Workshop finalizes aesthetics of I-35W bridge

10/24/2007

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Final design details of the new Interstate 35W bridge are being decided today at a design workshop at a Minneapolis hotel.

About 80 people are participating in the workshop, including architects, elected officials, neighborhood residents and transportation authorities.

Among the decisions are the color of the bridge and the shape of the piers that will support it.

Minnesota Department of Transportation project manager Jon Chiglo says the design will be final by the end of the day.

Construction on the bridge's foundation is expected to begin by Nov. 1.

The bridge under discussion will replace the one that collapsed Aug. 1, killing 13 people and injuring about 100.