791 Comments:
Lots of wild speculation on the various channels. Can't wait for some more "official" word to come out.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 7:52 PM on August 1
That is some freaky stuff. DeRusha is on the air right now giving a blow by blow.
»» Submitted by »»» jtd at 7:53 PM on August 1
Could people who have to go that way start checking in. Yepnope, I left you a voicemail but phones are royally fucked so...
I'm praying for everyone to get home safely.
»» Submitted by »»» Bixby at 7:57 PM on August 1
It's this bridge
MPR reports.
KARE11 reports.
Jason is on the scene, reporting.
I hope everyone is safe. I hope for the best for those out there. This all just looks so sureal. Be well all.
»» Submitted by David Foureyes at 7:59 PM on August 1
Cell phone companies are asking people to avoid unnecessary phone calls as the system is overloaded.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:04 PM on August 1
I tried calling some friends up there and it took 5 or 6 times to get through.
»» Submitted by »»» jtd at 8:05 PM on August 1
My text messages are delayed too. But I heard from Rich and he's ok. He was going that way, but didn't take 35. I hope everyone else is safe too.
»» Submitted by »»» jenc17 at 8:07 PM on August 1
Here's the first eyewitness report I can find.
»» Submitted by Bucky at 8:06 PM on August 1
Very scary. I am wishing everyone involved well.
»» Submitted by »»» rhyno at 8:09 PM on August 1
Very scary stuff. Never saw this coming. We use that stretch of road quite often.
»» Submitted by »»» yoder at 8:06 PM on August 1
I don't understand where all the rush-hour cars went. I'm speaking to a Henn Co Dep Sheriff relative who's down there, and they're not seeing many cars in the water.
»» Submitted by »»» bobby_b at 8:09 PM on August 1
KSTP tv has been interviewing a few people who were on the bridge...they said it shook and then pancaked.
Glad amber and rich you are OK
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:10 PM on August 1
KSTP said 30-50. They are talking to a safety engineer now.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:12 PM on August 1
Apparently, bobby_b, a lot of them were able to back up and reverse in time. Hopefully that's the case and not that most of them are already totally submerged in the river...
Thanks, Kwatt...
»» Submitted by »»» amber at 8:11 PM on August 1
KSTP said a May 2006 inspection noticed cracking in the steel structure at the girders under the roadway and their connections.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:12 PM on August 1
I was six blocks from the bridge when it happened. Indoors. Didn't hear a thing. Took the skyway home and that's when I found out.
This is so scary. I can't believe what I'm seeing. I pray that everyone is okay.
»» Submitted by »»» Ingrid at 8:13 PM on August 1
I hate network news! aggghhhhh
»» Submitted by esquared at 8:13 PM on August 1
Glad amber and rich you are OK
Well, I'm not Amber, but she's ok too.
»» Submitted by »»» jenc17 at 8:14 PM on August 1
hope everyone is ok
»» Submitted by »»» geoff at 8:16 PM on August 1
There's a lot of media and individuals throwing theories, rumors and various bits and pieces of history around without context.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 8:15 PM on August 1
Shit, now I'm worried about yepnope.
»» Submitted by »»» ranty at 8:18 PM on August 1
Live Feed on KSTP.
http://kstp.com/article/stories/S106209.shtml?cat=1
»» Submitted by Jenn at 8:11 PM on August 1
Local blogs checking in:
Afterglide is okay
Transit Librarian is okay
First Last and Always is okay
Mediation is okay
Birdchick is okay
Live Feed on KSTP.
http://kstp.com/article/stories/S106209.shtml?cat=1
»» Submitted by Jenn at 8:11 PM on August 1
What's there to throw around, Aaron? The bridge collapsed. There was road construction on it, along with the usual heavy traffic.
»» Submitted by »»» amber at 8:20 PM on August 1
PiPress reports
Judging by one aerial view on 'CCO, it looked like some cars slid under a portion of the bridge but were kind of hard to see (I had to rewind a couple of times).
»» Submitted by »»» jtd at 8:22 PM on August 1
The service road off of St. Anthony Main (the one with the big "authorized personnel blah blah" on the cul-de-sac near the UofM steam plant/Stone Arch Bridge terminus) led right down to a spot underneath the 35W bridge, providing a nice view of the locks, the Stone Arch, and the Guthrie/Mill City area. I'd ride my bike down there on Sunday morning, and sit on one of the concrete supports to "just chill for a bit".
As I'm kinda familiar with the area... that's a really big fall.
I was just down there a few weeks ago taking some pictures... After I get home I'll try to post the pictures I took of the bridge's structure/support beams... not that they're going to reveal anything; just as some kind of rememberance or somethign. Damn. This really is surreal.
