For Release: Saturday, November 17, 2007
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO WELCOMES REOPENING OF THE MCKINLEY BRIDGE

Project paid for with 80% federal funds, 20% state and local

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today welcomed the reopening of the McKinley Bridge.  The bridge has been closed since 2001 due to safety concerns, and Costello noted that 80% of the $46 million project was paid for with federal funding.

"The McKinley Bridge reopening is good news for our region," said Costello.  "I was pleased to earmark funds in the last two federal highway bills to help with this project.  Given the tragic event in Minneapolis this summer and our ongoing needs for more road capacity locally, this is an important investment in our transportation infrastructure.  I look forward to the bridge opening to the public."

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