Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market – Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Type (Highway Construction, Street Construction, Bridge Construction), By Construction Type (New Construction, Reconstruction, Repair), By Region, By Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The Global Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market was valued at USD 2.6 trillion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 3.7 trillion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.9% through 2030. The global highway, street, and bridge construction market is driven by several key factors. Rapid urbanization and population growth, especially in emerging economies, are increasing the demand for efficient transportation networks, pushing for the construction of new roads and bridges. Governments around the world are prioritizing infrastructure development, leading to substantial investments in transportation projects to improve connectivity, trade, and economic growth. Additionally, the need to maintain and replace aging infrastructure has sparked a surge in construction and renovation projects.

Technological advancements, such as edge computing and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications, are revolutionizing road infrastructure by enhancing safety, efficiency, and real-time data processing. Sustainability is another major driver, with growing demand for eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs in construction practices. Economic development goals are closely tied to infrastructure, with investments in transportation networks acting as catalysts for trade, market access, and job creation. Lastly, regional market dynamics play a crucial role, with the Asia-Pacific region seeing rapid growth due to urbanization and government spending, while regions like the UK experience slower growth in motorway networks. These factors together fuel the market’s expansion.  

Key Market Drivers

Government Investments in Infrastructure Development

One of the primary drivers of growth in the global highway, street, and bridge construction market is the substantial government investments in infrastructure development. Governments worldwide recognize the critical role of transportation infrastructure in supporting economic growth, enhancing connectivity, and improving the quality of life for citizens. The need to modernize aging infrastructure, combined with the necessity to support expanding urban populations, has resulted in significant public spending on road, street, and bridge construction.

In developed countries, aging highways and bridges are becoming increasingly vulnerable to wear and tear, necessitating large-scale repair and replacement projects. For example, in the United States, the Federal Highway Administration has dedicated billions of dollars to infrastructure projects through programs like the Highway Trust Fund, which focuses on rebuilding roads, bridges, and tunnels that have deteriorated over time. Similarly, in European countries, the European Investment Bank has been financing cross-border transportation projects, while the UK government has committed to expanding its road networks to reduce congestion and boost economic activities in suburban and rural areas. 

Emerging economies are also heavily investing in infrastructure development to support their rapid urbanization and industrialization. Countries like India, China, and Brazil are heavily investing in modern highways, bridges, and street networks to facilitate trade, reduce transportation costs, and improve accessibility in rural areas. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), spearheaded by China, has contributed significantly to infrastructure projects in Central Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia, including highways and bridges. This initiative has led to an increase in the demand for construction materials and technologies, creating a lucrative market for construction firms and contractors in the highway, street, and bridge sectors. 

In addition to government spending on traditional infrastructure, there has been a shift towards incorporating modern technologies such as smart roads, intelligent traffic systems, and advanced safety features. Governments are now focusing on constructing roads and bridges with integrated technology that can monitor traffic patterns, enhance safety, and provide real-time data to optimize transportation. For example, the deployment of automated toll collection systems and real-time traffic monitoring systems in smart cities is driving the demand for innovative construction solutions. Moreover, governments are increasingly adopting sustainability-focused practices, emphasizing the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and green building certifications, thereby shaping the future of the market.

This investment-driven focus on infrastructure is not just limited to developed economies but is also evident in emerging markets, where infrastructure development is a key pillar of national growth strategies. Governments are continuously allocating funds to these sectors as part of their long-term economic vision, offering lucrative contracts to construction firms involved in highway, street, and bridge construction projects. This sustained government support for infrastructure development continues to fuel the growth of the global highway, street, and bridge construction market. The world needs $94 trillion in infrastructure investment by 2040 to keep pace with economic and population growth (source: Global Infrastructure Outlook). There is an estimated $15 trillion gap between current infrastructure investment trends and actual need by 2040 — about $0.7 trillion annually. About 70% of global infrastructure investment is directed toward energy and transport.

Technological Advancements and Sustainability Considerations

Technological advancements and sustainability considerations are transforming the global highway, street, and bridge construction market. As construction practices evolve, new technologies are enabling greater efficiency, safety, and durability in the design and construction of roads, bridges, and streets. The integration of smart technologies and green construction techniques is reshaping the industry by improving project outcomes while minimizing environmental impact.

