The street sign has read “DETOUR AHEAD” for nearly 2 years now.
Every since the tragic collapse of the Minneapolis I-35W bridge, bridges around the state have been reconsidered for structural stability. In St. Cloud, the highway 23 bridge that stretches over the Mississippi River has been closed for nearly 2 years and is starting to upset some local residents.
Matt Persons, a member of the St. Cloud community, recalls the initial closing of the bridge. “At first they told us November [2009], but it doesn’t seem to be likely [finished] by then.”
The zigzag pattern that the detour creates—twisting throughout the heart of downtown—poses challenges for businesses on East Saint Germain Street; the unofficial Main Street. Crowded roadways piled with bumper-to-bumper semi trucks can be frustrating; especially during rush hour.
Mayor Dave Kleis must have felt the hostility surrounding the bridge. His solution? Create a contest that lets the locals name the bridge. “We’ll get the public to come up with the names, they’ll also narrow it down to the top two in a vote, and the City Council will pick the final one,” Kleis stated. Contest rules can be viewed at the City of St. Cloud website.
Michael, a high school student and resident of St. Cloud, stated that he “might just have to vote.” With the City Council vote finalizing the name, that leaves his vote for “A bridge [that takes] too long,” out of the question.
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I rarely go to St. Cloud, and I still found your posting very compelling. Quotes were effectively used to organize and drive the story forward.
ReplyDeleteYou picked a very interesting topic because it's something that, i think, everyone can relate to in a way. At least with me, i've been through LOTS of detours in my life and i don't like them at all. Plus, the way you described things kept pulling me along
ReplyDeleteYou are an excellent writer!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your style and perspective, and you definitely captured my attention.
I absolutely HATE how that bridge is closed. It makes everything so confusing :) They really need to get on opening it back up. Great story.
ReplyDeleteJamie Groth
As others have noted, a really effective use of quotes -- a lot of info packed into a short blog. And I really liked the link!
ReplyDeleteRich
This was a very good topic, and I think it's pretty cool that they are gonna let someone name the bridge.
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting idea! I can see how a contest would gather excitement and lessen resentment in the community – good job Mayor Kleis. Better hurry up and finish the bridge though or he’ll have to think up another distraction. Great topic.
ReplyDeletegood link. i got sidetracked there for awhile.
ReplyDeleteGreat posting! Good use of quotes and I liked the link you put in there. Very interesting topic as well. I never go out to St. Cloud so I knew nothing about that bridge being closed but it still interested me.
ReplyDelete