South Park Bridge

Today, who has strong feelings about the old West Seattle Bridge, destroyed by an errant freighter in 1978? Or the failed old spans across the Tacoma Narrows and Hood Canal? Those were accidents, acts of God. But tonight’s wake for the South Park Bridge, which closes today, was entirely preventable. Civic process has failed the hard-working residents on both sides of the Duwamish. Shamefully, politicians still can’t produce the $131 million necessary to replace the decrepit 78-year-old drawbridge. Does anyone look good in this infrastructure debacle? King County Executive Dow Constantine has lobbied hardest for the replacement funds. And the villains? Future mayor Mike McGinn opposed the Regional Transportation Investment District ballot initiative three years ago. Funny how this kind of shit never affects North Seattle, where the N.E. 45th St. Viaduct is being easily replaced. Tonight, before a moment of silence (at 7 p.m.), drummers from the Duwamish Tribe will march across the span. After that, bagpipers will play a Hibernian elegy. Then the fiesta begins in earnest, with the New Orleans Funeral Band, Trio Lucero del Norte, and Baby Gramps. Where should you mourn afterward with food and drink specials? Local businesses impacted by the closing include Muy Macha, Jalisco, and Loretta’s Northwesterner. (For others, like the County Line Tavern, it’s too late.) Festivities occur at 14th Ave. S. & S. Cloverdale St. BRIAN MILLER

Wed., June 30, 6-10 p.m., 2010