America’s infrastructure is undergoing one of its most ambitious modernization efforts in decades.
Fueled by federal funding and state initiatives under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, 2026 will see transformative progress across highways and bridges — from mega corridor rebuilds to community‑changing expansions.
Here’s a look at 10 major projects that are redefining mobility, safety, and economic connectivity nationwide.
1. Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (I‑5, Oregon–Washington)
Straddling the Columbia River between Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, this mega project will replace two aging vertical lift bridges that carry Interstate 5. With a price tag exceeding $1.4 billion, the program will deliver a seismically resilient, multimodal corridor supporting vehicle, bike, walking, and transit access — a critical freight gateway in the Pacific Northwest.
Why it matters: Improved safety, reduced congestion, and enhanced cross‑state connectivity.
2. Sagamore Bridge Replacement (Cape Cod, Massachusetts)
Serving as a key entry point to Cape Cod, the Sagamore Bridge replacement will address decades of congestion and safety concerns. With nearly $1 billion in funding, this project is central to improving seasonal traffic flow on Route 6 across the Cape Cod Canal.
Impact: Reduced delays for tourism and freight traffic while improving structural reliability.
3. Portal North Bridge (New Jersey)
A critical part of the Gateway Program, the Portal North Bridge is one of the largest bridge construction contracts in NJ Transit’s history — transforming the outdated swing bridge over the Hackensack River into a modern, fixed‑span railroad link. Trains are expected to run on new tracks as early as late 2026, helping boost Northeast Corridor reliability.
Why it matters: Major reduction in rail delays and improved freight/commuter service between Newark and NYC.
4. I‑69 Ohio River Crossing (Indiana–Kentucky)
The I‑69 Ohio River Crossing project will close a critical gap in the interstate system by adding a new bridge and approaches across the Ohio River between Evansville (IN) and Henderson (KY). While full bridge construction is slated to begin after 2026, substantial approach work and preparatory activities will define this year’s build momentum.
Impact: Enhanced regional connectivity and economic development across states.
5. America’s River Crossing – I‑55 Mississippi River Bridge
Replacing the 75‑year‑old I‑55 bridge between Memphis, Tennessee, and West Memphis, Arkansas, this project will modernize one of the most vital freight and passenger corridors over the Mississippi River.
Why it matters: Strengthens national supply chains and supports high‑volume traffic flows.
6. U.S. 90 Expansion and Interchange Improvements (San Antonio, Texas)
In Texas, the multi‑phase U.S. 90 Expansion Project includes major highway widening and bridge enhancements between Loop 410 and Loop 1604, set to significantly improve mobility on one of San Antonio’s busiest corridors.
Impact: Congestion relief and improved freight access for rapid population growth.
7. Yuba Pass Separation Overhead Bridge Replacement (I‑80, California)
Caltrans is replacing and widening aging bridges at the I‑80 and Highway 20 interchange near Lake Spaulding. This $112 million project will improve freight load capacity and safety along a key Sierra Nevada corridor.
8. I‑384 Bridge Rehabilitation (Connecticut)
A comprehensive deck rehabilitation project on I‑384 includes maintenance and upgrades across 19 bridges in Manchester and Bolton, with completion scheduled for late 2026.
Why it matters: Enhances safety and longevity of essential local connectors feeding interstate travel.
9. Donna–Rio Bravo International Bridge Expansion (Texas)
The expansion of this international border bridge near Donna, Texas, will accommodate commercial truck traffic and install high‑tech inspection lanes — a boost for cross‑border logistics.
Impact: Enhances international supply routes and local economic growth.
10. I‑395 Signature Bridge (Miami, Florida)
Part of the larger I‑395/SR‑836 interchange overhaul, the Signature Bridge combines functional highway improvements with architectural prominence as a new Miami landmark.
Why it matters: Urban infrastructure serving both traffic efficiency and civic identity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the 5 ongoing megaprojects in the US right now?
Some of the biggest ongoing infrastructure projects include:
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Interstate 69 Ohio River Crossing (IN–KY)
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Portal North Bridge (NJ)
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Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (OR–WA)
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U.S. 90 Expansion Project (TX)
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I‑395 Signature Bridge (FL)
These projects span highways, bridges, and rail improvements.
2. What is the construction outlook for 2026?
2026 is expected to be a peak year for infrastructure construction in the U.S., driven by federal and state funding. Major projects will focus on highway expansions, bridge replacements, and transportation modernization, creating thousands of jobs and improving national mobility.
3. What is the biggest construction project in the US right now?
The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program on I‑5 (Oregon–Washington) and the Gateway Program’s Portal North Bridge are among the largest construction projects, both exceeding $1 billion in investment.
4. What is the most expensive highway project in the US?
Currently, the I‑5 Interstate Bridge Replacement Program is one of the costliest, with an estimated budget of $1.4 billion, reflecting the complexity of replacing aging infrastructure while accommodating multiple modes of transportation.
Also Read
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America’s Biggest Smart City Projects Set for 2026