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Joshua Fredrickson explained that there are 2 types of bridges that <br />are inspected. (1) NBI Bridges (over 20 feet; National Bridge <br />Inventory) which we currently have 113 structures; inspected on a <br />two-year cycle and reported to the state; generally eligible for <br />federal/state bridge funding. (2) Non-NBI / Short -Span Structures <br />(under 20 feet) which we currently have 151 structures; inspected by <br />the County due to critical infrastructure needs; fewer/no dedicated <br />funding sources noted for short -span bridges. <br />Joshua Fredrickson stated that Public Works conducts bridge <br />inspections for the City of Cle Elum, City of Ellensburg, and City of <br />Kittitas under a reimbursement arrangement. <br />Joshua Fredrickson indicated that 163 County -owned bridges were <br />inspected in calendar year 2025 including two specialized inspections <br />that required outside consultants (steel tension member bridges) and <br />the remaining inspections were performed in-house. As of December <br />2025, of the NBI Bridges: 51 rated as Good; 55 as Fair and 7 as Poor. <br />Of the Non-NBI Structures: 55 rated as Good; 88 as Fair and 8 as <br />Poor. <br />Joshua Fredrickson stated that the bridge over Town Ditch and the <br />bridge over the Cascade Canal are priority for funding to replace <br />these bridges. <br />Joshua Fredrickson stated that Public Works also performed in-house <br />bridge maintenance work (bridge joint replacement) to extend asset <br />life and reduce costs.' <br />Vice Chairman Brett Wachsmith asked how it is determined that bridges <br />are categorized as "poor," condition and how priorities are set for <br />those bridges. He also asked about high v. low traffic conditions. <br />Joshua Fredrickson explained that traffic conditions, distance from <br />the Interstate and other elements are factors that go into how <br />bridges are rated. Joshua Fredrickson expressed that he does not <br />want to forget about the bridges that are in good or fair conditions, <br />because without maintenance they can fall into the poor condition <br />category. <br />Vice Chairman Brett Wachsmith asked about load restricted bridges. <br />Joshua Fredrickson explained that load ratings have changed over the <br />last several years. Emergency vehicles load ratings are different <br />than standard trucks due to the axle spacing. Joshua Fredrickson <br />offered to provide additional details on the specific bridge/load <br />rating questions. <br />2026-02-23 MINUTES <br />