This manuscript is intended as an argument for the use of glass-fiber-reinforced polymeric composites, known as GFRP, in the rehabilitation of existing steel bridges. GFRPs have been used as structural materials in bridge construction since the early 1980’s and today are increasingly used either in full-FRP structures or as deck elements, cables, reinforcements, beams, and trusses. The main features speaking for their beneficial use are their high specific strength and their corrosion resistance alongside their behavior under severe environments. With a density at around 20% of that of steel but at a significantly lower elastic modulus, modular GFRP bridge elements are easy to manufacture, transport, and install, thus leading to reduced installation costs, fast construction times, and structures with minimal maintenance (Blaga et al., Construct Build Mater 80: 167–179, 2015). Temporary fiber-polymer composite bridges have a wide range of applications. In disaster-prone areas, these bridges can be deployed swiftly to restore connectivity after natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, or landslides. The military also utilizes these structures for operations requiring rapid movement of troops and supplies over difficult terrain or temporary crossings. As infrastructure needs become increasingly complex and urgent, temporary fiber-polymer composite bridges represent a vital innovation in civil engineering. With their rapid deployment capabilities, lightweight construction, and resistance to environmental deterioration, they provide effective solutions for both temporary and emergency applications. As technology continues to advance, these bridges are poised to become a standard feature in modern infrastructure, combining resilience, efficiency, and sustainability to meet the challenges of today’s world.