Technological innovations such as advanced materials, building information modeling (BIM), and 3D printing are playing a significant role in the construction of highways and bridges. For instance, the use of advanced composite materials is becoming more prevalent, offering greater strength and longevity for bridges and highways, especially in harsh weather conditions. Additionally, BIM allows for better collaboration and planning, enabling construction firms to design infrastructure more efficiently and with fewer errors. The ability to simulate and visualize construction projects through digital models reduces costs and time overruns, making it easier to optimize designs and materials.

The introduction of autonomous construction equipment and machinery, including drones for surveying and robotics for inspection, is also improving the efficiency and safety of construction projects. Drones can quickly assess large sites, monitor construction progress, and identify potential issues, reducing the need for manual inspections and accelerating project timelines. Moreover, autonomous construction vehicles such as trucks, excavators, and cranes are being deployed to improve operational efficiency and reduce labor costs.

Sustainability considerations are increasingly influencing the construction of highways, streets, and bridges, driving demand for eco-friendly building materials and energy-efficient designs. The construction industry is adopting more sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials, reducing carbon emissions, and designing structures that minimize environmental impact. In highway construction, this includes the use of recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) and low-carbon concrete mixtures that significantly reduce the carbon footprint of projects. For bridge construction, architects and engineers are exploring green building certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), to ensure that projects are designed and built with environmental considerations in mind.

Sustainable urban mobility is also a growing concern. Governments and private developers are looking for ways to integrate sustainable transportation modes, such as electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and pedestrian-friendly streets, into their construction projects. The rise of electric vehicles, for example, has led to a demand for charging stations integrated into highway networks. Smart street lighting systems, which adjust according to traffic patterns and reduce energy consumption, are being implemented in modern city street construction. Moreover, innovations in construction processes, such as modular bridge construction, allow for faster and more sustainable building methods. Modular construction reduces the need for on-site fabrication and minimizes the disruption to traffic, lowering both construction time and environmental impact.

These technological advancements and sustainability initiatives not only enhance the efficiency and durability of infrastructure but also reduce long-term operational and maintenance costs. By integrating green and intelligent solutions into construction projects, stakeholders are able to meet the growing demands of transportation networks while addressing the need for environmental responsibility. This combination of technology and sustainability is one of the driving forces behind the expansion and evolution of the global highway, street, and bridge construction market.

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Key Market Challenges

Cost Overruns and Budget Constraints

One of the most significant challenges faced by the global highway, street, and bridge construction market is the issue of cost overruns and budget constraints. Construction projects, particularly those involving highways, streets, and bridges, often experience cost escalations due to a variety of factors, leading to significant budgetary issues for stakeholders. The complexity of these infrastructure projects, along with the unpredictability of external factors, makes it difficult to accurately estimate costs and ensure projects stay within budget.

Cost overruns typically arise from unforeseen challenges such as material price fluctuations, labor shortages, and delays in the procurement of necessary resources. For example, the price of raw materials like steel, concrete, and asphalt can vary greatly based on market conditions, tariffs, or disruptions in the global supply chain. This can have a direct impact on the final cost of a construction project, as these materials form a significant portion of the overall expenditure. Additionally, global supply chain disruptions, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, can lead to delays in the delivery of construction materials, which in turn leads to project delays and increased costs.

Labor shortages can also contribute to cost overruns in the highway, street, and bridge construction market. Skilled labor is essential for the successful completion of these complex projects, and a lack of experienced workers can lead to delays and reduced productivity. In many countries, there is a shortage of skilled tradespeople, such as engineers, heavy equipment operators, and specialized construction labor, which has resulted in higher labor costs as firms compete for qualified workers. In some cases, this shortage has forced companies to hire temporary labor or outsource tasks, which can lead to higher costs and diminished quality.

Unforeseen environmental challenges, such as poor weather conditions, geological surprises, and site contamination, can also contribute to cost overruns. For instance, construction projects located in areas prone to flooding or earthquakes may require additional safety measures and reinforcements, leading to increased costs. Similarly, the discovery of hazardous materials or contaminated land at the construction site can halt progress until remediation is completed, further driving up the cost of the project.

Finally, project delays and changes in scope can lead to significant increases in costs. Stakeholders, including government agencies and private investors, may require changes or upgrades to a project after construction has already begun. These changes can result in the need for additional planning, resources, and time, all of which add to the overall cost.

Managing these cost overruns is a significant challenge in the highway, street, and bridge construction market, particularly when combined with the pressure to deliver projects on time and within budget. Many stakeholders, including governments and contractors, are exploring new ways to improve cost estimation processes, implement more effective project management strategies, and secure funding to mitigate the risks of cost overruns. However, the unpredictability of factors like labor, material costs, and environmental conditions makes managing project budgets a complex and ongoing challenge for the industry.