»» Submitted by »»» ibran at 8:15 PM on August 1
With the construction going on north of the bridge, and the freeway reduced from three lanes to two lanes or one, I would imagine those who could have avoided the construction zone were already doing so, thus the bridge was not carrying as much traffic as it might otherwise have carried.
Driving into downtown before six, I drove south under the bridge to 4th St. I did notice quite a bit of "parked traffic" around 5:45 on the bridge, due no doubt to the lane reduction further ahead. I'm wondering if the extra weight (lbs per square inch) was a contributing factor in the bridge collapse?
»» Submitted by noodleman at 8:20 PM on August 1
Twitter update:
Alexis trying to get ahold of her cousin
Brian Moen finding out about it
Erica trying to blog about it
Rex asking for eyewitnesses and photos
Chuck uploading to YouTube
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 8:23 PM on August 1
What's there to throw around, Aaron? The bridge collapsed. There was road construction on it, along with the usual heavy traffic.
I'm talking about people coming up with really loose conclusions as to why it happened.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 8:27 PM on August 1
Amber: my parents told me they feared it was a terrorist attack.
I know... I know... but maybe that's what Aaron meant by "throwing theories."
»» Submitted by »»» ranty at 8:26 PM on August 1
A 2001 analysis by the U found that the structure should not have fatigue cracking in the "foreseeable future" accd to KSTP.
KSTP has live video of people on stretchers being taken into HCMC.
MnDOT is briefing in an hour.
In light of last week's helicopter collision in Phoenix, I hope the news choppers are being cautious.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:22 PM on August 1
I was safely ensconced at home, but I'm praying for everyone that was on that bridge. I can't imagine how horrifying that was.
»» Submitted by »»» aliecat at 8:29 PM on August 1
FBI is on the scene.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:29 PM on August 1
Yepnope is okay, got a text from her.
»» Submitted by »»» Bixby at 8:27 PM on August 1
LiveJournal user belmikey missed it by 15 minutes
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 8:29 PM on August 1
Good.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:31 PM on August 1
Oh, good to hear about Yepnope.
I think I'm going to barf. Luckily everyone I know who would use that bridge is home and safe. Thoughts and prayers to those who were there, and their friends and families.
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 8:31 PM on August 1
One confirmed fatality so far....
»» Submitted by »»» rhyno at 8:32 PM on August 1
Aw, gotcha, Aaron and Ranty...
I'm with you there, Josie.
»» Submitted by »»» amber at 8:32 PM on August 1
Political blogger Noah Kunin lives under that bridge.
He is fine and he just posted.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 8:31 PM on August 1
And now they're reporting a storm is moments away. Hopefully the interference is minimal.
»» Submitted by »»» jenc17 at 8:33 PM on August 1
WCCO update.
If anyone hears of anything us regular folks can do to help, keep us posted.
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 8:34 PM on August 1
Yes please. I can see the helicopters from my house but feel totally helpless.If there's anything an average joe can do, pass it along.
KSTP says there was no structural issues with the brudge.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:35 PM on August 1
I seriously think I might pass out. One of my biggest fears in life has been one of crossing bridges over water, particularly the Mississippi and after 26 years I'd pretty much rationalized it never happening. My family is safe. I'm just waiting to hear from one friend. I am at work alone because my mom is at a meeting and I just want to go home and cry in my own house with my own family.
Anyway, I hope everyone's friends and family are safe.
»» Submitted by »»» Bixby at 8:31 PM on August 1
Knitthink okay.
Two dolla okay
Just got a chat from Christina. She's okay and can see it from the roof of onw of her buildings
Party of Pawlenty okay
Blabked out's report.
USI is providing free wireless in the area for those of you near by.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:39 PM on August 1
Live eyewitness account on WCCO said she saw multiple fatalities.
Witness on 'CCO tv said she saw several fatalities.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:40 PM on August 1
First pictures on flickr
»» Submitted by »»» mcgsa at 8:42 PM on August 1
jinx max buy me a coke
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:42 PM on August 1
Kool Aid report okay
Kay Redding okay
EckerNet okay
Anti-Strib okay
Residual Forces okay
Kwatt, I heard another account from an industry engineer about the bridge NOT being okay....
»» Submitted by »»» ranty at 8:44 PM on August 1
I used to live on 10th Avenue kitty corner from Amoco, and we always called the bridge the 10th AVE bridge... why do they keep calling it the 10th ST bridge? KSTP and WCCO alike.
»» Submitted by mpls_kate at 8:47 PM on August 1
Show up an a MnSpeak get together and I'll buy you a Coke, Kevin.
Metroblogging is blogging about it.
