Vulnerability Assessments Needed on 68 Bridges in 19 States, NTSB Says

What happened: The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) March 20 said 30 owners of 68 bridges nationwide should conduct immediate vulnerability assessments to see if the structures are at risk of collapse if hit by a sea-going freighter or other large vessel.

Why it matters: The recommendation comes as part of the agency’s investigation into the tragic collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024, when it was struck by the containership Dali. The bridge was almost 30 times above the acceptable risk threshold for critical or essential bridges, according to guidance set up by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).

What’s next: The NTSB recommended owners develop a risk reduction plan, if the bridge has a risk level above the AASHTO threshold. The agency also suggests the Federal Highway Administration, U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers establish an interdisciplinary team to help states and cities minimize the chance of a collapse, either through infrastructure improvements or operational changes.

What they’re saying: In a statement, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) said it is reviewing the recommendations and will provide an update to NTSB within 30 days. MDTA “maintains the catastrophe and the tragic loss of life was the sole fault of the DALI and the gross negligence of her owners and operators who put profits above safety.”