Limited Funds and Numerous Deficient Off-System Bridges Create Federal Bridge Program Dilemma

摘要

GAO found that off-system bridge replacement costs vary by thousands of dollars depending on which state a given bridge is in, who pays for its replacement, and who makes the design and construction decisions. The cost differences largely relate to the standards that the bridges are built to and willingness to use less costly designs and construction techniques. GAO believes that economy is essential if progress is to be made in dealing with the off-system bridge problem, but the emphasis on economy must be tempered with the need to ensure that safety and long-range cost are not unduly compromised. GAO is recommending that the Federal Highway Administration, in administering the Federal bridge program, provide policy guidance on off-system bridge standards, balancing economy, safety, and long-range costs.