It would take $2.1-billion over 10 years to bring some 4,200 bridges to a satisfactory standard, according to Nova Scotia’s Department of Transportation.
Auditor General Michael Pickup released his performance audit report Tuesday.
He says the department considers approximately 600 bridges to be in poor condition.
“Poor condition includes advanced deterioration, or fatigue cracks, and these 600-plus bridges likely need major rehabilitation or replacement.”
Pickup adds about 1,400 bridges are considered in fair condition while the remaining 2,200 are good.
He says the DOT needs a better management system on bridge projects including replacement and maintenance.
“Nova Scotians expect the Department of Transportation to provide bridges that are safe, available when they are needed and efficiently and effectively looked after so the province’s funding is well spent.”
Transportation Minister Lloyd Hines says the department recognizes they could improve the collection and tracking of information on bridges.
He says they are committed to putting new processes and procedures in place to better track bridge maintenance, repairs and inspections.
