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NTSB Identifies 68 Bridges Needing Urgent Risk Assessments After Key Bridge Collapse

The Francis Scott Key Bridge's vulnerability, 30 times above acceptable risk, highlights systemic safety failures and prompts nationwide evaluations.

FILE - The fallen Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore is pictured March 31, 2024, where divers assisted crews with the complicated and meticulous operation of removing steel and concrete. (AP Photos/Mike Pesoli, file)
A U.S. Coast Guard boat approaches clean-up operations at the Francis Scott Key Bridge as the main shipping channel prepares to fully reopen, in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., June 10, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/File Photo
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The Benicia-Martinez Bridge in Martinez. A new report from the National Transportation Safety Board raises concerns that the Golden Gate Bridge, along with four other Bay Area spans, could be at risk of collapsing due to a ship strike. 

Overview

  • The NTSB has recommended vulnerability assessments for 68 U.S. bridges built before 1991, citing risks of collapse from vessel collisions.
  • Maryland Transportation Authority failed to assess the Key Bridge's risk, which was nearly 30 times above the acceptable safety threshold.
  • The Key Bridge collapsed in March 2024 after the container ship Dali struck a support column, killing six construction workers.
  • Federal funding will cover the $1.7-$2 billion cost of rebuilding the bridge, which is expected to be completed by 2028.
  • The NTSB urges federal agencies to assist bridge owners in evaluating risks and implementing safety measures to prevent future disasters.