The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky will be updating its Licking River Link bus route to include new stop locations in Newport to provide improved service to riders in both Newport and Covington.
The route change will take effect on Saturday, July 11.
The bus route, offered at no cost to riders, is intended to provide a viable transportation option for pedestrians and bicyclists who relied on the KY 8 Licking River Bridge, which was closed and demolished, as part of the replacement project. This service focuses on providing a connection to basic and essential needs for commuters – like daycare, employment and groceries
“The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is committed to working with TANK to review the Licking River Link bus route throughout the duration of the bridge replacement project,” KYTC District 6 Chief District Engineer Bob Yeager said. “This collaborative effort is an example of how we’re being good neighbors focused on meeting the needs of the riders in Covington and Newport.”
Bus route and stop locations – effective Saturday
The new route will include additional stops, and utilize the downtown Newport Monmouth St. corridor. The existing bus stop locations in Covington will remain in place.
Beginning Saturday, July 11, the bus will stop at the following locations along the new route:
In Newport:
• 11th Street at York Street
• Monmouth Street at 9th Street
• Monmouth Street at 7th Street
• 4th Street at Columbia Street
• Isabella at 6th Street
• Isabella at 9th Street
The bus stops currently in place at Central and 8th Street, and Central at 10th Street will no longer be in service effective Saturday, July 11.
In Covington:
• Greenup Street at 9th Street
• Greenup Street at 5th Street
• Scott Street at 6th Street
• Scott Street at 11th Street
Hours of Operation
The route will continue to operate seven days a week:
• Weekdays: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Weekends: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The bus will complete a loop once every 30 minutes during operating hours.The vehicle features an installed bike rack to encourage first and last-mile mobility connections for riders. The bus will also provide wheelchair accessibility.
This bus route will remain in operation until the new bridge is constructed, which is expected to take place as early as Summer 2028.
More information about the Licking River Link can be found on TANK’s website.
Bridge Construction Timeline
The KY 8 Licking River Bridge closed in January 2026 to provide time for utility relocations. The former bridge was demolished in March 2026 to make way for the construction of a new crossing. Substructure construction of the bridge is currently underway. Construction of the new bridge is expected to last approximately two-and-a-half years with the bridge reopening to traffic by Summer 2028. The project is expected to be completed as early as Fall 2028.
More information about the KY 8 Licking River Bridge Replacement Project can be found on the project website.
Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky