68 Federal Transportation Board Projects, Including Pell Bridge, Recommended for Crucial Risk Assessment

The Pell Bridge, which links Newport and Jamestown in Rhode Island, is in the spotlight recently. It is one of 68 U.S. bridges highlighted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) for evaluation. This call for assessment follows a tragic incident: in March 2024, Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship, resulting in the loss of six lives.

NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy emphasized the importance of these evaluations. “We need action—public safety depends on it,” she stated during a press briefing. The NTSB’s report shows that many bridge owners are likely unaware of their structures’ vulnerability to potential disasters.

Besides the Pell Bridge, five other bridges in New England are being assessed. This includes two major bridges over the Cape Cod Canal in Massachusetts and the Memorial Bridge connecting New Hampshire and Maine. These bridges were built before strict safety guidelines were introduced in 1991.

As of now, the Pell Bridge is not deemed at immediate risk of collapse. However, past performance suggests a closer look is warranted. The NTSB has noted that the Key Bridge did not have a current vulnerability assessment before its collapse, which underscored a critical oversight.

In response to the recommendations, the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) is taking action. Director Lori Caron Silveira announced that the authority is addressing the NTSB’s requests while also beginning a multi-phase rehabilitation of the Pell Bridge. This plan includes deck reconstruction and cable repairs to ensure the bridge remains safe.

This rehabilitation is being funded by an $82.5 million federal grant from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program. Construction is expected to start within a year. Silveira assured the public that funding issues are not a concern, stating that the grant is already secured and progress is underway.

A recent survey revealed that 78% of Americans view infrastructure investment as critical to their community’s safety, highlighting public interest in maintaining the integrity of such structures.

As attention focuses on infrastructure safety, the call to action is clear: regular assessments and prompt repairs are crucial to prevent future tragedies. The experience from Baltimore serves as a reminder of the urgent need for vigilance in road safety and infrastructure management.



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