By Patrick Crowley
The Cincinnati Enquirer

COVINGTON - Kentucky's gubernatorial candidates say they will support funding to replace the Interstate 75 Brent Spence Bridge over the Ohio River.

Republican candidate Ernie Fletcher, a three-term congressman from Lexington, issued a statement Tuesday that he will "continue to support the infrastructure needs of Northern Kentucky."

Earlier this year Fletcher said he joined other members of Congress from Kentucky in jointly supporting federal funding for "the renovation or replacement of the Brent Spence Bridge," a project that could cost as much as $750 million to complete. "We ... need to ensure that Northern Kentucky and other areas are getting their fair share," Fletcher said.

Democrat Ben Chandler has previously said he supported the replacement project, which will require some state funding.

Mark Nickolas, Chandler's campaign manager, reiterated the candidate's support Tuesday after learning about Fletcher's statement.

E-mail pcrowley@enquirer.com