Stillwater lift bridge legislation stirs up debate from local politicians

Stillwater Lift Bridge
The Stillwater Lift Bridge
MPR photo/Marc Sanchez

With bi-partisan bills moving through the House and Senate, it looks more likely that the old Stillwater Lift Bridge might be replaced by a larger four-lane bridge. But opponents haven't backed down. They want a smaller bridge that would be less expensive and, they argue, less disruptive to the scenery along the St. Croix River.

MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke to advocates from both sides of the issue. Stillwater Mayor Ken Harycki is hoping Congress passes legislation to allow Minnesota and Wisconsin to build a new four-lane bridge over the St. Croix River. Minnesota Democratic Congresswoman Betty McCollum opposes that legislation.