So what does ‘structurally deficient’ mean?
Yeah, it sounds kinda scary.
The term does not mean the bridges are unsafe for travel.
So what then does ‘structurally deficient’ mean?
Basically, ‘structurally deficient’ means that the infrastructure has one or more key elements that are in poor or worse condition.
But there are degrees of severity to this designation.
MassDOT Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver noted that a structurally deficient bridge could mean anything from a bridge deck with a big pothole to a structural beam that needs replacement.
Bridge elements are rated on a scale of zero to nine – with a nine representing a bridge in peak condition. If one of several elements reaches the point of a 4, the bridge is considered structurally deficient.
This triggers enhanced inspections so that officials know the bridge is safe, Gulliver said.
Bridges are also ranked for priority in renovation – first by region, and then statewide.
This ranking reflects questions including: what is the condition of the bridge itself; how much does it cost to annually maintain; the kind of repairs needed; what kind of traffic travels over the bridge – for instance, if it is near a hospital and is vital for ambulance traffic; and whether a detour route is available.
Bridges that are found to be unsafe can be posted for weight limits or closed.
“When a bridge becomes structurally deficient we work very hard to put repairs in place to keep it open and keep it open in a safe way,” Gulliver said.
