OBERSTAR TAKES BACK BRIDGE STUDY MONEY

8th District Congressman Jim Oberstar's spokesman said the federal money earmarked to study a fourth Brainerd area bridge over the Mississippi River has been redesignated elsewhere. The $800,000 to study a crossing north of Brainerd had been approved in 2005. Oberstar spokesman John Schadl said the bridge did not have community support and the money could be used elsewhere in the district. Brainerd Mayor James Wallin said he was disappointed the money was taken back. Schadl said the Congressman's staff is anxious to help with transportation projects and planning in the area and would prefer a broad-based regional transportation study.