COLUMBUS, Ohio — Several communities are receiving millions in funding to fix or replace bridges that have seen better days, state officials announced Thursday.
In total, almost $12.4 million is being spread across eight projects in seven different communities through the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Municipal Bridge Program.
Four bridges will be repaired and four others will be replaced.
“Bridges are a vital part of our transportation infrastructure, but the cost of maintenance and repair is often more than local jurisdictions can afford,” said Gov. Mike DeWine in a press release. “This program provides the funding assistance our local communities need to keep their bridges safe and in good condition.”
There’s a set list of criteria for a bridge to be considered for this funding. For rehabilitation, a bridge needs to be considered as “fair” quality. For replacement/demolition consideration, the quality must be considered “poor.”
The release states that up to 95% of the expenses related to these projects may be covered by the program.
“Bridges owned by local communities make up the majority of the bridges in our state,” ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn said. “The people of Ohio do not care who owns and maintains these bridges, they just want to know that they are safe to cross. This program helps ensure they are.”