[mfm] BREAKING NEWS: Hernando DeSoto Bridge Closed (I-40)

[Rama]

PLEASE NOTE:

>From the article and the AP, unless they find a real issue with the
bridge, it is fully expected to have the bridge reopened Tuesday. We will
send an update on the mailing lists and the websites on the final
situation on Wednesday.

At this point in time, this is not expected to impact MFM except for
people that might be arriving today or tomorrow.

Rama

> August 27, 2007 11:34 AM
>
>
>
>
> http://www.wreg.com/Global/story.asp?S=6887104
>
> WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. (AP) - Transportation officials have closed Interstate
> 40
> in both directions in West Memphis near the Mississippi River. Officials
> say
> an inspector discovered that a bridge pier on the approach bridge west of
> the river had settled overnight. The bridge on the Arkansas side is being
> retrofitted to make keep it stable during an earthquake. Officials say the
> closure is precautionary. Tennessee Department of Transportation Chief
> Engineer Paul Degges says the bridge is being inspected to make sure it
> has
> "not been compromised by the settlement in any way." Degges says all lanes
> are blocked so inspectors can take a thorough look at the span. Motorists
> are being diverted to the Interstate 55 bridge over the Mississippi until
> further notice. Tennessee is doing the bridge work, even though it is on
> the
> Arkansas side.
>
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