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 continues to refine and improve on best practices for inspection and asset management to maximize the life of its structures, striving to do the right work on the right structures at the right time. Trained inspectors gather data via visual inspection but also leverage other techniques such as infrared thermography imagery (IR) to detect deterioration in bridge decks, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs or drones) to inspect difficult-to-reach bridge components. Inspection data is evaluated by WisDOT bridge management software and asset management engineers to determine the next work actions and optimize timing of work on state owned bridges.