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Gov. Whitmer inspects bridges in metro Detroit

Posted at 8:46 PM, Jun 18, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-18 22:04:19-04

(WXYZ) — It was the focus of her campaign, a big part of her budget proposal and now Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is touring crumbling bridges in our state to understand exactly what is happening and why.

It’s a bridge made of concrete and steel – two of the strongest known construction materials. However, they are no match for time.

Water seepage is like kryptonite for concrete, sapping strength and eventually causing crumbling of the structure. Fortunately, MDOT inspectors work hard to predict potential disaster before it happens.

There are 447 bridges in critical condition, and another 1100 others in need of repair. Sixty-two bridges in Michigan have already been closed.