Opinion: The importance of bridges
The closed Hernando DeSoto Bridge on Monday, May 17, 2021. (Mark Weber/The Daily Memphian)
Dan Conaway
Dan Conaway is a lifelong Memphian, fascinated and frustrated with his city, but still in love. A columnist since 2010, his distinguished advertising career has branded ribs in the Rendezvous and ducks in The Peabody, pandas in the zoo and Grizzlies in the NBA. Stories in Memphis tend to write themselves. He’s helped a few along. Two book collections of his columns have been published.
Bridges are magic. They connect, enable, overcome, elevate. They make big things possible when they weren’t before. They make it reachable for the many rather than the few, doable, accessible.
Topics
Hernando DeSoto Bridge I-40Related stories
Buttigieg hears of disruptions caused by broken bridge
The nation’s transportation secretary heard from freight executives about the effects of the closed I-40 bridge, fielded their suggestions and left to tour the repair work site on Hernando DeSoto Bridge.Related story:
Third bridge idea ‘long term,’ takes back seat to repairs
A third bridge for vehicular traffic at Memphis isn’t at the top of everyone’s list, coming after broadband for Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland. Related story:
Alternate route: Bridge-detour signs could be clearer
Memphians know how to detour around the closed Hernando DeSoto Bridge, but electronic signs aren’t as helpful for out-of-town visitors as they could be.
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