A rusting a faded bridge that connects Owensboro, Ky., to southern Indiana will be getting a badly needed paint job next year.

Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear made the announcement Wednesday in Owensboro with the Glover H. Cary Bridge, known simply as the "blue bridge" behind him.

The Messenger-Inquirer reports the project, which was originally set to occur in about four years, was fast-tracked thanks to efforts by State Rep. Tommy Thompson, a Philpot Democrat, and State Sen. Joe Bowen, an Owensboro Republican.

Beshear said their joint efforts led to the General Assembly approving funding earlier this year. In addition, he said Indiana has agreed to its share of the cost.

Transportation officials say they expect a contract to be awarded in February.