(a) Deficient highway bridges on Federal-aid highway system roads may be eligible for allocation of discretionary bridge funds to the same extent as they are for bridge funds apportioned under 23 U.S.C. 144, provided that the total project cost for a discretionary bridge candidate is at least $10 million or twice the amont of 23 U.S.C. 144 funds apportioned to the State during the fiscal year for which funding for the candidate bridge is requested.

(b) After November 14, 2002 only candidate bridges not previously selected with a computed rating factor of 100 or less and ready to begin construction in the fiscal year in which funds are available for obligation will be eligible for consideration.

(c) Projects from States that have transferred Highway Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation funds to other funding categories will not be eligible for funding the following fiscal year.