Scalise Statement for Ribbon Cutting of East Bound Twin Spans

"Every day we are seeing more signs that Southeast Louisiana is recovering from the devastation from Hurricane Katrina.

"The Twin Spans provide a critical link between St. Tammany Parish and the City of New Orleans, and it is very encouraging for Southeast Louisiana to have this vital bridge rebuilt stronger than the one that existed before Katina. The new “hurricane proof” design will ensure safer travel between New Orleans and St. Tammany, and will also help with future evacuations.

"Hurricane protection and recovery continue to be some of my top priorities in Congress. This new Twin Spans bridge, which are financed 100 percent by federal funds of more than $800 million, are another step in achieving our goal of building a stronger and safer region.

"I want to thank our entire Congressional Delegation for working together to obtain the funds necessary to complete this critical project, as well as all of the state and local officials who helped expedite the construction of these new Twin Span bridges. We all pulled together to ensure the millions of people who use this bridge each year will be able to continue relying on this vital artery that links our region."

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