WisDOT MAPSS - Preservation - State Bridge Condition - Protecting, maintaining and operating Wisconsin's transportation system efficiently by making sound investments that preserve and extend the life of our infrastructure, while protecting our natural environment.
State Bridge Condition - Protecting, maintaining and operating Wisconsin's transportation system efficiently by making sound investments that preserve and extend the life of our infrastructure, while protecting our natural environment.Well-maintained bridges are the vital link that ensures the overall capacity of our highway system. Our goal is to have 95% of state-owned bridges rated in fair condition or better.
Wisconsin bridges are critical infrastructure assets of the highway transportation network. Inspecting and evaluating bridges is a key component of keeping bridges safe. Bridges with a condition rating of poor are considered deficient and may need corrective action to ensure current and future operation of the transportation system. An accurate understanding of the condition of the inventory of bridges allows for planning and prioritizing limited resources to address operational needs.
WisDOT’s commitment to funding bridge improvement work is reflected in low percentage of bridges in poor condition. Wisconsin puts a high emphasis on maintaining and improving bridges through rehabilitation and replacement. Bridges receive the highest priority in the project selection process. Wisconsin spends additional state money above the federal dollars it receives to maintain bridges.
WisDOT uses asset management practices to optimize timing and work performed on state owned bridges. Inspection data is gathered by trained inspectors via visual inspection but is supplemented with other techniques such as infrared thermography imagery (IR) to detect deterioration in bridge decks without disturbing traffic, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs or drones) to inspect difficult-to-reach bridge components, capture visual images, and provide a higher level of safety for inspectors and the traveling public during inspection operations. WisDOT continues to gather additional information to refine deterioration curves and better predict the remaining life of bridges and their components.