Regulatory and Environmental Compliance

Regulatory and environmental compliance is another major challenge facing the global highway, street, and bridge construction market. Construction projects in this sector are subject to an increasing number of regulatory standards, building codes, and environmental guidelines that must be met to ensure the safety, sustainability, and legality of the infrastructure. While these regulations are essential for maintaining safety standards and protecting the environment, they can present significant obstacles to project timelines, budgets, and design flexibility.

In many countries, obtaining the necessary permits and approvals from local, state, and national authorities is a time-consuming process. Regulatory bodies often require thorough environmental impact assessments (EIAs) before any construction can begin, which involves evaluating the potential effects of a project on local ecosystems, water sources, air quality, and wildlife. These assessments can lead to delays as contractors wait for approval, or they may necessitate changes to the project design to minimize environmental harm. In some cases, public opposition to construction projects, especially those near sensitive environmental areas, can result in legal challenges or the cancellation of projects altogether.

Beyond environmental considerations, construction projects must comply with a wide range of safety and quality standards. The complexity of highway, street, and bridge construction means that strict adherence to safety codes is critical to preventing accidents, both during construction and after the infrastructure is completed. These regulations often require the use of specific materials, construction techniques, and equipment to ensure the safety of workers and the public. As safety standards become more stringent, construction companies are faced with the challenge of meeting these evolving requirements while managing costs and timelines.

In addition to safety and environmental regulations, governments are increasingly requiring construction projects to meet sustainability goals, which often necessitate the use of greener materials and more energy-efficient designs. Incorporating sustainable practices can involve higher upfront costs for construction firms, as eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies may be more expensive than traditional alternatives. Furthermore, the use of sustainable practices often requires changes to long-established construction processes, which can disrupt project timelines and increase complexity.

Regulatory challenges also extend to zoning laws, land use policies, and public transportation requirements, all of which vary significantly by region. Compliance with local laws regarding noise pollution, dust control, and traffic management during construction can also add to project costs and delays. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in fines, lawsuits, or the suspension of work, all of which further hinder the progress of projects.

Navigating the complex web of regulations and environmental requirements is a significant challenge for highway, street, and bridge construction projects. To mitigate these challenges, construction companies need to invest in specialized legal and environmental expertise, streamline permit acquisition processes, and ensure compliance with all applicable codes and guidelines. Despite these efforts, regulatory and environmental factors remain a persistent and evolving challenge in the global construction market.

Key Market Trends

Increased Focus on Smart Infrastructure and Technological Integration

A key trend shaping the global highway, street, and bridge construction market is the increased focus on smart infrastructure and the integration of advanced technologies. As cities and transportation networks grow more complex, there is a significant push toward building smarter, more efficient, and data-driven infrastructures. This trend is driven by the need to improve road safety, reduce congestion, enhance traffic management, and minimize environmental impact.

Smart infrastructure incorporates a wide range of technologies, including sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and real-time data analytics. These technologies are being integrated into roadways, bridges, and street networks to create systems that can communicate with vehicles, traffic signals, and other infrastructure elements. For instance, smart traffic lights use data from sensors to adjust signal timings based on real-time traffic conditions, reducing congestion and improving the flow of traffic. In addition, real-time traffic monitoring systems can provide valuable information to drivers through mobile apps and digital signage, helping them avoid accidents and reduce travel time.

Another emerging trend is the development of autonomous vehicle-compatible infrastructure. As self-driving vehicles become more common, there is growing interest in designing roads and bridges that can accommodate these vehicles, ensuring safe and efficient operation. Infrastructure such as smart roads that interact with autonomous vehicles via vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication systems is gaining traction in several regions. These systems enable vehicles to communicate with traffic signals, road signs, and other infrastructure to enhance safety, optimize traffic flow, and enable autonomous driving capabilities.

Additionally, the adoption of data-driven solutions in construction planning and project management is revolutionizing how highway, street, and bridge projects are designed and executed. Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become an integral tool in construction, enabling teams to collaborate more effectively, reduce errors, and improve project timelines. BIM allows for the creation of digital prototypes of highways and bridges, enabling stakeholders to identify potential issues before construction begins and make adjustments to the design. This reduces costs, improves efficiency, and helps meet deadlines. Advanced simulation and modeling techniques are also being used to predict the performance and longevity of roadways and bridges, ensuring that infrastructure can withstand changing environmental conditions and increasing traffic loads.