MnCampiagn Report okay
What a terrible thing to happen. Those poor people.
»» Submitted by »»» teucer at 8:47 PM on August 1
4 will have an engineer on live soon says Shelby. Just saw a big lightning strike in that area.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:50 PM on August 1
Strib is looking for eyewitnesses
Everybody in my family lives within 12 blocks of the bridge. I expect they are okay, but have not heard from them yet.
Helicopters seem gone, p-douglas said the lightning is why.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:53 PM on August 1
Robin Marty is fine...
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 8:54 PM on August 1
Hope so max.
My house is straight south of the bridge almost and facing north, there is some big cloud to ground lightning out the window.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:55 PM on August 1
Powerline okay
Captain's Quarters okay
Sassy okay
To help: A call for blood.
»» Submitted by »»» amber at 8:54 PM on August 1
Photo from Karina Hill's point of view.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 8:57 PM on August 1
They need blood.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 8:56 PM on August 1
Call the Red Cross to give blood - 1 800 GIVE LIFE. They don't have anything set up tonight as of yet, but they're probably going to go through a lot of it in the rescue efforts, so you can make an appointment to go in and help them replenish. I'll be there at the Minneapolis Center tomorrow at 4.
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 8:56 PM on August 1
Kevin, do you get two Cokes now?
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 8:59 PM on August 1
Great idea. I'll plan on donating blood as well.
»» Submitted by »»» rhyno at 9:01 PM on August 1
Nuh uh. Kevin owes me one now.
»» Submitted by »»» amber at 9:02 PM on August 1
And I owe Kevin one, I guess. It's a confusing chain of Cokes.
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 9:03 PM on August 1
Technically, I think the first one to call jinx gets the Coke, so max owes me one, and I iowe josie and amber one. Dammit I can't give blood!
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:04 PM on August 1
This is nuts. I used to work two blocks from the bridge. Wondering if people I used to work with are ok.
»» Submitted by »»» PwrGeek at 9:05 PM on August 1
Stay off your phones unless absolutely necessary.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:06 PM on August 1
Another option for blood donors: Memorial Blood Centers.
»» Submitted by notthepoint at 9:06 PM on August 1
Does anyone know if they are taking donations tonight? I would be willing to go give right now if they needed me to.
I called the Memorial Blood Center and it seems as though they are closed.
»» Submitted by Jenn at 9:06 PM on August 1
Twins game still going on primarily so people aren't out travelling. Tomorrow's game postponed.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 9:07 PM on August 1
I decided to take E. Hennepin home at 6PM rather than University/35W. Wow. Freakin' out a little.
»» Submitted by »»» aeklund at 9:07 PM on August 1
Steve McPherson from Reveille (and Bottle Gang and Signal Eats Noise) just chatted with me. He occasionally comments here as McP.
Tomorrow's game postponed?
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:08 PM on August 1
Red Cross doesn't have anything set up tonight for blood donations. Your best bet is to make an appointment.
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 9:10 PM on August 1
Takes one badly-rusted-through connection on this type of bridge, or one shifting column foundation, or vandals with 2 wrenches and a couple hours. So, until the forensic engineers get it all pulled and inspected and x-rayed, consider everything you hear to be a guess.
»» Submitted by »»» bobby_b at 9:05 PM on August 1
I was at Pizza Luce. There were several guys who biked over after they heard all the sirens. They had some amazing photos.
Amazing as in terribly tragic yet a good exercise in citizen journalism.
Heads will roll for this. I'm guessing some civil and structural engineers and possibly reps from the contractors.
This will throw a lot of wrenches into the Minneapolis transportation system for quite some time.
»» Submitted by Elizabeth at 9:03 PM on August 1
So, until the forensic engineers get it all pulled and inspected and x-rayed, consider everything you hear to be a guess.
Thanks for stressing this again.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 9:11 PM on August 1
A tragedy like this reminds me of the importance to live each day to its fullest and to enjoy life. Don't sweat the small stuff...
»» Submitted by »»» rhyno at 9:10 PM on August 1
I was talking to a friend on her way home from work when we were cut off and when I found out about the bridge collapsing I tried to call her back, but I can't get through. The bridge is on her way home. I don't have a land line so trying to call anyone is hell. No one has heard from her and we can't get through to HCMC.
Does anyone know of any other way to find out more about who was on the bridge?
Please say your prayers...
»» Submitted by Cat at 9:06 PM on August 1
22 non-criticals at HCMC
6 critical
1 fatality
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:11 PM on August 1
House of Procrastination okay
Lloyletta okay
Centrisity okay
HCMC reporting one death, more than 25 injuries, all from the south side. Mostly blunt trauma injuries.
the red cross is setting up a website cat, but i dont' think it's live yet
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:14 PM on August 1
Jinx.
