NTSB flags 68 bridges at risk of collapse across the U.S

In a critical investigation following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in March 2024, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has identified 68 bridges across 19 states in the United States that are potentially at risk of collapse. This report highlights that many of these bridges were built before the introduction of required vulnerability assessments in 1994, raising concerns about their structural integrity and safety standards. Landmark bridges like the Golden Gate Bridge in California and the Brooklyn Bridge in New York are among those flagged with 'unknown levels' of collapse risk, signaling urgent attention needed from bridge owners. As part of the assessment recommendations, the NTSB urged the owners of these bridges to evaluate whether their risk levels exceed the acceptable thresholds outlined by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The board suggested that bridge owners create and implement comprehensive risk reduction plans that would help ensure the safety of both the structures and the vessels in the surrounding waterways. In particular, the NTSB emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures rather than waiting to identify issues after incidents occur, as demonstrated by the tragedy of the Key Bridge collapse. Jennifer Homendy, the NTSB Chair, criticized the Maryland Transportation Authority for failing to conduct the necessary vulnerability assessments that could have indicated the significant risks the Key Bridge faced from ship strikes. She pointed out that the Key Bridge was found to be 30 times above the acceptable risk threshold, highlighting a concerning lack of accountability and urgency over bridge safety in Maryland. The NTSB has indicated the need for immediate action to bolster safety measures on at-risk bridges as the report's findings do not suggest that these structures are certain to collapse, but rather they require thorough inspection and assessment to ascertain their condition. The report not only underscores the significance of structural assessments in safeguarding public safety but also reflects a broader trend of neglect concerning infrastructure maintenance in the U.S. The NTSB has called for increased diligence from bridge owners, indicating that the time for action was long overdue, especially given the potential consequences of failing to address vulnerability in these iconic structures. With a growing awareness of risks associated with aging infrastructures, this ongoing discussion emphasizes the necessity for investments aimed at repair and assessment to avert future tragedies.