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Louisville, Kentucky- Officials in Kentucky and Indiana announced Saturday afternoon a new toll program is expected to begin in 2027 for pedestrians and recreational traffic using the Big Four Bridge connecting Louisville and Jeffersonville.

Under the proposed program, pedestrians crossing the bridge would be charged $3 each way, while individuals using bicycles, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, or similar devices would pay $4 per crossing.

Officials say the program is being introduced to help offset rising operational and maintenance costs tied to the popular pedestrian bridge, including lighting upgrades, structural inspections, security patrols, cleaning services, and emergency response improvements.

According to transportation officials, toll collection systems would likely be installed near both entrance points of the bridge before the 2027 launch date. Electronic payment methods and app-based access systems are also expected to be included as part of the rollout.

Officials also announced a proposed specialized enforcement division tentatively referred to as the “Bridge Safety Patrol Unit,” which would reportedly assist with enforcing toll compliance, pedestrian safety regulations, emergency response calls, and security operations along the bridge.

The announcement immediately generated strong reactions online, with some residents supporting the proposal as a way to maintain and improve the bridge long-term, while others criticized the idea of charging residents and tourists to walk between Kentucky and Indiana.

Officials say additional public meetings and discussions regarding the proposal are expected throughout 2026 before final implementation plans are approved.

Traffic and pedestrian studies connected to the toll proposal are reportedly already underway.

The Big Four Bridge remains one of the most visited attractions in the Louisville metro area, drawing thousands of pedestrians, cyclists, and visitors weekly.

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