Anybody heard from Maz?
»» Submitted by »»» zenrhino at 9:14 PM on August 1
It's not, I tried, but thanks. I don't live far from HCMC so I tried to get info, but since I'm not family they won't tell me anything and her family lives outstate.
It's chaotic at best and trying to get any information is so frustrating.
»» Submitted by Cat at 9:15 PM on August 1
Just by basic probability, your friend is safe, stuck somewhere in the traffic snarl, and hoping no one is getting worried about her. Best bet is, have a drink, sit down, and don't start assumptions at the worst place.
»» Submitted by »»» bobby_b at 9:14 PM on August 1
we're even max.
Intersting that they said south side, I heard a reporter on 4 or 5 say they were on the north side and that everyone there was able to get to safety.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:16 PM on August 1
sorry to hear that, Cat. Hope she's OK.
»» Submitted by »»» adam at 9:17 PM on August 1
can't stop thinking about all those families driving to the Twins game... :(
»» Submitted by sad at 9:13 PM on August 1
Fiveoclockbot okay
Coldhearted Truth okay
Freedom Dogs okay
MnBlue okay
6:05?
I walked in my door after a run, looked at the clock on my stove and said to myself, "6:05 I'm still alive and it ain't no jive" mimicking an old high school teacher of mine.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:18 PM on August 1
all ok here... i left my job at the U at 4:45 thankfully...
having a hard time wrapping my head around these images/videos... doesn't even look like our city
»» Submitted by »»» solace at 9:20 PM on August 1
I wouldn't freak out except that I'm the back up for her day care and they called me because she hadn't shown up to pick her child up. That's when the panic set in.
»» Submitted by Cat at 9:20 PM on August 1
hope all is well, everyone.
»» Submitted by »»» Kal at 9:24 PM on August 1
Honey Bunny okay
Boot On okay
Power Liberal okay
M. Thomson is fine
Taulpaul is fine...
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 9:25 PM on August 1
red cr4oss website
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:26 PM on August 1
Mrs. Champs is also OK, but was fashionably late (about five minutes) to the party.
»» Submitted by »»» champs at 9:27 PM on August 1
Cat - they are interviewing a mother on KSTP right now
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:27 PM on August 1
It sounds as though the emergency response to this was exemplary. HCMC actually runs drills a few times per year to prepare for disasters.
Melissa Hughes is her name.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:29 PM on August 1
Cat - prayers with you. I hope your friend is okay.
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 9:31 PM on August 1
I was on St. Anthony Main with coworkers when it happened. I had to walk across the Stone Arch Bridge to get home and it was flooded with onlookers. Sirens going off constantly. I thought I saw Wayne down there!! Wayne were you there?
Don't go down there! Friends from all over the country calling me... took me an hour to get home.
»» Submitted by Christine at 9:23 PM on August 1
Me, too, Cat. Please keep us posted, okay?
»» Submitted by »»» amber at 9:30 PM on August 1
Bridge Wiki.
»» Submitted by grote at 9:33 PM on August 1
Although it's been on the TV for awhile... if you have a legitimate concern:
HCMC Patient Information: (612) 873-3400
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 9:34 PM on August 1
KSTP says stay away from teh 10th avenue bridge.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:35 PM on August 1
MyProntoPup okay
The Impudent Finger okay
Such a tragedy. I feel like MNspeak is one big family tonight.
I was driving across the Franklin Ave bridge to SP a week ago tonight and was on the bridge stuck @ a red light...as the cars backed up behind me I started to get nervous wondering what would happen if the weight of the idling cars became too much for the bridge. Freaky.
»» Submitted by grote at 9:32 PM on August 1
GTP in a few...
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:42 PM on August 1
that interview with the doctor was ridiculous. I know they need to ask questions and try to get answers but, "What is a life-threatening injury?" Seriously? Why would you ask that?
»» Submitted by »»» pobrien at 9:41 PM on August 1
Bob checking in. Me and Mrs. Lungs are fine, although both shocked and heartbroken. As a former Level I Trauma Center employee, I have a pretty good idea what is happening at HCMC and North Memorial right now. Sounds like all the "Orange Alert" drills are paying off. Our prayers and thoughts are with those who are injuried, lost or missing.
You too, Jason, and all the other newsies who will work long into the night this evening to try to keep us informed.
»» Submitted by »»» justpbob at 9:37 PM on August 1
this makes me so sad and a bit sick to my stomach. i hope that none of the (albeit few) people i've met here in the cities were on the bridge. and i sincerely hope that none of those people (and all of you here) have loved ones that are hurt...or worse.
My sister in law was on her way to the airport from Forest Lake around 6PM.
