KPLU Local News
(2010-06-24)
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The South Park Bridge will close Wednesday, June 30, 2010.
AP photo
Officials have scrambled to raise money for a new bridge. This week they're finally making progress.
King County Councilwoman Jan Drago says the county didn't realize the 79-year-old bridge had to be closed until this year.
She says facing a total shutdown of an important roadway motivated lawmakers.
"The closure has really brought the issue to everyone's attention," she says. "And that's why the entire region has rallied behind it and we're all going to help fund it."
Governor Chris Gregoire says the state will chip in with $20 million in federal funds it receives to maintain bridges.
The King County Council, Seattle City Council and Port of Seattle also promised to contribute.
The local money only adds up to a little more than half of the $131 million price tag, though.
So the county will ask the federal government for $40 million.
It won't be a slam dunk. The county's last application for stimulus funds was denied.
Drago says things will be different this time around.
"With the strong regional support that we have, we think we'll be in a very, very good position," she says.
Last time, local governments were not so helpful.
If the stimulus money comes through, Drago says the project is shovel ready. That means construction could begin early next year.
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