With the continuous advancement of artificial intelligence and big data technologies in recent years, the application of artificial intelligence in bridge engineering has garnered increasing attention. This article examines the development history of artificial intelligence and neural networks, along with their applications in bridge engineering in China. The CiteSpace visualization tool is employed to analyze literature from 1995 to 2024, focusing on publication volume, keyword co-occurrence, and institutional partnerships. This analysis further elucidates the research hotspots within the field.The findings indicate that artificial intelligence has achieved significant developments and breakthroughs in bridge engineering. However, the uneven progress may pose limitations in practical applications. The article concludes by summarizing current shortcomings and outlining potential directions for future development.