Study: 4,200 Oklahoma Bridges Need Structural Repairs

An analysis of 2014 federal data shows Oklahoma has the third highest number of structurally deficient bridges in the U.S., according to the American Journal of Transportation.

Thursday, April 2nd 2015, 10:01 am

By: News On 6

Study: 4,200 Oklahoma Bridges Need Structural Repairs

An analysis of 2014 federal data shows Oklahoma has the third highest number of structurally deficient bridges in the U.S., according to the American Journal of Transportation.

The group says according to the U.S. National Bridge Inventory database, 4,216 bridges in Oklahoma have the deficient classification.

The AJT article says the analysis was conducted by the American Road and Transportation Builders Association.

State transportation departments regularly inspect bridge decks and support structures for deterioration and rate them on a scale of zero to 99. A bridge is classified as structurally deficient and in need of repair if its overall rating is four or below.

While many of these bridges may not be imminently unsafe, ARTBA believes that signs should be posted so the public understands they have structural deficiencies that need repair.

The study says Oklahoma is one of eight states where more than 15 percent of the bridges fall into the structurally deficient category.

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation lists bridge data on its website.

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