Wisconsin’s Misplaced Priorities on Display as Green Bay Bridge Sags
In yet another reminder of what happens when states ignore their existing infrastructure while plotting massive road expansions, a section of heavily traveled bridge in Green Bay Wisconsin is "sagging" nearly two feet. Authorities have closed the bridge, which carries about 40,000 vehicles a day, after frantic calls from drivers.
USA Today carried this transcript from 9-1-1 calls reporting the problem early Wednesday:
Truck driver: I hope it's not an emergency. I didn't know who else to call. ... It looks like there's a part (of the I-43 bridge) that's sagging.Dispatcher: A part that's sagging?Truck driver: Yes, usually, I mean a bridge goes like it's a hump. ... There's a section of the bridge that's actually a dip.
Under Governor Scott Walker, Wisconsin has been on a highway-building binge. Some $6 billion in projects are planned, including the $1.7 billion Zoo Interchange outside Milwaukee. But in the race to expand, other transportation priorities have suffered, including transit and the maintenance of existing roads. All the while, Walker has resisted seeking new revenues through gas taxes or tolls to shore up the state's transportation coffers.
Thankfully no one was injured in Green Bay. But perhaps it's time Wisconsin rethought its grandiose plans for a double-decker highway in Milwaukee for less splashy alternatives, like making sure the state's bridges are sound.
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog USA
To Help Save the Planet, Take the ‘Week Without Driving’ Challenge
Former Sierra Club President Ramón Cruz is urging Americans to give up driving for seven days — and support policies to make it optional for everyone.
Labor Gains: NYC Judge Tosses App Giants’ Suit to Stop Deliverista Minimum Wage
Justice Nicholas Moyne cleared the way for a long-delayed wage hike for workers who brave dangerous roads to bring food directly to New Yorkers.
Friday’s Headlines Are Charged Up
Expect a lot fewer ordinary gas stations and a few more Buc-ee's in your area as the electric vehicle transition continues.
Commentary: Let’s Talk About the Real “Fatal Flaw” on Valencia
How many people have to die before professional advocates stop endorsing the Valencia Street "experiment" on people?
Talking Headways Podcast: Beyond Greenways
This week we’re joined by Bob Searns to talk about his new book and grand ideas for walking trails that circle whole regions and more local routes that make up a new mode of green infrastructure in cities.
