What is the Issue?
In June of 2008, the Allegheny County Department of Public Works began a $47 million rehabilitation of the Rankin Bridge, scheduled to finish in early 2010. The rehabilitation includes widening lanes, installing a concrete barrier to separate opposing traffic, repairing and reinforcing the steel superstructure, and covering the bridge in a fresh coat of lead-based paint.
The 56 year-old Rankin Bridge was last painted over 20 years ago. At that time, the lead-based paint was not properly contained and ended up on cars, plants, and in the Monongahela River. The fumes and particulate matter permeated nearby communities and businesses, dangering the health and well-being of residents throughout the Mon Valley.
Now that the public consciousness is more sensitive to environmental protection, the Rankin Bridge rehabilitation presents a unique opportunity for nearby communities to come together to investigate and monitor the bridge project as it progresses. This blog acts as a home for the investigation documentation as well as a forum for taking direct action toward maintaining and improving the community during the two year project.