NEWPORT, Ky. — Newport announced that it has formally assumed ownership of the Purple People Bridge.
The announcement follows a unanimous vote by the Purple People Bridge Company Board of Directors at a special meeting on Wednesday.
“Nearly 700,000 people cross the bridge each year, making it the most utilized recreational trail in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky,” per a press release from the city.
“Today’s transfer is both historic and forward-looking,” said Newport City Manager John Hayden in the release. “The city of Newport is grateful for the partnership with Southbank Partners in creating the Purple People Bridge Company two decades ago. We are appreciative of the bridge company’s stewardship and proud to carry the bridge into its next chapter.”
The Purple People Bridge is one of the region’s most iconic landmarks, connecting communities across the Ohio River for over 150 years. However, just over two decades ago, its future was uncertain, with demolition being considered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet due to its condition and the limited capacity to serve vehicular traffic.
In 2005, to protect and preserve the bridge, Southbank Partners and the city of Newport formed the Purple People Bridge Company. This not only saved the bridge but also transformed it into a destination for residents and visitors.
Southbank Partners President and CEO, Will Weber, highlighted the continuity of the bridge’s legacy, noting the importance of sustained investment and regional collaboration.
“For 20 years, Southbank Partners and city of Newport have worked side-by-side through the creation of the Bridge Company in order to initially save this regional asset – and then continue to maintain, preserve, and enhance the bridge,” Weber said. “With Newport now assuming ownership and the commitment of public investment, the bridge is well positioned for the future. With the greater density of people and ongoing developments near the riverfront – this bridge is even more important now than it was 20 years ago. As a piece of critical public infrastructure, this bridge belongs to, and benefits, everyone in our region.”
With the city of Newport now the sole owner, officials will focus on securing resources and partnerships to stabilize and enhance the bridge. Broad community and regional input will guide the long-term vision. Over the coming months, the bridge company will work with the city for a smooth transition.
Nationally recognized as one of the most pedestrian-friendly bridges in the country, nearly 700,000 people cross the bridge each year.
Newport resident and member of the Bridge Company Board of Directors, Lynn Schaber, told LINK nky she uses the Purple People Bridge daily.
“I cross that bridge almost every day, often multiple times,” Schaber said. “Either as part of my exercise routine running, walking, biking or to access entertainment like sports or food on the other side of the river. I’m thrilled that the city is taking such an active role in this regional gem.”
The transition of ownership is like the one from the Southbank Shuttle to the Transportation Authority of Northern Kentucky, better known as TANK, for its long-term sustainability and expansion of the route to serve the Northern Kentucky river cities.
Newport is committed to the Purple People Bridge’s future. With the continued support of Southbank and other regional partners, it plans to secure the resources necessary to preserve, enhance, and maximize the bridge’s potential for future generations.
“This is a new day for Newport and an exciting opportunity for our community,” said Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli Jr. “Re-envisioning the Purple People Bridge with new regional partners marks a significant step forward, and we’re thrilled to embrace the possibilities this iconic landmark brings to connect our city, foster vibrancy and create lasting memories for all who cross it.”
Background and a timeline of the Purple People Bridge:
1872 – The Newport & Cincinnati Bridge
- Opened April 1, 1872, seven years after the Civil War.
- First railroad bridge between Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
- Originally owned by Little Miami Railroad.
1904 – The L&N Railroad Bridge
- Renamed for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad.
- Modified for automobile traffic; streetcars ran until the 1940s.
- Center track became a pedestrian walkway after streetcars ceased.
- Closed to rail in 1987; became known for its “blue-and-rust” look in the 1990s.
2001 – The Newport Southbank Bridge
- Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and closed to automobiles.
- Kentucky Legislature allocated $4M for restoration.
- CSX donated its portion to Southbank Partners; Kentucky transferred its portion to the city of Newport.
2022 – The Purple People Bridge
- Officially renamed in honor of its original 1872 opening.
- Celebrated its 150th anniversary with a year-long event.
LINK nky is a media partner of WCPO.com.
