Senate Approves Measure to Create County Bridge Replacement Revolving Fund

The state Senate on Wednesday approved legislation to aid counties in reconstructing structurally inadequate or functionally obsolete bridges and roads. Authored by Sen. Brian Bingman, Senate Bill 832 would create the County Bridge Replacement Revolving Fund.

Bingman said the measure would allow the state to make more substantial and efficient investments to improve the condition of the state’s rural roads and bridges.

“If we want to make our state a more attractive destination for business and industry, we must improve the condition of our rural roads and bridges,” said Bingman, R-Sapulpa. “With some of the nation’s worst roads and bridges, it’s also an important public safety concern. This legislation will allow our counties to more efficiently fund repairs and construction.”

Under the measure, when a county bridge sustains damage requiring a repair, the Board of County Commissioners may direct the transfer of monies from that county’s account in the County Bridge and Road Improvement Fund for the purpose of repairs or construction. The Fund will draw from monies made available for the purposes of the County Bridge and Road Improvement Act.

“I’m pleased the Senate unanimously approved this measure and I look forward to seeing it signed into law,” Bingman said. “This vote sends a strong message that the Senate understands the importance of improving our rural roads and bridges.”