The tragic collapse of the Interstate Highway bridge in Minnesota last week has again focused widespread attention on the condition of America’s highway system.

PennDOT Secretary Allen Biehler immediately ordered the inspection of the 54 bridges in Pennsylvania that are of similar design. Of those 54 spans, 17 have been designated “structurally deficient,” and Secretary Biehler put the inspection of those at the top of the list.

In total, Pennsylvania has about 6,000 structurally deficient bridges, more than any other state. The term is used by the Federal Highway Administration to describe bridges with some level of deterioration. In some cases, PennDOT may have implemented restrictions on weight or speed, but the term does not necessarily mean that a bridge is unsafe.

Pennsylvania has enacted a plan that will reduce the state’s annual $1 billion highway funding gap by about half. Several newspapers have suggested that a modest increase in the state gasoline tax and other user fees would be appropriate. The gas tax was last increased 10 years ago.

“Most people recognize that a sound highway system is important for economic vitality and quality of life, but the Minnesota tragedy is a sad reminder of the safety aspects as well,” said PHIA President Ron Drnevich. “Pennsylvania’s solution is a good first step, but we need to continue to seek a long-term solution to this problem.”