No one has heard from her, no cell service.
Mom in law called us freaking out crying.
This sucks. I was gonna go to Viva Voce tonight but no way do any more people need to be crowding around downtown tonight. There's a Twins game and a thunderstorm on the way, too.
Everyone please, stay away from the area tonight. Traffic will be jacked. Don't contribute to it. Sorry, Viva Voce.
»» Submitted by Bx at 9:19 PM on August 1
Did I just hear that the Hennepin and 3rd Ave bridges are closed right now?
»» Submitted by »»» joyride at 9:48 PM on August 1
Ditto Jason. How you people keep your heads in the face of something so awesome in scale and humanity I'll never know.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:47 PM on August 1
Snarkmarket okay
Jvstin okay
Buddhapatriot okay
Tale of Two Cities okay
A Place Called Blog okay
Jason is interviewing one of the rescuers of the children on the bus. Astounding tale.
This is cripplingly frightening. I hope everyone is OK.
»» Submitted by »»» acalhoun at 9:49 PM on August 1
This link is the calendar of blood drives that The Memorial Blood Center has scheduled. They do take walk ups at these - no need for an appointment.
http://www.memorialbloodcenters.org/MBC/uploads/drivecal_mpls.html
»» Submitted by Jenn at 9:47 PM on August 1
BX: Cell service is jammed. be patient. Odds are, everything is fine. I will pray jsut in case.
Shelby, I know you don't read this, but your interview with the bridge guy? EXCELLENT. Thank you. You sir are a consummate journalist.
Jason, you're amazing. Your reports are excellent as well.
Thanks again.
»» Submitted by worried at 9:47 PM on August 1
Planes are starting to fly over again so they must have re-opened the airspace in the area, which may indicated that helicopther traffic has lessened from the scene.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:49 PM on August 1
I'm in a Louisville hotel on my way back to Minnesota watching all of this. It is so surreal seeing our hometown like this. WCCO.com looks like they have a link up for people to give names of those they haven't heard from; that may help. I live in Charleston, SC for school, and after seeing the firefighters' tragedy earlier this summer, I know Minnesotans will rally together to help any way we can.
»» Submitted by worried with y'all at 9:47 PM on August 1
First rate work from Jason.
Heard from all family members but one. So far everyone is okay.
Elko's good
»» Submitted by »»» rew at 9:52 PM on August 1
good max
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:52 PM on August 1
Metafilter is discussing.
jesus look at the water rescue video on 4
oh my god
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 9:53 PM on August 1
That's a job I wouldn't want. Wow.
»» Submitted by »»» joyride at 9:59 PM on August 1
There Are No Losers Here okay
Truth v the Machine okay
Spitball okay
Katie's Beer okay
jesus look at the water rescue video on 4
oh my god
Link? I am not finding a water rescue video on CCO.
»» Submitted by Jenn at 10:00 PM on August 1
Crazy But Able okay.
SCSU Scholars okay
Police have ruled out terrorism.
I am a scuba diver and have thought about joining a rescue team, however, I just don't know if I could do it either...
»» Submitted by »»» rhyno at 10:02 PM on August 1
Metrodome Holiday Inn is where families of victims should go for info. They are triaging the info from there. From Ch. 4
»» Submitted by worried too at 10:02 PM on August 1
People need to stop assuming that an unreachable friend is anything other than "phone service and traffic sucks bad right now."
Because phone service and traffic suck right now. If you're wondering where someone is, and they're late, figure they're stuck in the locked-up traffic hoping no one's worried about them, and wishing someone knew to go let their pet out or pick up their kid at daycare.
I went through this a few years ago when some stuff happened while me and a bunch of friends were in a different city for a bit, and some stuff fell down, and no one could find each other for over a day, and with each passing hour people were becoming convinced Otherguy was dead, and . . .
I think there was as much emotional damage due to overwrought pessimism as anything else.
»» Submitted by »»» bobby_b at 10:01 PM on August 1
Just found this PDF from oim.dot about I35W, also known as Bridge 9340:
Bridge 9340 was deleted from the project and bridges 27887 and 27888 will no longer be repaired but will be painted instead. These bridges will be repaired in SFY 2007, which still has $5.4M available in the Bridge Improvement Program for additional bridge work.
Not able to parse it, but for people looking for documentation about the bridge, it's what I found.
Sounds like there might be as many as six dead.
Red Cross asking for donations at a time like this? Come on.
»» Submitted by »»» PwrGeek at 10:17 PM on August 1
All but one construction worke r accounted for. GTP says bridge was inspected in 04 and 05 with no structural damage found.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 10:19 PM on August 1
Glad to read the all clear updates on locals.
