Today's bridge collapse in Pittsburgh on the day that President Biden visits is a bizarre coincidence that only emphasizes the need to get on with infrastructure repairs and replacements under the President's $1 trillion Infrastructure and Jobs Act, which he signed into law on November 15. Fortunately, the reports from the collapse indicate that there were no fatalities. The bridge carries roughly 14,000 vehicles per day. More from AP:
"Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire Chief Darryl Jones said three or four vehicles were involved in the collapse and there were 10 minor injuries with three brought to the hospital. None of the injuries were life-threatening, Jones said.
At the site of the collapse, Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman said 'it’s just an awful surreal scene.'
'I hope it’s a wake-up call to the nation that we need to make these infrastructure investments.'
Authorities told motorists to avoid the area.
In a statement, the White House said Biden would proceed with his planned trip to Pittsburgh.
'Our team is in touch with state and local officials on the ground as they continue to gather information about the cause of the collapse,' the statement said. 'The President is grateful to the first responders who rushed to assist the drivers who were on the bridge at the time.'” (our emphasis)
Thirty Republican Senators voted against the Infrastructure and Jobs Act, including right-wing corporate shill Sen. Pat Toomey (Club for Plutocrat Growth - PA), who has chosen not to run for reelection in November. Those 30 should not be allowed to escape blame the next time a bridge or tunnel collapses in their state.
(photo: Collapsed bridge on Forbes Ave. Gene J. Puskar / AP)
