“We had no real problems. We had a lot of tired people, a lot of sweaty, tired, happy people.”
Todd Kelly, MultiCare spokesman, at the conclusion of the 5K bridge run-walk.
“I was piping across the bridge, and I heard people cheering. I thought they were cheering for runners, but then I realized, ‘Hey, they’re cheering for me.’”
Kyle Lytle, Tacoma Scots bagpiper
“All this stuff you’re walking on, we built.”
Bruce Russell, Glacier Northwest dump truck driver who worked on the bridge
“This is going to be a memory that stays with them for the rest of their lives.”
Lisa Smith of Olympia, escorting her 4-year-old daughter,
Albany, and 7-year-old son,
Elijah, across the bridge
“It is overwhelming.”
Amelia Tabet, 92-year-old University Place woman who also crossed both previous Tacoma Narrows bridges
“I’m trying to catch up with my mom, but we’ve lost her.”
Woman pushing a baby stroller and talking on a cell phone
“This is probably the most magnificent one mile in the state of Washington, if not anywhere. It is an engineering feat that you just have to stand back and admire.”
State Rep. Pat Lantz, D-Gig Habor
“Keep it moving. Keep it moving. … Make a hole here, folks. We’ve got a person in a wheelchair.”
Man stuck in pedestrian gridlock near dedication ceremony
“I’m sorry he’s not here to have a hug and see that twinkle in his eye.”
Linea Laird, state Department of Transportation’s bridge project manager, praising the late Sen. Bob Oke and his contributions to the bridge project
“Until yesterday it was our bridge. Today it’s your bridge. Enjoy it and enjoy it safely.”
Manuel Rondon, project manager, Tacoma Narrows Constructors
“How are we going to get out of here?”
Dave Brown, bridge visitor, noting the crush of people following the dedication ceremony
“My shift starts tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. I’m excited. I’m good to go.”
Jeff Tuttle, tollbooth operator who collected the ceremonial first $3 toll from State Treasurer Mike Murphy
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