Staff members of the City of Norman Public Works Department presented information about bridge conditions and a proposed Bridge Maintenance Bond Program for feedback and consideration of the City Council Community Planning & Transportation Committee Meeting on October 27, 2022.

A copy of the presentation can be found by clicking here. Review staff discussion and explanation with committee members in a video recording of the meeting, just after minute 49, by clicking here.

Key Takeaways included:

• Norman has 80 bridges, several constructed prior to 1950, and over 300 culvert crossings.
• There exists no steady, predictable funding source for repair and replacement of bridges.
• A 10-year ad valorem-based proposal was presented to make possible the replacement/repair of 19 bridges across Norman.
• The working plan will be presented to full City Council in upcoming weeks for consideration and input.

Implementation would require voter approval. The October 27 meeting was the first of many steps to be taken, should the plan move forward. It served to offer staff direction and insight.

An in-depth chart of potential property tax changes will be finalized for review and presentation in the near future. Preliminary numbers included bridge maintenance community investments by way of property tax increases to reflect the following: $4.54 per month on a home valued at $100,000; $7.01 per month on a home valued at $150,000; $9.49 per month on a home valued at $200,000. Alternate plans and figures were discussed to be considered by the full City Council.  

Community members will be kept apprised of any forward movement regarding the proposed Bridge Maintenance Bond Program.

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