It will take 40 years to repair the number of structurally deficient U.S. bridges, analysis finds

More than 220,000 U.S. bridges need major repair work or should be replaced; however, at the current pace of rehabilitation, it would take four decades to repair the current backlog of structurally deficient bridges nationally, according to an analysis from the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA).

Bridge decks and support structures are regularly inspected by the state transportation departments for deterioration and are rated on a scale of zero to nine — nine being “excellent” condition, reported ARTBA. A bridge is classified as structurally deficient and in need of repair if its overall rating is four or below.

“The current 40-year timeline to repair bridges in poor condition is an unacceptable outcome for the American motoring public,” said Alison Premo Black, chief economist of ARTBA. “Our bridge report highlights key nati