Minneapolis marks 5 years since bridge collapse
MINNEAPOLIS — It was five years ago that the Interstate 35W bridge collapsed into the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, killing 13 people.
There are several observances Wednesday to commemorate the Aug. 1, 2007 collapse. Three local arts organizations created a musical composition, a short play and five poems to be debuted during a late afternoon program at Mill City Museum near the bridge site. The event coincides with the time of the rush hour collapse.
That will be followed by a photo exhibition in the museum’s lobby. Artist Vance Gellert spent the last two years interviewing and photographing survivors, first responders and others affected by the collapse. In all, 145 people were injured in the collapse.
Gov. Mark Dayton has ordered Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff today to mark the anniversary.