BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — According to the National Transportation Research Group (TRIP), a private nonprofit organization, North Dakota is among the top ten states for its number of rural bridges rated in poor condition. The recently released report also found that most of North Dakota's other bridges are safe and in great shape. However, some bridges require significant repairs. TRIP says that nearly $198 billion is needed for repairs to the nation's highways and bridges, but so far, Congress has yet to pass another infrastructure bill as the election nears. While North Dakota and other states wait for more federal transportation funding, the TRIP report notes that 11% of the state's rural bridges are showing signs of significant deterioration. "It's concerning," said the Greater North Dakota Chamber's President and CEO Arik Spencer. "I think what this report shows is that while our state and local leaders have made great strides in improving our infrastructure, we have more yet to do." Bismarck calls for public hearing to address encampments The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) has to keep an eye on nearly 5,000 bridges across the state — and they say that all of the bridges are regularly inspected to ensure they are safe to use. "We really have a robust program for that through tracking, monitoring, and inspecting," added NDDOT's Director Deputy of Engineering, Matt Linneman. "If a bridge is not safe to travel it gets closed." If bridges need repairs, Linneman says that deciding which to improve comes down to several factors, including funding and construction project schedules. He adds that every year, NDDOT crews work to repair the bridges most in need of repairs, while also rebuilding other bridges approaching the end of their life span. You can find a map of all bridges and their current conditions on the NDDOT website. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW