Saw it today.

I didn't make a special trip, and I didn't get a look at the stuff down in the river; but I did finally get a glimpse of the space in mid-air where the bridge used to be.  The kids had pediatrician's appointments, which took us across the river for the first time in a week.  As I drove on University Avenue from Mark's office to the clinic, and approached the 35W highway entrance, the first thing we saw were signs:  a "No Right Turn" arrow and an orange one stating "This ramp closed starting June 18."  The ramp was blocked by concrete barriers (for all I know those might have been up since the closing of the on-ramp to begin the resurfacing work).  In front of the barriers, a couple of folding chairs, one of which supported a police officer.  And the yellow caution tape, of course.

Beyond that, looking south, I could see the tilt of the approach span, which still holds a few silent cars at odd angles.  It looks very much like a toy highway, left in scattered pieces by some giant's child.  I have seen the pictures, but I inhaled cold air when it came into view.

In with the new image, out with the old.

They are saying that the new bridge, a ten-lane span with room for LRT and bus lanes, will be fast-tracked.  Firms that want to bid on contracts were to prove their qualifications by today.   They want it in by the end of next year, which seems insanely fast; but at the same time it's hard to believe I'll be taking surface streets to cross downtown for the next year-and-change.

Comments

[Jennifer]

We went to see the bridge on Tuesday evening. What haunted me the most was the cars strewn about the sections of the road severely slanted down toward the river. I can't imagine looking down that slope and praying that your emergency brake would keep you from tumbling down into the heap. Also haunting; the numbers and letters spray painted in bright pink on the cars left behind. It was very somber. I was struck by the respectfulness of the people, it felt like a funeral. Even the police officers protecting the site were polite and helpful. After we stood for a while, near the Riverview Condos, one officer exited his car and approached us, seemingly to invite conversation. He gently answered any inquiries concerning where to go for better viewing and giving any updates to the progress of the recovery. It felt as though, in some way, the police presence is working to protect our raw emotions as well as trying to impress upon us a feeling of security amidst a tragic situation.