NTSB

Latest FHWA 2025 National Bridge Inventory data shows modest improvement with approximately 41,600 bridges rated in poor condition as of mid-2025, down slightly from prior ~42,000 figures, supporting 163 million daily crossings per ARTBA analysis. Major projects like the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor broke ground in May 2026 with a new companion bridge targeted for 2031 at $4+ billion cost. NTSB issued March 2025 recommendations for urgent evaluation of 68 high-risk bridges including Sunshine Skyway and Golden Gate. Isolated incidents include a 2025 SC bridge partial collapse and 2026 WV demolition-related failure, but no new systemic collapses reported.

Severe flooding in northern Michigan and Wisconsin during April 15-21, 2026, triggered multiple bridge collapses (Beitner Bridge in Traverse City, MI; Rockport Bridge in Rock County, WI) and a dam failure (Alcona County, MI), with Cheboygan Dam narrowly saved via emergency repairs despite years of documented maintenance neglect and regulatory violations. These localized events, linked to extreme weather, highlight risks in aging infrastructure but resulted in no reported casualties or widespread catastrophe. No new national assessments from FHWA, ASCE, or USACE since April 12; ongoing IIJA funding and proactive responses suggest mitigation efforts, though reauthorization looms.

Comprehensive searches through March 26, 2026, including web and X platforms, confirm no new major US bridge collapses, high-traffic emergency closures due to cracks, or escalations in structural deficiencies. Coverage is dominated by the two-year anniversary of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, with reports on ongoing rebuild progress and lingering economic impacts. Routine lane closures for repairs in areas like West Virginia continue, but no evidence supports claims of a widespread crisis.