Nearly a decade of inspection reports detail numerous problems with the now-closed westbound span of the Washington Bridge.
The hundreds of pages of reports, dating from 2014 to last year outline difficulty in identifying problems, due to its unique design.
Among the issues: rust, cracks, leakage, and inaccessibility to portions of the span due to nesting pigeons and the "debris" they left behind.
The bridge was rated as in poor condition, but still safe, until a junior engineer discovered broken rods in December, causing the span to be shut down.
State officials have determined the span, built in 1968 must be replaced, which will take at least two years.
An independent audit is now underway to determine if these issues should have been acted upon sooner.
(Photo: US Department of Transportation)