Huffman Announces Golden Gate Bridge to Receive $400 Million for Seismic Retrofit Under Democrats' Infrastructure Law

December 30, 2022

San Rafael, CA – Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) shared the news that San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge will soon receive $400 million from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) under Democrats' historic Infrastructure Law.  These funds will be used to strengthen one of the Bay Area's most essential transportation arteries and bolster its resilience against earthquakes.

Rep Huffman in front of Golden Gate Bridge for Event

“The Golden Gate Bridge is not only an iconic part of the Bay Area, but a vital thoroughfare for countless folks in the region,” said Rep. Huffman. “Thanks to the Infrastructure Law, this $400 million investment will allow us to fortify the Bridge, making it more resilient to disasters and ensuring that this structure can continue serving our community and all who visit. I’m glad to have played a part in securing this funding alongside President Biden, Speaker Pelosi, Secretary Buttigieg, and all my Bay Area colleagues.”

“We want to thank Congressman Huffman, Speaker Pelosi, the Biden Administration, and the entire Bay Area congressional delegation for this vital funding that will secure the Golden Gate Bridge for generations,” said Denis Mulligan, General Manager of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. “The Bridge turned 85 years old this year, and this investment will ensure that the Golden Gate Bridge stands stronger than ever.”

In May of 2022, Rep. Huffman sent a letter to Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg advocating for this funding to be made available for the Golden Gate Bridge.

The FHWA found that the Golden Gate Bridge is currently in "fair condition" but noted that continued deterioration would result in a "poor" rating within the next three years.  The Bridge's north and south approaches were retrofitted in 2013, leaving only the main suspension span to be upgraded.  The newly-announced federal funding will allow this remaining section to undergo vital seismic upgrades and ensure the Bridge's continued structural integrity.

Passed by the Democratic Congress, the Infrastructure Law was signed by President Biden on November 15, 2021.  This historic legislation established a competitive Bridge Investment Program, delivering $12.5 billion to build, repair and replace key bridges across the country.  This initiative represents the single largest investment in America's bridges since the construction of the interstate highway system.