Repairing aging bridges is a critical aspect of infrastructure maintenance in the United States. More than a dozen aging bridges across 16 states are set to undergo repairs using $5 billion in federal grants. These bridges play a crucial role in connecting various regions and are essential for the overall economy of the country. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the significance of these bridges, stating that their condition requires urgent investment to ensure safety and efficiency.
The 13 grants allocated for bridge repairs come from the Large Bridge Program, which is part of the Infrastructure and Investment Job Act. This program, totaling $40 billion over five years, aims to address the deteriorating condition of bridges across the nation. The $5 billion allocation covers repairs for 2023, 2024, and future appropriations, with an additional $525 million in grants expected to be announced later this year.
One of the significant bridge repair projects includes the I-83 South Bridge Replacement Project in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This $500 million investment will replace a bridge originally built in 1960, connecting the capital area with Baltimore. Additionally, the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge in Wilmington, North Carolina will receive $242 million for repairs, and the America’s River Crossing project in Memphis and West Memphis, Arkansas will be funded with $394 million.
Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt highlighted the Biden administration’s goal of changing the narrative of underinvestment in infrastructure in the country. With 33 applications totaling $10 billion in funding, the FHWA aims to prioritize projects that will have a significant impact on improving infrastructure nationwide. The largest grant of $1.49 billion will go to the Oregon Department of Transportation for the replacement of aging vertical lift bridges over the Columbia River at Interstate 5.
Transportation Secretary Buttigieg underscored the importance of ensuring the safety and efficiency of bridges across the nation. By investing in the replacement of aging bridges with more resilient structures, the government aims to address critical infrastructure needs and improve the overall transportation network. Projects like the Sagamore Bridge replacement in Cape Cod, funded with $993 million, demonstrate a commitment to maintaining and upgrading essential infrastructure assets.
The investment in repairing aging bridges across the nation is a crucial step towards improving infrastructure and ensuring the safety and efficiency of transportation networks. With significant grants allocated for bridge repair projects, the Biden administration is focused on addressing critical infrastructure needs and changing the narrative of underinvestment in infrastructure. By prioritizing bridge repair and replacement projects, the government aims to create a more resilient and sustainable transportation network for the future.