All Minneapolis-Style Bridges Are Safe Says MoDOT
JEFFERSON CITY, (SLFP.com), October 7, 2007 - Thorough inspections of Missouri bridges similar in design to the Minneapolis bridge that collapsed two months ago are complete, and all are confirmed to be safe to cross.
Missouri Department of Transportation inspectors conducted complete inspections of the 11 bridges in the state with the deck truss design used in Minneapolis, and coordinated with neighboring states to inspect three additional deck truss bridges under their jurisdiction. Inspections began the morning after the Aug. 1 Minneapolis bridge collapse, as requested by Gov. Matt Blunt.
In a statement, Governor Matt Blunt said, "The tragedy in Minnesota was an important reminder that we must continue to be diligent to protect the safety of Missourians and others who travel our roads, bridges and highways. I am pleased with MoDOT's quick response to my directive to immediately evaluate and inspect bridges in Missouri and accept their report.
"I am also pleased that the General Assembly moved quickly in the special session to expedite our innovative plan to replace or repair more than 800 Missouri bridges. Our Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Plan has become a national model for other states seeking to improve their transportation infrastructure."
Quick action on these bridges was critical, said MoDOT Director Pete Rahn. "We're grateful for the governor's leadership in making sure these bridges are safe. The goal of our bridge inspection program is to make sure any bridge that's open is safe to drive across. After what happened in Minnesota, we needed to look again to confirm these bridges' safety."
Substantial wear was found on several of the 14 bridges - not surprising, considering their age. "Our inspections showed quite a bit of rust and other deterioration, which is typical for these older bridges," said State Bridge Maintenance Engineer Carl Callahan. "In a few cases we made repairs right away, but in most cases there was no immediate action needed, so we'll schedule maintenance as soon as possible to make sure they stay safe."
The average age of the 14 deck truss bridges is 70 years old.
Each of the bridges received an in-depth inspection of all its support structures using a Snooper truck - a large truck with a huge mechanical arm that carries inspectors under the bridge. This allowed them to get a close-up look at all important structural features, such as piers, supporting beams, the steel truss and its joints, and other load-bearing parts. Each of these in-depth inspections took several days to complete.
All of Missouri's bridges are inspected every two years - more frequently if needed. There are more than 10,000 bridges on the state highway system.
American Planners Recognize Delmar Loop As One of Ten Great Neighborhoods Nationwide
ST. LOUIS, (SLFP.com), October 7, 2007 - The American Planning Association (APA) has announced the country's first 10 Great Neighborhoods and 10 Great Streets to be singled out through the new national program, "Great Places in America."
Launched last spring, Great Places in America is APA's flagship program celebrating places of exemplary character, quality, and planning. Places, such as the Delmar Loop,in University City, are selected annually and represent the gold standard in terms of having a true sense of place, cultural and historical interest, community involvement, and a vision for tomorrow.
"We salute the dedication and contribution of the countless individuals whose efforts have not only helped bring about these wonderful streets and neighborhoods, but have made them flourish," said APA Executive Director Paul Farmer, faicp. "We are honored to recognize their efforts to create safe and sustainable places to live, work, and visit. These Great Places are singled out because they showcase what can be achieved in communities across the country," Farmer said.
Lambert-St. Louis International Airport Goes Wi-Fi
ST. LOUIS, (SLFP.com), October 7, 2007 - Passengers can stay connected Passengers and visitors to Lambert-St. Louis International Airport can stay connected to home or office after the completion of a new Wi-Fi network, provided by Concourse Communications.
Wi-Fi users can access service across a majority of areas in all terminal and concourses. The cost is $7.95 per day, charged upon connection (with access up to 24 continuous hours) for users who do not have a Wi-Fi subscription.
Users who already have a wireless access subscription may access the Internet using their own provider accounts. Concourse Communications currently has Roaming Agreements with AT&T Wi-Fi, Boingo, iPass, T-Mobile, Go Remote and Orange France. The cost to the user will be in accordance with their specific subscription agreement.
All Lambert Wi-Fi users will have access to the Lambert St. Louis International Airport website for no charge-no subscription or day pass required. This allows users to get the latest airline arrival and departures, travel guides and even food and beverage information for free.
|
How To Reach Us:
