Short Span Steel Bridges 
U.S. Department of Transportation Awards $1.73 Billion in BUILD Funding
The follow was provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy today announced an investment of $1.73 billion into 127 projects in 52 states, territories, and the District of Columbia.
“America is fortunate to have a Builder in the White House who knows America is only as great as our infrastructure. That’s why this Department is investing in repairing critical roads and bridges that connect Americans to job opportunities, port infrastructure that bolsters our national security, and aviation and transit projects that move American families. The impact of these dollars will be felt in communities nationwide for years to come,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy.
$1.3 Billion Dedicated to Road and Bridge Projects Through BUILD Program
Through funding from the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program, the Department of Transportation is investing in transportation improvements across the country.
Roads and bridges received the majority of those funds, with $1.3 billion, or 77%, going to the sector.
The investment will support projects designed to improve transportation networks, enhance mobility, and address critical infrastructure needs in communities nationwide.
Opportunities Grow for Innovative Bridge Design and Construction Solutions
A complete list of the 2026 recipients is available through a downloadable spreadsheet.
As federal investments continue to address aging transportation infrastructure, these programs provide opportunities to advance innovative, cost-effective, and resilient bridge solutions that support communities across the nation.
Does the SSSBA offer educational opportunities?
Yes! The SSSBA offers educational opportunities to students and professionals:
Professionals: The SSSBA provides complimentary half-day or full-day workshops on short span steel bridge design to states, counties, and design firms. Topics covered include practical and cost-effective steel bridge design and fabrication with eSPAN140, press-brake-formed steel tub girders, steel buried bridge design, galvanized coating solutions, and economical design with case studies, and more. The workshops can take place virtually or in-person, compliments of the steel industry. Learn more.
Students: The University of Wyoming and the Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance created a free 6-part live-lecture educational series to cover the many aspects of designing, fabricating, and constructing steel bridges. All students who successfully complete the education series will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Wyoming. Learn more.
Speakers: The SSSBA provides expert speakers to present topics of interest on the cost-effective design and construction of short span steel bridges. If you need a speaker for your next event, contact the SSSBA.
News
Steel Bridge Task Force Honors Thomas Murphy with 2026 Richard S. Fountain Award
The Steel Bridge Task Force honored Thomas P. Murphy of Modjeski and Masters with the 2026 Richard S. Fountain Award during its September 28 meeting in Anchorage, Alaska. The award recognizes Murphy’s outstanding leadership and contributions to advancing steel bridge design, research and AASHTO specifications.
News
SSSBA Semi-Annual Meeting in Omaha Highlights Innovation and Industry Collaboration
Steel bridge industry leaders gathered in Omaha, Nebraska, for the SSSBA Semi-Annual Meeting. The meeting featured technical presentations, industry updates, facility tours and discussions on advancing short span steel bridges. The next meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2027, in Washington, D.C.
Events
Free Steel Bridge Plate Girder Design Course: 6-Part Live Webinar Series (Starts Nov. 3)
Take your bridge design skills to the next level in this free six-part webinar series led by Dr. Michael Barker, University of Wyoming. Learn step-by-step how to design a composite plate girder bridge and earn a certificate of completion in this course from the SSSBA.