After a phone conversation this morning with experts from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) and Mn/DOT Commissioner Tom Sorel, Congressman Walz issued the following statement today regarding Mn/DOT's decision to close the Highway 43 Bridge in Winona, Minn. The bridge spans the Mississippi River and acts as a major thoroughfare for communities like Winona, Minnesota and Fountain, Wisconsin.
"While this closure will be a major disruption to local business, citizens and tourists, I applaud Mn/DOT for putting safety first. This bridge shows serious signs of wear and tear and it is appropriate that engineers and safety experts complete a thorough review of the structure before it is reopened partially or fully to traffic."
"This closure is particularly challenging for Winona area residents because it magnifies the pain at the pump by increasing commutes upwards of 65 miles each direction. I am working closely with local officials and areas residents to ensure that they are fully involved in helping to solve this problem. I was assured by Commissioner Sorel that Mn/DOT will move swiftly to conduct a thorough and appropriate review to determine the next steps."