Pawlenty signs compensation package for bridge victims
A close-knit coalition of Minneapolis bridge collapse victims watched Thursday as Gov. Tim Pawlenty signed a $38 million package to compensate them for their injuries and losses. The ceremony at the State Capitol capped their nine-month fight for state help recovering from the Aug. 1 failure of the Interstate 35W bridge, which killed 13 people and injured 145.
“A GOOD START”: “Things will never be the same, but it will be a good start,” said Mercedes Gorden, who was bedridden for four months, has endured nine surgeries and faces at least one more to fix bones that were crushed.
Ron Engebretsen, who lost his wife, Sherry, in the collapse, said the state assistance will help in his emotional recovery. “By going through the process we have over the past few months, it really reinforces our belief in the state of Minnesota that we do the right thing here,” he said.
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Bridge victim fund clears Legislature, heads to Pawlenty
The $38 million compensation package passed the Senate unanimously after clearing the House on a 127-5 vote. Gov. Tim Pawlenty said he plans to sign the bill in the next few days.
Bridge victim fund clears Legislature, heads to Pawlenty
The $38 million compensation package passed the Senate unanimously after clearing the House on a 127-5 vote. Gov. Tim Pawlenty said he plans to sign the bill in the next few days.
Look out: Bridge on the move
The first of 120 precast hunks of the new I-35W bridge was moved to the Mississippi River Friday. Can you guess how much it weighs?
Photo left: Bridge segment on the move.
After long wait, state has relief for 35W victims
The fund caps claims at $400,000 but provides more for extraordinary losses.
Oberstar to NTSB chief: Reconsider 35W bridge hearing
The Minnesota Democrat said there is skepticism about the NTSB board, because it voted not to hold a public hearing about the bridge. One will be held, he was told.
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