The integration of sustainable technologies is another critical aspect of smart infrastructure. There is a growing trend towards designing and building green highways and bridges, utilizing renewable energy sources like solar power for lighting and energy-efficient materials. For example, solar-powered street lights and smart grid technologies are becoming increasingly common, helping to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Additionally, the use of recycled materials in construction, such as recycled asphalt and concrete, is growing, in line with global efforts to promote sustainability in infrastructure development.

Overall, the trend toward smart infrastructure and technological integration is reshaping the global highway, street, and bridge construction market. As the world moves toward more connected and sustainable cities, the demand for intelligent, data-driven, and eco-friendly infrastructure will continue to rise, driving innovation and growth in the market.

Sustainability and Green Construction Practices

Sustainability has become a driving force in the global highway, street, and bridge construction market, with increasing emphasis on environmentally friendly construction practices, materials, and designs. As global awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, there is a heightened demand for green construction methods that minimize the ecological impact of infrastructure projects. This trend is particularly significant in the context of government regulations, public demand for environmentally responsible development, and the construction industry's efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

One of the primary sustainability trends in highway, street, and bridge construction is the use of recycled and sustainable materials. Recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) and concrete are becoming more commonly used in road construction, significantly reducing the need for virgin materials and lowering carbon footprints. For instance, using RAP in road resurfacing projects not only cuts down on the amount of waste sent to landfills but also reduces the environmental impact associated with the extraction and transportation of new materials. Similarly, the use of fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion, in concrete can reduce the environmental footprint of construction while maintaining strength and durability.

In addition to material selection, the construction industry is focusing on energy-efficient designs that minimize the environmental impact of roadways and bridges over their lifespan. Green construction practices in the highway and bridge sector involve incorporating energy-efficient lighting systems, such as LED streetlights, which consume less energy and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Furthermore, there is growing interest in designing roads that allow for better stormwater management. Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) are being integrated into street designs to reduce flooding, improve water quality, and promote groundwater recharge. These systems, which include features like permeable pavements, green roofs, and rain gardens, help to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and urbanization on the natural environment.

Another aspect of sustainability in the construction of highways, streets, and bridges is the focus on reducing carbon emissions and overall environmental impact during the construction process. To achieve this, construction companies are increasingly adopting low-carbon construction techniques and sourcing materials from local suppliers to minimize transportation emissions. Some projects are also incorporating solar panels on bridges or highway structures to generate renewable energy, reducing the reliance on traditional power sources and contributing to the sustainability of the project.

Governments around the world are also pushing for the inclusion of sustainability standards and certifications in highway and bridge construction. For example, the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification has been expanded to include roadways and bridges, encouraging construction projects to meet sustainability benchmarks. The European Union has implemented similar standards under its Green Deal, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a circular economy.

Furthermore, there is a rising demand for sustainable transportation networks that support electric vehicles (EVs). As electric vehicle adoption continues to grow, highways and streets are being designed to accommodate EV charging stations, promoting the transition to green transportation. The installation of charging infrastructure in public spaces, particularly along highways and urban streets, is becoming a critical aspect of modern road construction projects.

Overall, sustainability is no longer just a trend but a central focus in the highway, street, and bridge construction market. As the demand for eco-friendly infrastructure continues to grow, the industry is adopting innovative solutions to reduce environmental impacts, improve resource efficiency, and support the transition to a low-carbon future. This trend not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also helps construction firms meet regulatory requirements and respond to consumer preferences for greener, more sustainable infrastructure. Buildings are responsible for approximately 39% of global CO₂ emissions — with 28% from operational emissions and 11% from construction materials and processes (embodied carbon). Green buildings can reduce energy use by up to 50%, water use by 30–50%, and CO₂ emissions by 35% compared to conventional buildings. While green buildings can cost 2–7% more upfront, they can lead to operational cost savings of up to 20% annually.

Segmental Insights

Construction Type Insights

New Construction segment dominated the Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market in 2024 and is projected to maintain its leadership throughout the forecast period, driven by the increasing need for the development of new infrastructure across the globe. This segment encompasses the construction of new highways, bridges, and street networks, which are essential to support urbanization, industrialization, and population growth. As countries continue to expand their transportation networks to improve connectivity, ease traffic congestion, and stimulate economic growth, the demand for new construction projects remains robust.

