Every couple of months I ride my bicycle from Newport to KI. I have noticed a lot of road work this year near the employee entrance on Western Row. Anyone know how that is coming along? Is Western Row open yet or am I going to have to go up to Columbia?

The Western Row construction area isn't "finished" per se, but it has reopened.  Columbia was relocated to be past Kings Island's new employee entrance (new entrance being about 500' further towards Maineville.)  I think you'll be fine.

Just for fun - what route do you take biking all the way from Newport to KI?  How long does that take?

I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride my bike!

I couldn't resist 

Normally, I come across the Purple People Bridge, out River to Lunken and Armleder. From there it is mixed traffic on Wooster to US 50. I catch the Little Miami Trail at Fifty West and follow that to Mainville trail head just south of Peters Cartridge. Hard bit begins there as I climb Socialville Foster to Western Row. Normally takes me about 2.5 hours for a 35 mile ride.

Generally, I am out on the roads early enough that traffic isn't a big issue. US Bank has an office block at the end of Armleder that can get busy and Mariemont can get a little tight. The climb out of the trail isn't too bad for me, but I am an avid rider. It is absolutely gorgeous as you climb along Simpson creek. I really get the theming for The Beast and WWC climbing Socialville.

Just following up. They widened Western Row as it approaches the park and unless they stripe it weird it is super roomy to share with cars. A great day at the park with light crowds. Thank you for the update and hope to see you at the park.