Governor remarks about construction failures that “shit happens”

by Brian Leubitz

The new eastern span of the Bay Bridge has been a long time in coming. It’s been due for replacement since the Loma Prieta earthquake way back in 1989, and since then there has been much discussion about visual aesthetics, “landmark” status, cost and even some chatter about just getting it done. The bridge was set to open in August, but that may get bumped because of some faulty welds. Gov. Brown was waxing philosophical about the issue.

“Don’t know if it’s a setback. I mean, look, shit happens.”

“There are very professional engineers that are looking

at this thing, and when they’re ready to give us their report, I think the public will be satisfied,” he said.

Three dozen cracked bolts — discovered by Caltrans bridge engineers in mid-March — on the new bridge’s single tower suspension span could throw a wrench into those plans. Administration officials may be forced to delay the opening of the new span of the Bay Bridge — in the works since the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake — depending on the results of a study to be released Wednesday. (Steve Harmon / BANG)

Shit. It Does Happen. However, for the time being Brown, who had a lot to do with the planning as Mayor of Oakland, is looking forward to a big party to go along with the opening. We’ll find out more later today about whether it will go off as smoothly as he would like it.