MassDOT Bridge Investments Pay Off

MassDOT has made historic investments in the Commonwealth’s bridges. These investments are already paying off.  Thanks to Governor Patrick's historic Accelerated Bridge Program (ABP), the Statewide Road and Bridge Program, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, MassDOT has reduced the backlog of structurally deficient bridges by nearly 50 bridges, or 9%, in just 20 months, shown below.  Read the Governor's news release on ABP progress here.

When Governor Patrick filed the ABP legislation in 2008, there were 543 structurally deficient bridges held by MassHighway and the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Of the same inventory, only 494 bridges are currently structurally deficient— the lowest number in 10 years.
The $3 billion Accelerated Bridge Program signed into law in August 2008 exemplifies Governor Patrick’s commitment to improving the condition of the Commonwealth’s bridges. During its initial years, the program has focused on starting projects quickly and ensuring that projects will be delivered on time and on budget by utilizing stringent project controls, innovative materials and techniques, and a specialized oversight structure. The program is proactive, working aggressively to identify and resolve structural issues through preservation and maintenance before they become major problems requiring structural rehabilitation or even replacement.
    The fast pace is already paying dividends, reversing the Commonwealth’s trend of rapid bridge deterioration. With 99 projects currently being designed, more bridge improvements will be seen across the Commonwealth.