Before images are lacking around the net, and could be helpful with a markup. Has anyone posted one?
MPR's Website (Disclosure: MPR is my employer) is also looking for eyewitnesses and photos.
we rip on local tv news coverage a lot on this site, but it's at times like this that we realize the immediate impact of TV coverage and that there are still many excellent journalists (ie DeRusha) working in the medium.
»» Submitted by grote at 10:19 PM on August 1
Fantail media okay
Digital Retrograde okay
Buzz.Mn on the bridge collapse
It seems to me that there will be two stories that will come to the forefront of this: First, how did it happen; second, what did we do right.
Having lived through two disasters, I think the second question is one really worth addressing. The responses here really seem to be first-rate.
Bobbyb, you need to SHUT. THE FUCK. UP.
Everyone deals with fear differently. You being PREACHY RIGHT NOW DOES NOT HELP!!!!
/cries
»» Submitted by Bx at 10:19 PM on August 1
Julia, Strib has a photo gallery and had construction photo from 1967.
»» Submitted by »»» PwrGeek at 10:20 PM on August 1
Yeah, Bobby, shut it. I knew in my gut that neither of my parents were near it, but I've never been so happy to hear their voices.
»» Submitted by »»» josie at 10:21 PM on August 1
People smarter than I--would the road deck of this bridge have re-bar (uninterrupted) running the length of the bridge?
Amazing as it sounds, I'm not an engineer.
»» Submitted by »»» joyride at 10:20 PM on August 1
KARE11 reports that federal officials are on the way.
I am not a civil engineer. However, I'd bet dollars to donuts that the deck of the bridge was rebar-reinforced concrete throughout it's length. However, I'd doubt that you'd have continuous pieces of rebar from one end to the other. It just wouldn't be practical to have long pieces like that. You'd have several pieces of rebar spanning the bridge, joined to each other at their ends.
»» Submitted by Elizabeth at 10:25 PM on August 1
Judging by this picture, joyride, it would seem no.
I think bobby is just trying to remind people that the odds are overwhelmingy in favor of everyone's loved one being okay. No need to get snippy.
Question I can't find an answer to - why was the bridge designed the way it was, with the single span across the entire river?
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 10:23 PM on August 1
Yup there's tons o' rebar in there.
Please, people, show some simple love and keep the armchair psychology to yourselves. PLEASE.
"Overwrought pessimissm." Pffffffsht. Dumb asshole.
»» Submitted by Bx at 10:25 PM on August 1
Julia, there's at least one very good before shot on flickr, you could contact the owner about using it.
»» Submitted by »»» mcgsa at 10:27 PM on August 1
That Strib photo gallery is something else.
»» Submitted by »»» jtd at 10:28 PM on August 1
Link for Strib gallery
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 10:29 PM on August 1
Collecting flickr photos:
Adam Wolf
Steve Schmeiser
»» Submitted by »»» mcgsa at 10:29 PM on August 1
joyride, lots of rebar, but the longest you can buy is 60', so not uninterrupted. It's "tied" together by wrapping overlapping ends with fairly strong wire, but that's just to hold it in place as you pour the concrete around it.
»» Submitted by »»» bobby_b at 10:32 PM on August 1
Just received an automated call from work asking us to press 1 if we are still alive.
How very sad. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved.
»» Submitted by shortyJ at 10:28 PM on August 1
Thanks for the info and the image leads. (special thanks PwrGeek, mcgsa, s4xton, jtd) I'm watching this space for all clear updates on locals...
a terrible tragedy, but there were a lot of miracles in minneapolis today
»» Submitted by »»» bandini at 10:35 PM on August 1
Fantastic links, mcgsa.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 10:38 PM on August 1
I was biking home, and heard lots of sirens. I wondered what it was about. Saw a couple of police cars headed towards downtown on West River Road. Wondered what was going on. Got home and found out. Been on the phone with family and friends ever since. Glad everyone is okay!!!
Did anyone else find tghemselves unable to eat supper tonight?
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 10:36 PM on August 1
KARE 11 reports that only 28 people have been taken to local hospitals. I hope that this means that traffic is just very slow.
»» Submitted by »»» pobrien at 10:38 PM on August 1
Don Shelby seems to have become an expert on truss bridge superstructures in a matter of hours.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 10:41 PM on August 1
More flickr sets:
Mordac
BreeR
»» Submitted by »»» mcgsa at 10:42 PM on August 1
Holy shit! Collapse on wikipedia already!!!
»» Submitted by Christine at 10:43 PM on August 1
Jason DeRusha, I am impressed. Our nation's infrastructure sucks. This is terrible.
