Published: 06-12-08
WASHINGTON D.C. – Today Congressman Mike Conaway (TX-11) introduced H.R. 6234 the “Bridge Life Extension Act of 2008”.
“The recent bridge collapses and closures should be a wakeup call for lawmakers” said Conaway. “Our nation’s infrastructure is crumbling due to improper planning negligence and inadequate management at all levels of governments.”
The “Bridge Life Extension Act of 2008” sets new standards for bridges that receive federal funding by requiring the states to develop corrosion mitigation and prevention plans for all bridges undergoing repair rehabilitation or construction.
The states will be required to submit the outlined plans to the Secretary of Transportation for approval before Federal funds are granted. The plans must contain expected useful life of the bridge details of corrosion mitigation and prevention methods in construction and maintenance of the bridge certification and approval by a corrosion expert and corrosion training for all bridge inspectors.
Conaway went on to say “The ongoing cost of corrosion on US bridges represents a needless waste of taxpayer dollars. It is my hope that my colleagues understand the importance of taking a proactive initiative and pass this important legislation. We cannot ignore the fact that lives have been lost due to past negligence and more will be if we don’t address our nation’s aging infrastructure.”
On August 2 2007 the Interstate 35 bridge in Minneapolis collapsed killing 13 people and injuring 125. The bridge had been found in “poor” condition for 17 consecutive years before the collapse.
Last week Highway 43 in Winona Minnesota closed abruptly leaving commuters to cross the Mississippi River by ferry after corrosion in the gusset plates was discovered.
