Private firm hired to investigate bridge collapse reports

St. Paul, Minn. — State lawmakers get a report this morning from the law firm they hired to investigate the 35W bridge collapse.

Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Steve Murphy, D-Red Wing, says he wants to know if the state can improve its bridge program.

"Of course that encompasses a lot of different things. I mean everything from better planning to better communication, right down the line. But, we asked them a big question and I'm hopeful they come back with some recommendations," said Murphy.

A special legislative committee is looking into Minnesota's bridge inspection, maintenance and construction program. The National Transportation Safety Board is trying to determine exactly what caused the 35W bridge to fall last August.