Citizens in Marion County are being asked to complete a bridge survey to help the county potentially earn grant funding.

In 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation will award up to $250 million in Competitive Highway Bridge Program (CHBP) grants to support critical infrastructure projects across the country. CHBP is a nationally competitive grant program that provides additional transportation infrastructure funding to those who apply. The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), along with Marion County and 20+ other counties and cities, is applying to receive funding to help rebuild 34 bridges in poor condition across the state. These bridge replacement projects would improve safety, increase communities’ connection to nearby areas such as schools, businesses, hospitals, and parks, provide easier access for freight and agricultural-related movement and allow for economic growth.

This survey will give the county insight into views on the bridges, how the current structures are used, and  thoughts on potential wider, safer bridges that can carry heavier loads. The survey should take five minutes to complete and the deadline to complete is July 21st. You can complete the survey here.