s transportation infrastructure.
Impact on Commuters
Commuters are advised to anticipate increased travel times and plan their routes accordingly. The KYTC recommends staying informed about the project’s progress and any additional closures or detours by visiting their official website or local news outlets. While the project aims to enhance the bridge’s longevity and safety, drivers should remain vigilant and adhere to all traffic signs and signals in the construction zone.
Weather Considerations
Weather conditions can significantly impact construction schedules. As of January 8, 2026, the forecast for Louisville, Kentucky, indicates cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 37°F (3°C) to 66°F (19°C) over the weekend. While the project is scheduled to proceed as planned, adverse weather conditions may lead to delays. Motorists should monitor local weather forecasts and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Additional Information
For more details on the Kennedy Bridge expansion joint replacement project, including updates on future closures and detours, please refer to the official KYTC website or contact their customer service center. Staying informed will help ensure a smoother commute during the construction period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the reason for the overnight closure of I-65 South on the Kennedy Bridge?
The closure is part of a $7 million project to replace aging expansion joints on the Kennedy Bridge, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The project began in 2025 and is expected to be completed by April 2026.
When will the closure occur?
The closure is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, and will continue until 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
What is the recommended detour route during the closure?
Motorists should take I-265 West to I-64 East to reconnect with I-65 South.
How long is the Kennedy Bridge expected to be under construction?
The construction project is expected to be completed by April 2026.
How can I stay informed about the project’s progress and any additional closures?
For updates on the Kennedy Bridge expansion joint replacement project, please refer to the official KYTC website or contact their customer service center.
Key Features of the Kennedy Bridge Expansion Joint Replacement Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $7 million |
| Project Start Date | 2025 |
| Expected Completion Date | April 2026 |
| Scope of Work | Replacement of expansion joints in the left three lanes of I-65 South on the Kennedy Bridge |
| Detour Route | I-265 West to I-64 East to reconnect with I-65 South |
| Bridge Details | Six-lane cantilever bridge connecting Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana; opened in 1963 |
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