Unstable Bridge Could Get Reprieve In Indiana
EAST CHICAGO, Ind (CBS) -- An unstable bridge, which has been the object of much debate, could get a reprieve in Northwest Indiana.
As WBBM Newsradio 780's Felicia Middlebrooks reports, the Cline Avenue Bridge in East Chicago, Ind., is unsafe, and slated for demolition. But Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels says it's not too late to replace it.
LISTEN: Newsradio 780's Felicia Middlebrooks reports
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He advises putting a plan in place quickly.
The Indiana Department of Transportation announced plans on July 1 to move ahead with plans to tear down the bridge, after Ameristar Casino missed a deadline for a $35 million contribution to rebuild it.
In November 2009, the bridge was closed in for what was expected to be six weeks, after an inspection report suggested that the department lower the weight limit for vehicles crossing the bridge.
But by December of that year, INDOT had decided to have the bridge torn down.
Ameristar says it is holding off on funding repairs so it can monitor the proposed gambling expansion now on Gov. Pat Quinn's desk in Illinois.
The Transportation Department says if no plan is in place, it will entertain bids for the demolition of the bridge in November.
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