Governments and private sector stakeholders are heavily investing in large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in emerging economies where rapid urban growth is leading to the need for improved roadways and bridges. The construction of new highways and bridges is also crucial for enhancing national and regional logistics and transportation networks, ensuring the smooth movement of goods and people.

Additionally, new construction projects are often linked to modernization efforts aimed at improving infrastructure's capacity to meet current and future demands. This includes the incorporation of advanced technologies like smart roads, improved safety features, and sustainability practices, which further bolster the market's growth. The New Construction segment is expected to continue to dominate the Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction Market as governments focus on infrastructure development to support economic and social progress, making it a key driver of market expansion.

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Regional Insights

Largest Region

North America dominated the Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market in 2024 and is anticipated to maintain its leadership throughout the forecast period, primarily driven by its mature infrastructure and substantial investments in both new construction and the renovation of existing roadways, bridges, and street networks. The region, particularly the United States and Canada, is experiencing a significant need for infrastructure upgrades due to aging roads, bridges, and tunnels, which require extensive repair and replacement to meet modern safety standards and accommodate growing traffic volumes.

Government initiatives, such as the U.S. Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, have been crucial in driving investments into transportation infrastructure, with a focus on rebuilding and expanding highways, streets, and bridges across the country. These efforts aim to improve road safety, reduce congestion, and enhance transportation efficiency, which contributes to the region's market dominance.

In addition to government funding, North America's advanced technology adoption, such as the integration of smart infrastructure, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient systems, is helping to drive innovation within the construction sector. The demand for greener, more sustainable construction practices is prompting investment in the development of eco-friendly transportation networks.

Furthermore, North America's robust economy, established construction firms, and access to advanced construction techniques and materials further solidify its leadership in the Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction Market, ensuring its continued dominance in the global market for years to come.

Emerging Region

South America is the emerging region in the Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market, driven by the increasing demand for infrastructure development and modernization. Several South American countries are undergoing significant urbanization and industrialization, which has resulted in a growing need for improved transportation networks, including highways, bridges, and streets, to support both economic growth and population expansion.

Governments in the region are increasingly investing in large-scale infrastructure projects to boost connectivity between cities, improve trade and logistics, and support regional development. Brazil, Argentina, and Chile are leading the charge, with numerous highway and bridge construction projects aimed at enhancing transportation efficiency and safety. These projects are particularly focused on upgrading aging infrastructure, reducing traffic congestion, and ensuring that the transportation network can accommodate modern vehicles and growing traffic volumes.

Additionally, the increasing emphasis on sustainability is shaping the market in South America, with a rise in the use of green materials and energy-efficient construction techniques. These developments are helping to reduce environmental impact and align with global sustainability trends.

Private sector involvement and international partnerships are also contributing to the region's market growth, with foreign investments and expertise supporting the completion of critical infrastructure projects. As South America continues to develop and expand its transportation infrastructure, it is expected to become an increasingly important player in the global Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction Market.

 Recent Developments

• In February 2024, Autobahn, the organization responsible for managing German highways, announced the official opening of the first half of the A1 Rhine Bridge in Leverkusen. The 1-kilometer bridge, built by a consortium including Hochtief, SEH Engineering, Eiffage Métal, Iemants, and Max Bögl, features three lanes in each direction along with a pedestrian and cycle path. Construction of the second parallel bridge will begin once the old bridge is dismantled, and by 2027, both bridges will offer four lanes of traffic in each direction.
• In February 2024, Skanska, a global leader in construction and development, revealed the substantial completion of the USD 27.8 million State Route-60 (SR-60) Moreno Beach Drive Interchange Improvement Project in Moreno Valley, California. This project involved replacing the SR-60 Moreno Beach Drive overcrossing bridge and realigning the westbound on-ramps and off-ramps. The new seven-lane bridge, replacing the previous two-lane structure, and the reconstruction of the north side of the interchange are set to improve freeway access and accommodate growing traffic demands.

Key Market Players

• China Communications Construction Group Ltd.
• Grupo ACS/Hochtief
• China Railway Construction Corp. Ltd.
• Skanska AB
• We-Build SPA
• China Railway Group Ltd.
• Power Construction Corp. of China
• China State Construction Engineering Corp. Ltd.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market, By Type:

o   Highway Construction

o   Street Construction

o   Bridge Construction        

• Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market, By Construction Type:

o   New Construction

o   Reconstruction

o   Repair        

• Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  Germany

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Spain

o   Asia Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  South Korea

§  Australia

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Colombia

§  Argentina

o   Middle East & Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  South Africa

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Highway, Street, And Bridge Construction Market report with the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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