As no sustainable and consistent funding source for bridge replacement or major rehabilitation currently exists in Norman, City Council began discussions regarding a City of Norman Bridge Maintenance Bond Program in Fall 2022. After a series of public presentations and research completed in July 2023, direction to pursue an October 2023 vote of the people regarding a 10-year, $50 million program was given to staff. Passage of this proposition will allow 6 Bridge Replacements and 4 Major Bridge Maintenance and Rehabilitation projects beginning in 2024; this proposal also includes a contingency of funding to allow for unexpected changes in priority or emergencies within the city’s bridge inventory. Projects were compiled using detailed bridge inspection data completed by a third party engineering firm. The City of Norman is responsible for the maintenance of 80 bridges and 300 culvert crossings; more than a quarter of its bridges were constructed prior to 1950.  By federal law, each of the City’s 80 bridges receive a detailed inspection and evaluation every two years.

Proposed monthly property tax increases for the 10-year program vary by home value; general estimates entail $2.44 for a $100,000 home, $5.10 for a $200,000 home, and $7.75 for a $300,000 home. The proposed tax change would be in place for a minimum of 20 years if the program is approved by Norman voters.

Norman City Council set this proposition to go to a vote of the people during a public meeting on August 8, 2023. It will appear on a ballot for Norman voters on October 10, 2023. Learn more at Normanok.gov/BridgeByBridge.

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