Key takeaways:
- The NTSB has recommended evaluating 68 bridges across 19 states for risk of collapse due to vessel strikes, following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore caused by a cargo ship collision.
- The recommendation emphasizes the need for “vulnerability assessments” for bridges, highlighting that the Maryland Transportation Authority did not conduct such an evaluation for the Francis Scott Key Bridge before its collapse.
- The evaluations target bridges built before 1991, including iconic structures like the Golden Gate Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, and Sunshine Skyway Bridge, with the aim of enhancing safety and preventing future incidents.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued a recommendation for a comprehensive evaluation of 68 bridges across 19 states to assess their risk of collapse due to vessel strikes. This call for action follows the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore last year, which was attributed to a collision with a cargo ship. The NTSB’s recommendation highlights the importance of conducting “vulnerability assessments” for bridges that may be at risk of similar incidents.
Federal officials have emphasized the need for these assessments, noting that the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) did not perform such an evaluation for the Francis Scott Key Bridge prior to its collapse. The incident, which occurred on March 26, 2024, resulted in significant scrutiny of bridge safety protocols and has prompted the NTSB to identify other structures that may be vulnerable. The bridges in question were all constructed before 1991 and currently lack updated vulnerability assessments.
The NTSB’s recommendations have been directed to 30 different owners responsible for the 68 bridges identified as needing evaluation. Among the notable structures included in this list are the Golden Gate Bridge in California, the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Florida. These iconic bridges, along with others, are now under review to ensure their structural integrity and safety in the event of potential vessel collisions.
NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy addressed the media, underscoring the necessity of these assessments to prevent future incidents. The initiative aims to enhance the safety of critical infrastructure and protect the public by identifying and mitigating risks associated with vessel strikes. As the evaluations proceed, bridge owners and authorities are expected to collaborate closely with federal officials to implement necessary safety measures.
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