Created: 11/05/2009 8:45 PM KSTP.com | Print |  Email By: Becky Nahm

Cost of New Lowry Bridge Questioned

One Hennepin County commissioner is questioning why the county is spending millions more than it needs to on a new bridge over the Mississippi River.

Commissioner Jeff Johnson says a more expensive design was chosen only because it was more visually appealing.

Johnson said, "It'll be a beautiful bridge, but we as a board need to say you know what, we cannot afford an extra $14 million right now."

According to Johnson, the board voted to spend $80 million on an aesthetically-pleasing bridge, rather than $66 million on a more standard concrete bridge.

The bridge will stand in commissioner Mark Stenglein's district. He voted in favor of the bridge. He said the new bridge will not only be nicer looking, but it will last up to 200 years.

Stenglein said, "The folks in north and northeast Minneapolis are going to have a gem here, but it's going to be here for my grandchildren to use and your grandchildren."

Johnson remains unconvinced.