Damaged Galveston County Bridge puts Shipyard and Offshore Workers at Risk
Thousands of Galveston County maritime workers, including shipyard and offshore workers are in danger of injury during their daily commute to work. Due to a shortage of funds, county authorities stopped work on a repair project on Pelican Island Bridge, which is used daily by the workers.
The bridge over the Galveston ship channel suffered extensive damage during Hurricane Ike. It is stable, but maritime workers, as well as Texas A&M University staff and students who use the bridge daily are forced to drive at 10 mph to cross. Before the Ike damage, the speed limit along the bridge was 35 mph. The bridge underwent emergency repairs soon after Ike and was back to normal operations less than a week after the water receded. 
Galveston County Navigation District No.1 paid Texas Gulf Company $1.5 million to repair the bridge, but in early February the project was shut down due to shortage of funds. A local contractor Lamson Nguyen has agreed to take up the task of filling potholes on the bridge free of cost. However, the fact is that the 50-year-old bridge is in need of permanent repairs. The district has no funds available to continue the work and has requested $6 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. In addition to the badly damaged bridge, the district needs an additional $3 million to repair a fender system, which protects Pelican Island Bridge from passing boats. If federal funds are not forthcoming, the district has indicated that tax rates may have to be increased in order to fund repairs.
As in many other states across the country, essential infrastructure projects are being slashed due to shortage of funds. The economic recession has led to budget deficits nationwide, and it's having a telling effect on citizen safety. Everyday, Pelican Island Bridge is used by maritime workers, including shipyard and offshore workers to commute to work. Although authorities have confirmed the bridge is passable and should not pose a risk to workers, repairs must be conducted soon so workers are safe and put to as little inconvenience as possible.
Maritime Injury Attorneys
People injured in maritime workplace accidents are eligible for benefits under maritime laws, including the Jones Act and the Longshore & Harbor Worker's Compensation Act. A maritime attorney can help you determine the laws under which you are eligible for compensation and file claims under these laws.
If you have been injured in a maritime accident, contact a maritime accident attorney at Arnold & Itkin LLP for a free consultation.
