The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has urged for vulnerability assessments to be conducted on 15 bridges in New York and New Jersey to determine the risk of collapse from a vessel collision. This call to action comes in the wake of a tragic incident in March where Baltimore’s Key Bridge collapsed after a cargo ship lost power and struck one of the bridge’s main support piers.
NTSB Chairman Jennifer Homendy emphasized the importance of these vulnerability assessments, stating that while the bridges may not be in immediate danger of collapsing, it is crucial for bridge owners to understand the potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Urgent Call for Safety Inspections
The NTSB’s recommendation for vulnerability assessments on these bridges was prompted by a preliminary report that revealed the failure of the Maryland Transportation Authority to conduct a vulnerability assessment on the Key Bridge. This oversight, according to safety officials, could have prevented the tragic collapse of the bridge.
The list of bridges identified by the NTSB for vulnerability assessments includes several key structures in New York and New Jersey. These assessments will help bridge owners determine the level of risk of collapse from a vessel collision, allowing them to implement appropriate safety measures.
Bridge Vulnerability Assessment List
Among the bridges identified by the NTSB for vulnerability assessments are:
– Commodore Barry Bridge in New Jersey
– Vincent R. Casciano (Newark Bay) Bridge in New Jersey
– Verrazano Narrows Bridge (eastbound and westbound) in New York
– Brooklyn Bridge in New York
– Manhattan Bridge in New York
– Williamsburg Bridge in New York
– Newburgh-Beacon Bridge (eastbound and westbound) in New York
– Rip Van Winkle Bridge in New York
– Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge in New York
– George Washington Bridge in New York
– Outerbridge Crossing Bridge in New York
– Seaway International Bridge in New York
– Thousand Islands Bridge in New York
These bridges, including some that are over a century old, are crucial transportation arteries that connect communities and facilitate the movement of goods and people. Conducting vulnerability assessments on these structures is vital to ensuring the safety of those who rely on them.
It is important to note that the MTA Bridges and Tunnels President Catherine Sheridan has stated that all vehicular bridges under their jurisdiction are regularly inspected and adhere to current safety guidelines. Similarly, the New York City Department of Transportation is reviewing the NTSB’s request, particularly in relation to bridges over the East River.
In addition to the bridges in the tri-state area, a total of 68 bridges constructed before 1991 and frequently used by vessels have been earmarked for vulnerability assessments. These assessments will provide valuable insights into the structural integrity of these bridges and help mitigate potential risks of collapse from vessel collisions.
As the NTSB continues to advocate for safety measures to protect critical infrastructure, it underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and assessment protocols to prevent future tragedies. By prioritizing the safety and resilience of our bridges, we can ensure the continued well-being of our communities and the efficient flow of commerce and transportation.
