H.R. 3663: Bridge Protection Act

This bill, known as the Bridge Protection Act, aims to enhance the safety and security of certain bridges in the United States, specifically those built before 1996 that are located over navigable waters. Below are the key provisions of the bill:

1. Vulnerability Assessments

Owners of covered bridges will be required to carry out vessel collision vulnerability assessments. This assessment will need to be conducted using a specific method established by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The purpose is to identify the potential risks for these bridges when large vessels collide with them.

2. Risk Reduction Plans

If a bridge is found to exceed a designated risk threshold as identified by the assessment, the owner must develop and implement a risk reduction plan. This plan must be completed within one year after the assessment results are reported to the Department of Transportation.

Failure to create and implement this plan by the deadline will render the owner ineligible for any federal grants related to that bridge, starting from October 1, 2026. However, owners can apply for an extension if necessary.

3. National Bridge Inventory

The results of the vulnerability assessments conducted by bridge owners must be integrated into the National Bridge Inventory. The Secretary of Transportation will be responsible for overseeing this integration and may withhold sensitive data to protect the security of the bridges being assessed.

4. Establishment of a Bridge Safety Team

The Secretary of Transportation will set up an interdisciplinary bridge safety team to provide guidance and maintain a national database for bridge vulnerability. This team will consist of representatives from various federal agencies, including the Federal Highway Administration, the Coast Guard, and the Corps of Engineers.

5. Grant Program for Bridge Improvements

A new grant program will be established to support owners of covered bridges in conducting assessments and making necessary physical improvements. This program will be competitive, allowing qualifying owners to apply for financial aid to enhance the safety of their bridges.

A total of $500 million will be authorized for this grant program from fiscal years 2026 through 2030.

6. Definitions

The bill defines a covered bridge as any bridge that spans navigable waters and was constructed prior to 1996.

Relevant Companies

None found.