DOT Awards $1B to Fix Major Freight Bridge

(IntegrityPress.org) – The US Department of Transportation has given over $1 billion for the Blatnik Bridge Replacement Project, which will immensely help the towns of Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin, as the bridge currently standing is not in a good state of repair. This decision by the US DOT was praised by both Democratic and Republican representatives from Wisconsin and Minnesota. The collaboration of state leaders from both cities was the main reason that the necessary funds were able to be allocated for such a huge, but important project.

For more than six decades, the Blatnik Bridge has served as a vital economic link between Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin. Congressman Stauber stressed the importance of addressing the aging infrastructure to sustain the economy of both cities. He expressed pride in the bipartisan effort that contributed to securing the funding.

Senator Klobuchar, who claims to advocate for bipartisan legislative support, emphasized how important replacing the Blatnik Bridge is for the safety and reliability of daily commuters, businesses, and communities in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The Department of Transportation has outlined that the replacement bridge aims to fix the foundations and infrastructure of the bridge, enhance capacity, and incorporate a shared-use road so cyclists and pedestrians will have a much easier time crossing to either state.

US Senator Tammy Baldwin highlighted the positive repercussions of the federal grant, emphasizing its role in ensuring the efficiency of products being delivered by truck to both cities and states. She noted that a new bridge would make travel much easier and safer between Duluth and Superior.

Despite the positivity from representatives from both states, criticism was given by the Minnesota DFL party, specifically pointing out Congressman Stauber’s opposition to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. DFL Chairman Ken Martin explained that the funding for the Blatnik Bridge was made possible due to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Congressman Stauber had voted against.