A Letter To My Rep. Regarding Bridge Collapse

Dear Representative Carlson,

It is quickly becoming a matter of public knowledge that the collapse of the 35W bridge was the direct result of decisions made within the state's executive branch. According to documents obtained by the Star Tribune, MNDOT officials were discussing the imminent collapse of the bridge a year ago, which incredibly, did not result in the bridge being either reinforced or closed. Worse, the public was not told of the dangersous condition of the bridge so they could at least make an informed decision about whether or not to use it. Now, at least 12 people have been killed and dozens injured.

The legislature should begin immediate hearings to find out how these decisions were made and who made them. We cannot just move on and build a new bridge without holding those responsible, accountable. If heads don't roll over this, in the future officials will find it easier to allow a bridge to collapse and deal with the aftermath rather than take the difficult, and costly, steps to prevent it. We, the public, cannot allow that state of affairs to exist. Our very lives are at stake. The legislature should use all available remedies, including the power to impeach, to remove from office those responsible for this devastating event.

Sincerely,

Doug Benson