Disaster declaration for communities around Crown Point bridge

Governor David Paterson declared a disaster in communities disrupted by Friday’s surprising shut down of the Champlain Bridge, linking Crown Point, NY and Addison, VT. Both states own the bridge. Vermont officials declared an emergency for these communities Tuesday.

Paterson says his declaration is meant to speed repairs and direct more state and federal money to residents and businesses taking an economic hit.

The bridge was closed unexpectedly Friday, when engineers determined the structure had deteriorated to such a degree that it could collapse into Lake Champlain.

Transportation officials say they’re considering temporary fixes for the thousands of people who use the bridge to commute each day to work.

The Associated Press reports that ferry subsidies and a pontoon bridge are being discussed.

Tune in to All Before Five this afternoon for more on the Crown Point bridge.