McCollum Remembers I-35W Bridge Collapse

Statement

McCollum Remembers I-35W Bridge Collapse

Twin Cities Rep. seeks funding & safeguards for Minnesota's infrastructure

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) today released the following statement to mark the one year anniversary of the collapse of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis:

"One year ago, the world witnessed the collapse of a massive bridge crossing the Mississippi River in America's heartland. The fall of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis was a devastating infrastructure failure and a human tragedy.

"We continue to grieve for the thirteen who lost their lives that evening - six of them who were my constituents. And our prayers are with their families.

"Minnesota will remember the consequences of this disaster for years to come. I am very proud of the way our Twin Cities have worked together to meet the needs of commuters and businesses while the new bridge is being reconstructed.

"The condition of our state's bridges and vital infrastructure continues to be a great concern. In St. Paul, the Lafayette Bridge and Cayuga interchange are in dire need of funding for important updates to keep motorists safe. Over the last year, Minnesota has seen major bridges in St. Cloud and Winona closed due to safety concerns.

"I commend Congressman Keith Ellison, Congressman Jim Oberstar, Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak and the entire Minnesota delegation, for their efforts to secure federal funding to rebuild Interstate 35W, and address this national crisis so other states will not have to endure this kind of catastrophe."

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