NTSB Orders Risk Review of 68 U.S. Bridges After Baltimore Collapse, Including 3 in Massachusetts

Following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, transportation officials are calling for safety checks on dozens of bridges across the country. The review covers 68 bridges across 19 states where ships travel underneath, including 3 here in Massachusetts. These bridges were built before safety rules changed in 1991. When looking at the Baltimore bridge before it fell, experts found its risk level was 30 times higher than what's considered safe. Famous bridges like the Brooklyn Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge need to be checked. Locally, the two bridges that connect Cape Cod to the rest of the state, the Bourne and the Sagamore Bridges are on the list. In Boston, the Tobin Bridge will also need to be inspected. Teams will look at safety features, how ships move through the area, and water conditions near each bridge. Not waiting for official orders, Golden Gate officials already started their own safety study. The San Francisco landmark uses steel and concrete barriers at its base to protect against ships. Florida's Sunshine Skyway Bridge made the list, even though it was rebuilt in 1980. A ship hit and destroyed the old bridge, leading to new safety requirements. Teams must check support structures, protective barriers, and water depths. They'll also track the size of ships and how many pass under each bridge daily. If high risks are found, bridge owners will need to create new safety plans. These plans must follow strict rules set by transportation officials. This fall, experts will reveal why the Dali hit Baltimore's bridge and what followed. The complete report should help everyone understand what went wrong. Being on the inspection list doesn't mean a bridge is unsafe. These checks are meant to catch problems early to avoid future accidents.