Off-System Bridge Program
Off-System Bridge Program: The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
provides dedicated oversight and funding to ensure the safety and longevity of off-system structures – bridges, culverts, and tunnels owned by Colorado’s counties and municipalities.
Off-System Bridge Program Objectives:
To inventory, inspect, evaluate, replace, and rehabilitate major structures (bridges and culverts)
To inventory, inspect, and evaluate tunnels on local public roads.
Funding and Programs:
These programs are supported by the Bridge Off-System line in the annual CDOT Budget, utilizing both mandatory federal funds and Transportation Commission-directed funds (other federal/state funds).
| Program | Focus Area | Key Function |
| BRO | Bridge Replacement | Funds the replacement or major rehabilitation of structures rated in Poor or Fair condition. |
| BIO | Bridge Inspection | Managed by CDOT Staff Bridge to ensure local compliance with federal safety standards (NBIS and NTIS). |
Project Selection and Local Match (BRO):
The Special Highway Committee (SHC) selects projects for replacement or
rehabilitation based on structural condition and need. Important Requirement:
Successful county or municipal applicants must provide a minimum 20% local match for all SHC-selected projects.
Compliance and Reporting (BIO):
To maintain federal standing and public safety, the BIO program ensures all local
structures meet:
National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS)
National Tunnel Inspection Standards (NTIS)
CDOT Staff Bridge handles the annual data submittals for the National Bridge Inventory and National Tunnel Inventory to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
Additional details about the Off-System Bridge Program can be found in the Off-System Bridge Manual.
