Minnesota Governor Statement Regarding I-35W Bridge Disaster

Governor Pawlenty statement in reaction to information released today by the National Transportation Safety Board

January 15, 2008 -- Saint Paul – The following is a statement from Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty in reaction to information released today by the National Transportation Safety Board.

“Although the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation has not been completed, today we learned the I-35W Bridge had a serious original design flaw that existed from the time the bridge was built in the 1960s.

“Since the bridge collapse, I have encouraged politicians and members of the media not to make judgments about the cause of the collapse until the NTSB investigation is complete. Unfortunately, my suggestion was not widely followed.

“Some individuals have leapt to premature conclusions. The NTSB clearly stated today the original design flaw was unrelated to subsequent inspections or maintenance of the bridge.

“Again, while the NTSB investigation is not complete, the focus of the investigation appears headed in a direction different than many of the political claims that have been made. It is our hope that at least now people will reserve further judgment until the investigation is complete and that we strive to address these matters in a fair, factual and non-political manner.

“Today, I am directing MnDOT to recalculate load capacity for the 23 trunk highway bridges that are similar in design to the I-35W Bridge. The NTSB is recommending these recalculations be made prior to any planned modification or operational changes. We are taking this a step further by recalculating this information for all 23 of these bridges, regardless of whether there are any planned modifications.”

Source: Minnesota Governor

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