On July 14th we have an opportunity to show the MN Legislature that we really want the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge in Bloomington to be replaced so that we can have better access to the Long Meadow Lake Unit of the MN Valley NWR. Representative Ann Lenczewski from Bloomington has worked hard on this issue since the old bridge was shut down. She is very confident that she can get funding for a new bridge included in the bonding bill that will be passed in the next legislative session, but she needs to show her fellow legislators that there is strong popular support for this project. She has arranged to have key legislators visit the site on Saturday, July 14th around noon. We need to show our support by attending this rally in large numbers. Other constituent groups such as the bikers are planning to be there as well, but we need to be there too to show our political strength. I suggest that we all bring our binoculars so it will be clear who we are. Not only do we need to help support Ann Lenczewski's efforts to get funding, but we need to be at the table when the bridge is designed and built. I urge you to take an hour or two out of your day on Saturday, July 14th and head to the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge to show your support. The bridge can be reached by exiting Hwy 77(Cedar Avenue) at Old Shakopee Rd.(just south of 494 in Bloomington) and traveling west to the first stoplight. Parking at the bottom of the hill may be limited so watch for signs directing you to nearby parking areas and be prepared to walk down the hill to the bridge. If you would like to help out as a volunteer please let me know. I'm particularly looking for someone who might be able to video the event and put together a short edited version for YouTube. I will have more details as we get closer to the event. Bob Williams, Field Trip Coordinator
