Beginning Monday, Sept. 1, Nebraska counties will have another opportunity to strengthen their local infrastructure through the Nebraska Department of Transportation’s (NDOT) County Bridge Match Program (CBMP). Now entering its 10th round of funding, NDOT will award $4 million to counties for the innovative replacement and repair of structurally deficient county bridges, all while empowering and encouraging local partnerships.
NDOT is now accepting requests for proposals (RFPs) for the program. Eligible bridges must be in poor condition or have a low rating, greater than 20 feet long, and located on a roadway classified as a local road or better. The CBMP funds 55% of eligible bridge construction cost (up to $500,000), while counties provide a 45% match.
Since its inception in 2016, the CBMP has selected 165 of 549 proposals, resulting in repair or replacement of 385 bridges. CBMP has provided more than $34 million to Nebraska counties, generating more than $100 million in construction activities. Custer County last received funding through CBMP to replace 6 bridges in 2021.
The CBMP was created under Nebraska’s 2016 Transportation Innovation Act (TIA). Funding was renewed through LB 1030, which Gov. Jim Pillen signed into law in April 2024 to help counties tackle the costly challenge of maintaining safe, reliable bridges.
A working group oversees the program to ensure local officials have a voice throughout the decision-making process. This group includes two county highway superintendents and three representatives from NDOT.
Key dates:
• Starting on Monday, Sept. 1, 2025, request for proposals will be published on the NDOT website.
• This program is competitive. Proposals must be submitted to NDOT prior to the close of business on Oct. 17, 2025.
• Counties selected for funding will be notified by Dec. 5, 2025 to enter into an agreement with NDOT.
• Selected bridges must be constructed by Dec. 31, 2028.
Proposal forms, a map of eligible and selected county bridges, and more information can be found at ndot.info/CBMP.
