The program outlines replacement, rehabilitation and other programs to preserve local bridges. The plan also lets county officials know the ratings of bridges and how badly they need to be fixed. The bridge management program does not include bridge projects funded by sources outside of the cumulative bridge fund, like the Logan Street and Field Drive bridges in Noblesville. A 1999 Hamilton County bridge condition summary revealed that 68 of the county's 222 bridges are deficient. Hamilton County ranks 52nd out of 92 counties in the quality of its bridges, according to the county's study.
Many bridges are deficient because of old age.
Bridges 50 years or older need to be updated or replaced. Two categories define a bridge's deficiency. A functionally obsolete bridge may still be in good condition, but it was designed poorly. A structurally deficient bridge has deteriorated to the point that it only can carry light vehicles. Twelve bridges listed in the county's management program have been selected for an 80-percent funding reimbursement from the Federal Highway Administration.