Ohio DOT Announces $8.7 Million Investment in Local Bridge Projects

The following information was provided by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT)

On January 27, 2025, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) announced the award of $8.7 million to support bridge projects as part of ODOT’s Local Major Bridge Program.

This round of funding will go to modernizing and repairing four local bridges in Franklin, Fairfield, Hamilton, and Lake counties.

“Investing in our local bridges builds safer connections and supports our economy by keeping our transportation system moving,” said Governor DeWine. “Every dollar spent on bridge infrastructure is a direct investment in the security and prosperity of our communities.”

Since Governor DeWine expanded the definition of a “local major bridge in 2022, ODOT has awarded 24 projects worth a total of $78 million dollars.

Program Eligibility and Funding Details

The Local Major Bridge Program provides Federal funds to counties and municipalities for bridge replacement, bridge rehabilitation, bridge demolition, and major bridge preventative maintenance projects. To qualify for the program, the bridge must be a moveable/lift bridge or a bridge having a deck area greater than 15,000 square feet. ODOT will fund up to 80% of eligible costs for all phases of the projects receiving awards. There is a maximum project cap of $20,000,000.

“Local communities depend on ODOT funding programs to maximize their infrastructure dollars and ensure their transportation assets are safe and reliable for years to come,” said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn.

Annual Application and Review Process

ODOT accepts Local Major Bridge applications annually starting September 1 and ending October 15. These funding requests are reviewed by a multi-disciplinary committee with a background in funding, program management, safety, environmental, and bridge analysis.

For more information, visit the Ohio DOT website.

Ohio Design Data Sheets for Short Span Bridges

The SSSBA assisted ODOT with developing design data sheets to provide preliminary steel beam sizing and detailing information for the lengths, girder spacings, loading and other design criteria. ODOT reviewed the use of design data sheets for use in the construction of short span steel bridges up to 140 feet in length.

Deviations from the criteria incorporated herein may necessitate modifications to girder sizes. It is the responsibility of the engineer of record to assure adherence to state and federal standards.

The design data sheets can be downloaded from the SSSBA website.

Leveraging SSSBA Resources for Successful Bridge Projects

The Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance (SSSBA) offers valuable resources and expertise that can support local agencies and Departments of Transportation (DOTs) in planning, designing and constructing efficient and cost-effective bridge projects:

• Design Resources & Technical Guidance – SSSBA provides free tools like eSPAN140, helping engineers and agencies quickly develop optimized steel bridge designs that meet project requirements and funding criteria.

• Cost-Effective & Accelerated Construction Solutions – By promoting modular and prefabricated bridge components, steel bridges can reduce construction time, minimize traffic disruptions, and maximize the impact of available funding.

• Durability & Long-Term Performance – With expertise in corrosion protection, coatings, and material selection, SSSBA supports agencies in designing bridges with longer service life and lower maintenance costs.

• Educational Support & Training – SSSBA offers workshops, webinars, and technical guidance to help engineers, contractors, and transportation officials make informed decisions about steel bridge solutions.

• Case Studies & Best Practices – By providing real-world examples of successful steel bridge projects, SSSBA equips agencies with data-driven insights to support project planning, funding applications, and implementation.

For more information, please explore the SSSBA website or contact Dan Snyder at dsnyder@steel.org