Drones Installed to Monitor Brent Spence Bridge Construction in Cincinnati
In Cincinnati, Ohio, the Department of Transportation (ODOT) has set up advanced drone systems on the roof of Longworth Hall. These drones are part of the ongoing construction efforts for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor, a project valued at $4.05 billion. This initiative is part of DriveOhio, which focuses on smart mobility in the state.
Two drone docking stations have been installed, allowing ODOT operators to remotely launch these flying devices. According to a report from State Aviation Journal, the drones provide live footage to help monitor construction progress and conduct bridge inspections, marking this as one of the most significant projects in ODOT’s history.
How the Drones Work
The drone-in-a-box systems enable these aircraft to stay in a designated area. Operators can remotely launch them to gather information necessary for the project. Additionally, these drones can follow pre-set flight paths and return to their docking station for recharging, as explained in a March newsletter from DriveOhio. Their early involvement in the construction process allows for real-time data that aids in planning and inspections.
Project Highlights
- $4.05 billion: Cost of the first phase of the Brent Spence Bridge project.
- $4.39 billion: Total estimated cost including design and engineering efforts.
- $1.6 billion: Federal grants received for the project.
- 8 miles: Length of the full corridor, with some work estimated to be completed later.
- 6 million: Anticipated work hours over the duration of the project.
- 700+: Skilled workers expected to be involved, with numbers possibly reaching 1,000 at peak times.
- 2031: Expected opening year for the new companion bridge.
- 2033: Anticipated completion date for the approach work.
About Longworth Hall
Longworth Hall, built in 1904 and recognized as a historical site, was acquired by ODOT in 2023 to serve as the project headquarters. This spring, crews began demolishing part of the building to prepare for the new bridge, next to the existing Brent Spence Bridge. The project was officially launched in May by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear.
The first drone-in-a-box system was installed in Springfield in 2025 as part of an initiative to integrate this technology into ODOT’s future projects. The drones were subsequently placed on Longworth Hall’s roof in March 2026.
ODOT’s Drone Program
Founded in 2013, the Ohio UAS Center boasts a fleet of nearly 100 drones, including specialized equipment for underwater inspections and even robotic devices for culvert checks. ODOT employs over 40 certified drone operators throughout Ohio, using these aircraft for various purposes such as bridge inspections, construction oversight, mapping, and emergency response activities.
This innovative use of drone technology in construction monitoring is set to improve efficiency and safety in the expansive Brent Spence Bridge project.