»» Submitted by »»» acalhoun at 10:48 PM on August 1
A few more from flickr:
Tubes.'s set
Construction in action from a few days ago by Thomas Boblett
A before shot from .jasper
»» Submitted by »»» mcgsa at 10:48 PM on August 1
Sorry! Someone already posted bridge wiki.
I'm still in shock!
»» Submitted by Christine at 10:51 PM on August 1
So true, Bandini. It's easy to forget how many lives were saved tonight. I spent a few frantic minutes trying to reach my daughter, who was at her boyfriend's house a few blocks from the scene. She was fine, but it made me flash back to a year ago when she was on board a Continental flight from Houston to Mpls. and the plane blew two tires on takeoff. We watched the hour-and-a-half ordeal live on CNN as the plane circled, burning its fuel load. I still have a bit of PTSD from that episode, and I really panicked when I couldn't get her on the phone this evening. My heart goes out to those still waiting to hear about their loved ones.
Midtopia okay
Diablo Cody okay (Johnny had driven across the bridge an hour earlier)
Dry White Toast okay (photos)
Photos from Sean Tubridy
Daily Kos on bridge collapse
MnDaily on reports from University area hospitals
mcgsa,
I have a few pictures sent to me by a friend posted on my site, including one that includes Noah Kunin's apartment. He lives literally feet from the bridge. They're on FlickR here.
»» Submitted by »»» tom at 10:53 PM on August 1
I wonder if MnDOT traffic cameras caught the collapse on video?
Shelby said it will take two years to repair. No idea what his source is. This being an interstate, it's probably under the feds authority.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 10:53 PM on August 1
The Kos thread is predictably disgusting.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 10:55 PM on August 1
Considering we have the chair of the transportation committee from Minnesota-Duluth, it'll probably get rebuilt sooner than that.
»» Submitted by Christine at 10:58 PM on August 1
Diversey's photos on Flickr. Wow.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 10:58 PM on August 1
I checked the WCCO traffic cams (MnDot System) right after it happened and all those within a mile are out. I checked again a bit ago and they still are.
There was a brief power outage, I figure this knocked them off line. The power seems to have gone out at the precise moment the bridge fell so I am not certain they would have caught anything.
»» Submitted by Jenn at 10:59 PM on August 1
More photos:
Medicine Lake Fire and Rescue carry rescue craft
Photos from Mordac
Photos from Bree-r
NYTimes on collapse
This Old Minnesota House okay
Ginger Sinatra okay (via chat)
One(me) would think that the video has to be recorded somewhere, though.
»» Submitted by »»» joyride at 11:01 PM on August 1
Post with photos from Living in 55404
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 11:00 PM on August 1
Wow. Word has already spread to China. I just got an email from a coworker asking if everyone was okay.
»» Submitted by »»» Ingrid at 11:02 PM on August 1
Missed it by ten minutes.
It sounds odd, but I almost feel guilty for making it out ok.
»» Submitted by »»» ironic at 11:05 PM on August 1
Eyewitness account from Strib
Hospitals deal with influx of injured from Strib
Party of Pawlenty has rough quotes from the Pawlenty Press conference
FWIW Minneapolis City media advisory says:
"Families concerned about relatives should call the Red Cross at (612) 871-7676. Callers can leave a message and someone will get back to them soon."
More bus service from North Metro
"Right now, the focus is on saving lives"
Timeline of bridge collapse
Background on the bridge
WCCO report 140,000 used bridge every day.
MnHeadhunter okay
"I wonder if MnDOT traffic cameras caught the collapse on video?"
They should have got it.
http://www.dot.state.mn.us/tmc/trafficinfo/metrocams/cameras/c628.html
I was at the Twins game tonight and saw the scene from the Stone Arch Bridge.
Right now, the Washington Ave., 10th St., Hennepin Ave. bridges are all closed. 94 is open and traffic is actually moving pretty well. University Ave around dinkytown is open, but not moving very fast.
Glad all you mnspeakers are alright.
»» Submitted by »»» matt at 11:18 PM on August 1
People wanting to donate money to the Red Cross can call at 612-460-4700 or do it through their Web page.
Cheek okay.
StarTribune has linked to a 2001 "Fatigue Evaluation of the Deck Truss" of the bridge sponsored by the MN DOT (but performed by U of M Dept of Civil Engineering). The abstract notes "poor fatigue details on the main truss and floor truss system."
»» Submitted by »»» miller at 11:17 PM on August 1
Axis Communications installed the servers that digitize the analog camera feeds for mndot's traffic cameras.
Noah Kunin's Photos. You can see shots under the bridge, shots before emergency personnel showed up and you get a good look at how how the structure bent in places. He is evacuated and I am posting on his behalf when he gives me updates.
