Congresswoman Barbara Lee Issues Statement on Bay Bridge Closure
For Immediate Release
October 28, 2009
Contact: Ricci Graham
510-763-0370
Washington, DC - Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the following statement regarding the indefinite closure of the Bay Bridge. Authorities closed the bridge Tuesday evening after two high-strength steel rods and a crossbeam broke away from a steel saddle. Said Congresswoman Lee:
“First, I want to say I am relieved that no one was injured in the incident that forced authorities to shutdown the Bay Bridge,” Congresswoman Lee said. “My office has been in constant contact with Caltrans, and I have been closely monitoring the circumstances surrounding the closure of the Bay Bridge and the work that is being done to repair the bridge.
“I have received assurances from Caltrans officials that crews are working as quickly as possible to make the necessary repairs and to be certain that the work is done properly. The Federal Highway Administration (FHA) provided funding for the initial repairs that were done during the Labor Day weekend closure of the bridge. The FHA has been contacted again by Caltrans to secure emergency funding for the repairs. These emergency federal funds will assure a speedy response to repair the bridge.
“The Bay Bridge is a vital transportation link between San Francisco and the East Bay, and it is imperative that we all work together to ensure the bridge repairs are done as quickly and safely as possible.”
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