Gov. Matt Bevin Signs P3 Bill in Kentucky

Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin signed a bill April 8 that would permit public-private partnerships, including those for transportation projects.

Bevin

“The successful passage of P3 legislation has been a long time coming,” according to a statement from Bevin’s office. “This bill provides a legal framework for public-private partnerships in Kentucky, signaling our intention to work collaboratively with the private sector. Additionally, this legislation provides a great opportunity to modernize our parks system to increase tourism.

"Our administration worked closely with legislators to ensure adequate protections for taxpayers were included. Kentucky’s new P3 law will protect Kentucky taxpayers, while simultaneously providing additional opportunities to deliver projects and services to our citizens with the help of private sector partners.”

The bill, which was sponsored by state Rep. Leslie Combs, contains an exemption that would prevent tolling the Brent Spence Bridge, which spans the Ohio River between Kentucky and Ohio.

Combs had been pushing P3 legislation for four years. The Kentucky Trucking Association supported the bill.