»» Submitted by »»» s4xton at 11:23 PM on August 1
well guess what? the bridge didn't transform into a flying Mr. Incredible. people died, many are badly hurt, the last thing the media wants to share is the actual event to your voyeuristic needs.
»» Submitted by »»» Kal at 11:18 PM on August 1
Fatalities now at 7.
What a sad night. August 1, 2007....worst thing I've ever seen happen in the 30 years of my life lived in Minnesota. Pray or hope for the victims.
»» Submitted by Dan I at 11:30 PM on August 1
sorry people. I was replying before I hit my refresh button.
tuff night
»» Submitted by »»» Kal at 11:29 PM on August 1
Rocks Off okay
Pete Ryan okay
Kowabunga okay
Mn Democrats Exposed okay, and already complaining about how liberals have responded to tragedy
Much coverage from MPR
Max, I'm not you, of course, but maybe hold off til tomorrow . . .
»» Submitted by »»» bobby_b at 11:34 PM on August 1
MnDot cameras. Click on dots to see footage. No ffotage for three or four 35W cameras north of University.
"the last thing the media wants to share is the actual event to your voyeuristic needs."
Sorry to burst your bubble Kal, but do I remember seeing "the media" showing a couple planes flying into some buildings a few years ago. It doesn't mean it diminishes the severity of the situation.
Something about federal emergency relief for this sort of thing, but I'm not sure that it applies.
»» Submitted by »»» kwatt at 11:38 PM on August 1
I'm sorry, Bobby, but if local blogs are going to politicize this tragedy at this moment, I'm going to report it. That goes for Liberal blogs as well.
Noah Kunin's photos are amazing and tragic.
»» Submitted by »»» miller at 11:39 PM on August 1
Gov. Polenta's policies come home to roost.
This is on HIM.
»» Submitted by Raindog66 at 11:40 PM on August 1
it's the headlining article on HuffPost, if anyone is an avid reader
The reason I'm reporting it is because I think it's disgusting. Let's hold off, Raindog, until we know the facts.
Wow, even the headline news on Al Jazeera
»» Submitted by SL at 11:44 PM on August 1
sorry for the broken link; Al Jazeera
»» Submitted by SL at 11:47 PM on August 1
I suspect the Mn Democrats Exposed will be an aberration, however,
Metroblogging open thread.
Befuddled okay
Velcrometer okay
Agreed with iwilldare.com on being thankful for twitter. I was quite glad and relieved to see updates from fellow MN twitterers!
»» Submitted by Justine at 11:44 PM on August 1
I was shocked when I heard about this on the Current while painting my garage tonight. It's sad to see folks already politicizing it. Wait until the facts are in; this isn't s time for speculation.
»» Submitted by »»» sornie at 11:49 PM on August 1
This bridge tragedy reminds me of the concerns surrounding the collapse of I-580 in the Bay Area earlier this year and predictions that it would years to replace. The contracter brought in to rebuild it completed the project in 26 days!
A-MAZE-ING
His reputation on the line, contractor finishes repair early, and I-580 opens
Of course, the cause of I-580 was fairly certain (fuel truck crashes and explodes) and there will be much time needed to determine the cause of today's 35W bridge collapse but it might be possible for that road to reopen sooner than some might otherwise believe.
I'm proud of the way people in the area responded to the emergency. People were being pulled out of the water minutes before the First Responders arrived. Wow!
»» Submitted by noodleman at 11:41 PM on August 1
YOU'RE CRAP GOVERNOR!!!! YOU'RE SO FUCKEN CRAP!!!! YOU ALLOWED THIS DISASTER TO HAPPENED BY NOT FUNDING OUR PUBLIC ROADS AND BLEEDING MNDOT TO DEATH IN THE LAST SEVEN YEARS!!!! FUCK YOU!!!! AND FUCK YOU MAYOR RYBEK FOR DRIVING MINNEAPOLIS INTO THE GROUND BY NOT FUNDING POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS IN CASE OF A TOTAL EMERGENCY LIKE THE BRIDGE COLLAPSE ON INTERSTATE 35W!!!! ALSO, FUCK YOU ALL IN THE STATE LEGISLATURE FOR ALLOWING THIS DISASTER TO HAPPENED SINCE YOUR NIMRODS IN BOTH THE DFL AND THE STATE-GOP WERE MORE CONCERN ABOUT SPORTS STADIUMS, TILT-A-WHIRLS, TEENS GETTING TATTOS, GAYS GETTING MARRIED, AND CHILDREN GETTING BIRTH CONTROL PILLS, THAN BRIDGES FALLING!!!! YOU ASSHOLES HAVE BLOOD ON YOUR HANDS FOR THIS!!!!
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