Write Up:

The public has indicated that the condition of Missouri’s existing roadway system should be one of the state’s highest priorities. Currently, 726 (21 major) structures are in poor condition, 6,664 (147 major) structures are in fair condition, and 3,033 (43 major) structures are in good condition.

The number of structures in poor condition peaked at 922 in 2017 and is trending downward. The number of structures in good condition shows a general declining trend, while the number of structures in fair condition has been increasing. The decrease in poor condition bridges reflects MoDOT’s asset management program, which focuses on poor structures through normal STIP programming in various districts as well as Design-Build projects. The declining trend in good structures, along with the increase in fair condition structures, reflects MoDOT’s aging bridge inventory, with many structures reaching the point where they need minor maintenance or rehabilitation.

For major bridges, the number of structures in poor condition peaked at 27 in 2018 and is currently 21. The number of fair structures has generally been level over the last four years but increased to 147 for this reporting year. The number of good structures increased by two and has remained level over the last four years due to continued significant STIP investments in major bridges. Work on major bridges is expensive, with rehabilitations costing $15 million to $30 million and replacements ranging from $40 million to $300 million. Ohio has been selected for comparison because its total of 10,257 (169 major) state highway bridges is similar to Missouri’s, and Ohio has comparable demographics, geography, and weather conditions.

MoDOT’s asset management goal for bridges is to keep the statewide total number of poor bridges at 900 or less and the number of poor major bridges at 20 or less.

Purpose of the Measure:

This measure tracks progress toward improving the condition of Missouri’s bridges.

Measurement and Data Collection:

This measure is updated in July based on MoDOT inspections conducted the prior year. Data is presented for all state bridges and major bridges. Major bridges are those that are 1,000 feet long or longer. Of the 10,392 bridges on state highways, 209 are considered major bridges. Bridges are categorized as being in good, fair or poor condition in accordance with criteria established by Federal Highway Administration. Good condition indicates no significant condition-related problems exist, fair indicates moderate problems exist that may require minor rehabilitation or maintenance to return the structure to good condition, and poor indicates more significant problems exist which will require either a major rehabilitation or replacement of the structure.

The target for this measure is set internally and reflects the department’s goal of “holding its own” in terms of bridge condition.