New Bay Bridge Span Much Safer Than Older Bridge

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Engineers say the new span of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge would be able to handle a large earthquake much better than its aging counterpart which was damaged by the Loma Prieta temblor in 1989.

The Contra Costa Times reports analysis from three agencies overseeing the Bay Bridge construction shows the new span would be able to withstand shaking from a major quake. The information was presented to Bay Area lawmakers who requested a briefing in the wake of public concerns about the $6.4 billion span's seismic safety.

More than 30 seismic safety rods broke after being tightened in March, forcing officials to scramble to repair the damage. The span is scheduled to open Labor Day weekend, but a decision will be made next month about whether the opening will be delayed.