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State Representative Tim Faust
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-0518
For more information contact: Michael Howard 651-296-8873
NEWS COLUMN
FAUST RESPONDS TO BRIDGE TRAGEDY, DEMANDS INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE
Two weeks ago, while flipping through channels on my television, I came across the vivid image of a bridge that had collapsed. The initial image was terrible, and I thought, wow, I wonder where that happened. Moments later came the sinking realization that this was our bridge that had collapsed.
The aftershocks of this unimaginable tragedy affect us as Minnesotans, and as a community. Greg "Jolly" Jolstad, a construction worker on the bridge, is still one of the missing victims. His vacancy is being felt throughout the community.
The first responders, comprised of citizens on the scene, police officers and firefighters, were heroic in their efforts to remove those injured despite the incredible chaos and danger they faced. The efforts of those who helped the 60 kids off the teetering school bus prevented what could have been the greatest tragedy of the collapse. Additionally, Mayor R.T. Rybak deserves credit for what was a flawless emergency response. In an unforeseen emergency situation, it is critical to have a detailed, and well-rehearsed plan. It was evident the city was prepared to respond.
In the hours after the collapse, local, state, and federal officials quickly took control of the disastrous scene by efficiently sharing responsibilities. Governor Pawlenty showed leadership in his ability to effectively manage the crisis. And the Minnesota Twins organization made the correct decision to play their baseball game, preventing the chaotic exit of 20,000 fans with no place to go. When a crisis occurs, quick, accurate judgments are necessary, and on every level, the response to this tragedy was commendable.
In the coming weeks, we have more critical tasks ahead of us. First, we must set in motion a plan to re-build the bridge. Already, with the lead of Congressman Jim Oberstar, we have secured $250 million in federal funds to help in that effort. In collaboration with federal, state and local governments, we can hopefully re-build the bridge by the end of next year.
Asking tough questions and seeking answers to explain why the bridge collapsed is a necessary step as well. I have been in constant communication with fellow legislators at the Capitol who will form a joint House and Senate committee to independently review previous inspection records, current information, and propose reform in order to prevent this from ever happening again.
The collapse of this bridge has cast a disturbing light on the transportation and infrastructure concerns for our state. It is likely we will have a special session this fall to address these concerns. I am currently working to help shape the agenda for the special session and would be grateful for your input.
When someone calls 911 in an emergency, they expect to receive immediate assistance. From the moments after the bridge collapse, our first responders answered that call, and as result, many lives were saved. In the weeks and months ahead, I will hold these thoughts in my mind as we take the essential steps to re-cover, re-build, and move forward from this tragedy.
Representative Tim Faust
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