Premature deterioration of concrete bridge decks in the Nation's Federal-aid highway systems is a major problem. The deterioration is caused by the corrosion of the reinforcing steel bars in the bridge deck, brought about by the chloride deicing chemicals used in winter. This report describes the need (1) to protect bridge decks with only slight contamination now and (2) to find an effective method for stopping further deterioration of heavily contaminated bridge decks. Preventing or stopping further deterioration would save billions of dollars by avoiding premature replacement of the bridge decks. We are sending copies of this report to the Director, Office of Management and Budget, and the Secretary of Transportation. A. Steate Comptroller General |