WASHINGTON   -  {U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) today participated in the dedication of a new Mississippi River bridge at Cape Girardeau to her late husband, U.S. Rep. Bill Emerson. 

 

In her remarks, Emerson said, “Our beautiful new bridge is a symbol that this region is continuing to grow.  For Cape Girardeau and the entire area, the bridge signals our entry into a new century of transportation, commerce, and ideas.  For me, the bridge is a testament to what men and women can do when faced with daunting odds and seemingly insurmountable challenges.”

 

Saying the bridge would not be possible without the patient advocacy of state, local and federal leaders, Emerson also singled out her late husband, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1981 to 1996.  Bill Emerson originated efforts in Congress to authorize and then fund the bridge project.

 

“Bill Emerson, built bridges of a different kind.  He connected good ideas with the people who could make them work.  He inspired his constituents and colleagues.  He put Americans in touch with the inner resources they needed to fulfill their potential.  We are dedicating this bridge to Bill – his work and his memory,” Emerson said.

 

Emerson also urged residents of Southeastern Missouri and Southern Illinois to take ownership of the new structure: “The Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge is a symbol of what we can accomplish together.  It is a reminder that, with diligence and effort, we can ensure that rural America is not left out or left behind.  We can bestow the blessings of progress on our children.  We can unite the dissimilar, create useful beauty, and empower the dreams in every American.”

 

The Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge contains 13 million pounds of reinforcing steel, nearly 244 million pounds of concrete, and 171 miles of cable.  The 4,000-foot-long structure will carry 14,000 cars each day.

 

For the full text of Emerson’s remarks, please contact Leslie Herbst in Emerson’s Cape Girardeau office at 573-335-0101.

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