The U.S. Department of Transportation announced a bridge repair program Friday that will deliver almost $850 million to California to fix spans in poor condition. The funding comes from the new infrastructure bill President Joe Biden signed in November.
California will receive $849.4 million this fiscal year – more than double the amount of any other state – and an estimated total of $4.2 billion over five years, to address highway bridge needs, according to Caltrans.
Caltrans and local transportation agencies will target the funds to improve the nearly 1,500 bridges rated in “poor” condition in the state.
Caltrans inspects every bridge in California at least every two years, and these inspectors rate bridges “good,” “fair,” or “poor” based on issues such as cracks, concrete loss, and the need to repaint. Bridges are prioritized for maintenance based on their condition. A poor rating – while not an indication that the bridge is unsound – signals the need to prioritize the bridge’s maintenance.
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