Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) announced a $400 million federal grant to improve the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
The funding is designed to help upgrade the bridge for protection against earthquakes as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Acts passed in 2021.
Buttigieg, Pelosi announce $400M federal grant for Golden Gate Bridge: 'manifestation of America' https://t.co/76dXCDku7r
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"From the very moment that it opened, this bridge has stood as one of the most essential and recognizable in our country," Buttigieg said.
"Its location, its proportions, its design make it not just the defining emblem of the Bay Area, but one of the great physical emblems of the United States itself," he added.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stood in front of the Golden Gate Bridge on Monday, to announce a $400 million federal grant to improve the iconic structure. https://t.co/uVY1azvC4q
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"Essentially you move from having shock pads to brake pads on this bridge," said Mitch Landrieu, White House infrastructure coordinator.
"So when that bad thing you think might happen, should it ever happen, prepare for the worst, help for the best," she added.
The bridge reportedly carries over 100,000 vehicles per day, a total of 37 million per year, including half a million freight trucks. The vital connection point serves as a key piece of transportation and business for the Bay area.
The announcement also included an update on approved federal funds following massive storms that have caused flooding and wind damage across large parts of California.
A total of $10.2 million was made immediately available to repair damaged roads, according to Buttigieg.
In addition to California's grant for the Golden Gate Bridge, other initial funds related to the act will support bridges in Kentucky, Connecticut and Illinois.
Source: Fox News
