New York Gets $72M Funding to Protect Bridges From Flood Damage

The federal government is giving New York state $72 million to upgrade 29 bridges that are vulnerable to flood damage.

The funding announced on Wednesday is part of a $518 million initiative to protect bridges from swiftly moving floods, which can undermine bridge foundations.

Known as “bridge scour,” this type of erosion is one of the leading causes of bridge failure around the country.

The 29 spans are located in 12 counties. The largest single project is a highway bridge in Woodstock over the Beaver Kill. The work involves strengthening foundations, redirecting the flow the water and in some cases elevating the span.

Overall, the state hopes to upgrade 105 bridges that were picked because they are especially at risk of problems.