Overview

• The Bundesrechnungshof’s April 2025 report finds that only 69 of 280 planned bridge segments were modernized in 2024, leaving the program 60% behind schedule.
• The audit accuses the Verkehrsministerium of misrepresenting progress by including projects outside the program and underestimating the scope of required work by 1,000 segments.
• The report highlights a significant funding shortfall, with €2.1 billion needed annually compared to the €1.4 billion allocated by the ministry.
• The Bundesrechnungshof warns of escalating risks, including further bridge closures and deteriorating infrastructure, if modernization efforts are not accelerated.
• Recommendations include pausing new construction, reallocating resources, and setting clear modernization targets for regional authorities to improve accountability.