Investment for the first year through to 30 September 2009 will be US$520 million, of which US$171 is for ongoing work and contracts that have already been tendered.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is set to advertise tenders representing US$230 million, including the Boston University Bridge and the Craigie Dam and Draw Bridges, which will begin construction in spring 2009.

There are currently 543 structurally-deficient MassHighway and DCR bridges. At current funding levels, the number would increase to almost 700 in the next eight years. The programme will instead reduce the number to approximately 450.