The City of Newport has approved two contracts to advance structural repairs on the Purple People Bridge, the iconic pedestrian span connecting Newport with Cincinnati.
The action represents the first tangible construction progress on the bridge since the City assumed full ownership in 2025 and marks a critical step in stabilizing and preserving one of the region’s most recognizable landmarks.
In 2024, the Purple People Bridge was temporarily closed after structural concerns were identified near Truss C and Truss D on the Ohio approach side of the bridge. Following evaluation, the bridge was reopened with temporary shoring installed to safely support the structure while longer-term repairs were planned.
In 2025, the City of Newport assumed full ownership of the bridge from the Purple People Bridge Company, which had previously been a partnership between the City of Newport and Southbank Partners. Taking full ownership allowed the City to move forward directly with repairs and long-term maintenance planning.
“The Purple People Bridge is one of our region’s most beloved landmarks, and the City of Newport is committed to ensuring it remains safe, accessible, and preserved for future generations. These contracts move us from temporary measures to permanent solutions, and they reflect what Newport can accomplish when lead and act decisively on behalf of our residents,” said Tommy Guidugli, Mayor of Newport.
The Newport City Commission has approved two contracts to carry out the repair work:
Construction – Structural Systems Repair Group, LLC: The lowest responsible bidder will perform abutment repairs and bearing rehabilitation on Truss C and Truss D. Work includes removal of deteriorated sandstone pier and bearing materials, installation of reinforced concrete repairs, replacement of bearing components, and associated structural stabilization. The contract shall not exceed $331,786, with an anticipated cost of approximately $272,741 for the base scope and first alternate.
Engineering services – WSP Engineering: WSP Engineering, which previously conducted the structural investigation that identified the required repairs, will provide design services and construction-phase engineering support including structural design, preparation of repair drawings and specifications, and review of contractor submittals. The agreement shall not exceed $72,280.
The Purple People Bridge remains safe and open to the public. The bridge is currently supported by temporary structural shoring installed as a precautionary measure. Once the structural repairs are completed, the temporary shoring will be removed.
“The Purple People Bridge remains safe and open today, but it is currently supported by temporary shoring that costs the City about $9,000 per month. These repairs address the underlying structural issues and represent the first tangible progress on the bridge since the City assumed full ownership in 2025,” Brian Steffen, assistant city manager, City of Newport.
The temporary support system currently costs the City approximately $9,000 per month. Completing the structural repairs will eliminate this ongoing expense. Funding for the repair work will come from MeetNKY ($75,000), BeNKY ($105,000), and city project funds, with ongoing efforts to recoup the remaining balance continuing.
This project represents the first step in a longer-term strategy to stabilize and preserve the Purple People Bridge for future generations. The City of Newport views the bridge not only as critical regional infrastructure, but as a symbol of cross-river partnership between Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati.
City of Newport