The nation has a vast inventory of bridges and structures. The states are charged with managing, building, and maintaining this vast inventory. The inventory is highly variable considering the following: age of the structures, construction practices, design methods, material, type, current condition, deterioration rates, criticality to transportation system, etc. Each and every structure has a probability of failure which contributes to the overall risk exposure for the transportation agencies. At the present time, many transportation agencies are involved with advancing asset management strategies and selecting various performance measures to assist in managing the transportation infrastructure. A risk management strategy for bridges and structures should be integrated into an asset management system. Risk management of bridges and structures is necessary throughout a transportation agency to support decision making, and thus, a strategic approach to managing transportation infrastructure. Risk management promotes more effective allocation and use of resources to address preservation, operation, and improvement of transportation infrastructure. Transportation agencies should determine whether the transportation system is performing at an acceptable level of risk. Guidance for establishing a risk management strategy for use by transportation agencies is needed.

A research task force to provide direction and expert advice during the course of the investigation. The research task force will consist of representatives from the member states. A researcher (team or individual) with appropriate experience and expertise will be contracted to perform the work and report back to the research task force.

See Attached File for Scope of Work

The target for participation in this project is to have fifteen to twenty (15-20) agencies participate at a rate of $15,000-$20,000 per year per agency.