William H. Natcher Bridge

The William H. Natcher Bridge is a cable-stayed structure that spans the Ohio River between Owensboro, Kentucky and Rockport, Indiana. Two concrete towers support the main span, which handles traffic on US Highway 231 crossing from state to state.

Construction started in 1998 and the bridge opened to traffic in 2002, creating a major crossing for the region. It was built to handle growing transportation needs between the two states where previous options had become inadequate.

The bridge received its name from William Huston Natcher, who represented Kentucky's 2nd Congressional District from 1954 until 1994.

The bridge is open daily for vehicle traffic and provides a straightforward crossing between the two states without delay. The highway is clearly marked and easy to navigate for drivers heading between Owensboro and Rockport.

The bridge holds the distinction of being the longest cable-stayed structure over any inland waterway system in the United States.

Location: Kentucky

Location: Indiana

Inception: October 21, 2002

Official opening: October 21, 2002

GPS coordinates: 37.90120,-87.03390

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:10