June 8, 2025

By Lane Kimble

Expect to see a lot of work on improving bridges across the country over the next few years.

FHWA announced more than $5 billion in available federal funding for the “tens of thousands of bridges across the country… in dire need of repair,” the USDOT said.

The vast majority, about $4.9 billion, is from the Bridge Improvement Program open to all state, local and tribal governments.  Project awards are capped at $3 billion each with a floor of at least $50 million.

The other $500 million announced is limited to bridge repairs in 18 “rural” states, including Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota.

“Bridges are an essential part of the nation’s infrastructure because of the vital economic role they play in moving America’s commerce,” Monday’s USDOT release said.  “These grants will help address the critical need to move people and goods across the nation, connecting local communities and economies, strengthening national supply chains and improving critical corridors for freight travel.”

Secretary Sean Duffy noted the new administration removed “woke Biden-era requirements” from the program applications, including the need to consider greenhouse gas emissions, climate change, and inclusive economic development in applications.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, America is building again,” Duffy said.

Nearly 42,000 bridges across the U.S. are in “poor” condition, according to ARTBA’s latest report. About 2,200 bridges in Wisconsin need repairs.