Though I'm a longtime veteran of the building sector of the construction industry, I've never fully understood the typically slower pace of road and bridge construction. I'm thus very, very impressed with our new Interstate 35W bridge, and by the breakneck pace with which it was built. In opening the bridge, the planners, piledrivers, plumbers, painters and project managers should all take a well-deserved bow, and I offer a tip of my hardhat to the project team. It is a proud and joyous day for MnDOT, the construction trades, Flatiron and the entire state of Minnesota. Well done!

STEVE HAUSER, EAGAN