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New Study Highlights Risks to Bridges from Heavier Trucks

A recent report from the Coalition Against Bigger Trucks (CABT), released on March 17, 2025, has raised serious concerns about congressional proposals to increase the maximum weight limit for tractor trailers. The study indicates that these changes could exacerbate damage to local bridges across the nation, with substantial financial implications for infrastructure maintenance.

The report updates findings from a 2023 assessment, revealing that the possible increase in truck weights from 80,000 pounds to as much as 91,000 pounds could jeopardize between 65,157 and 82,457 local bridges. This alarming statistic highlights the vulnerabilities in our transportation infrastructure as legislators consider allowing heavier vehicles to operate on highways.

Methodology and Findings

The CABT study conducted a comprehensive evaluation in collaboration with county infrastructure experts. By utilizing up-to-date data concerning the physical condition of bridges and their replacement costs, the report brings to light the critical state of America’s local transportation routes. The methodology used was developed alongside documented experience from county officials, including engineers responsible for the design, maintenance, and inspection of bridge structures.

The findings paint a stark picture: the estimated cost to replace bridges that could be compromised by these heavier trucks ranges from $70.5 billion to $98.5 billion. This estimate marks an increase from a prior report’s prediction of $54.6 billion to $78.4 billion, primarily due to rising replacement costs. As these costs continue to climb, local governments may struggle to find the funding necessary to maintain safe and reliable infrastructure.

Impact Across the Nation

The ramifications of these proposals are pervasive, affecting bridges in all 50 states. The states projected to incur the highest replacement costs include Arkansas, California, Florida, and Georgia, among others. The extent of potential damage underscores the urgency of addressing these legislative proposals before they advance any further in Congress.

"The CABT report should serve to put the brakes on any of the proposals under consideration in Congress to allow bigger trucks," stated Kevan Stone, the executive director of the National Association of County Engineers. He emphasized that the financial burden on counties and taxpayers would be excessively heavy, and stress testing local bridge infrastructure further is critical.

Current Bridge Status and Recommendations

In light of the newly reported data regarding local bridge conditions conducted over recent inspections, CABT, a non-profit organization advocating for responsible trucking policies, has recommended that authorities urgently reconsider the implications of increased truck weights. The analysis focused on a total of 423,943 local bridges, offering an updated view of their load capacities and overall conditions.

This information is not only vital for legislators but also for the public, who rely on these infrastructures daily for commerce and transportation. Small communities, as well as larger urban areas, are at risk of increased maintenance costs and safety hazards if heavier trucks are allowed to traverse local roadways unregulated.

Public Advocacy and Future Steps

CABT consists of a diverse coalition of roughly 3,000 supporters across the country, including law enforcement, local officials, truck drivers, and safety advocates. Their collective voice highlights the need for a balanced approach to transportation policy that prioritizes safety and infrastructure integrity.

As discussions in Congress progress, stakeholders and citizens alike must remain vigilant in advocating for the maintenance of current weight limits on trucks. Addressing these legislative proposals is crucial not only for preserving local bridges but also for safeguarding the transportation frameworks that underpin our economy and daily lives.

To discover more about the Coalition Against Bigger Trucks and their position on these matters, visit www.cabt.org.