Use of Bridge Element Condition Reports to Measure Performance of Bridge Preservation

A method to measure the performance of bridge preservation through the use of bridge–level element condition reports is demonstrated. The performance measure makes bridge-by-bridge evaluations of the relative conditions of elements that are major assemblies of bridges and elements that affect the exposure of major assemblies to deterioration. In an evaluation of performance, a bridge can be in a state of good preservation, at risk of deteriorating to poor condition, or already in poor condition. Bridge condition reports from 50 U.S. states are used in this evaluation of the performance of bridge preservation. The bridge element reports conform to the FHWA specification for bridge element reports and employ AASHTO national bridge elements and bridge management elements. Bridge preservation is good for 53% of National Highway System bridges by deck area. The performance of preservation is evaluated for major assemblies of bridges and for bridge construction materials in relation to coatings, wearing surfaces, and joints.