An innovative device and method for patching cracks in infrastructure, such as bridges and buildings. Prestressed fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are emerging alternatives to traditional methods for repairing cracks in structures. Typically, prestressed FRP composites require hydraulic jacks, pumps, and other heavy fixtures to prestress the composite. This novel patch utilizes shape memory alloy (SMA) to create a simple self-stressing patch. SMA patch is bonded to the surface of the structure and applies a compression stress to the structure. FRP composite is laid over the SMA patch and bridges the crack in the structure. Using SMA-FRP patch reduces the stress at the crack site to prevent crack propagation and to increase the life of the cracked structure.