HOUSTON, Texas– The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has identified several bridges in the Houston area at risk of vessel strikes.
These include the Sidney Sherman Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, and Veterans Memorial Bridge, along with the Buffalo Bayou Toll Bridge.
The report follows the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March 2024, which was caused by a vessel strike and resulted in six deaths.
The NTSB flagged 68 U.S. bridges as vulnerable to similar incidents.
The Sidney Sherman, Rainbow, and Veterans Memorial Bridges are classified as critical infrastructure, while the Buffalo Bayou Toll Bridge is also crucial for regional traffic.
The NTSB report recommends risk assessments, installation of protective barriers, and improved communication protocols between bridge operators and vessels.
Local authorities are collaborating to address these concerns and develop strategies to mitigate risks. The findings underscore the need for ongoing maintenance and inspections of vulnerable bridges.
