In a recent announcement, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg revealed that more than a dozen aging bridges in 16 states will benefit from $5 billion in federal grants. These bridges play a crucial role in supporting not only the regions they are located in but also the overall U.S. economy. According to Buttigieg, these spans are “some of the most economically significant bridges in America” and their current condition necessitates immediate investment.
The grants, part of the Infrastructure and Investment Job Act’s competitive Bridge Investment Program, total $40 billion over five years. The $5 billion allocation is designated for repairs in the years 2023, 2024, and future appropriations. The Biden administration also plans to announce an additional $525 million in grants later this year. Notably, the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which recently collapsed, is not included in these grants as emergency relief funds are anticipated to cover the repairs.
Making Strides in Infrastructure Development
Under the Biden administration, significant progress has been made in improving the condition of bridges across the country. Buttigieg stated that since Biden took office, there are now 3,000 fewer bridges in poor condition compared to the initial count of 45,000. This investment in infrastructure marks the beginning of the administration’s third “Investing in America” tour, where cabinet members will highlight the impact of these investments on communities nationwide.
Investment in Key Projects
During the tour, Buttigieg will announce a $500 million investment in the I-83 South Bridge Replacement Project in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This project aims to replace a bridge constructed in 1960 that links the capital area with Baltimore. Additionally, Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt will be in North Carolina to announce a $242 million grant for the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge in Wilmington. He will also travel to Tennessee to showcase the $394 million America’s River Crossing project in Memphis and West Memphis, Arkansas, which will replace a 75-year-old span over the I-55 at the Mississippi River.
Addressing Underinvestment in Infrastructure
The funding allocated by the Biden administration is part of a broader effort to shift the narrative of underinvestment in infrastructure in the United States. Bhatt highlighted that the Federal Highway Administration received 33 applications totaling $10 billion in funding in this round alone. The largest grant, amounting to $1.49 billion, will be awarded to the Oregon Department of Transportation to replace two aging vertical lift bridges over the Columbia River. These new spans will be seismically resilient and will cater to various modes of transportation, including driving, walking, biking, and transit.
Buttigieg emphasized the urgent need for these infrastructure investments, citing his experience touring the I-5 bridge between Oregon and Washington. He noted the vibrations on the outdated span, originally designed for horses and cars, and highlighted the severe trucking bottleneck in the region. Other projects receiving funding include the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s $993 million grant to replace the Sagamore Bridge in Cape Cod, a crucial infrastructure improvement that was also recognized with a $372 million Mega grant earlier this year.
Overall, the investment in repairing and replacing aging bridges across the country is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety, efficiency, and economic development of communities nationwide. By addressing these infrastructure needs, the government is not only improving transportation networks but also creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.