MKT Bridge at Boonville: Former DNR Directors allowed to file as 'friends of court'

Attorney Dale Reesman commented on yesterday's positive ruling by the Court of Appeals on the lawsuit regarding the future of the MKT (Katy) Bridge in Boonville, Mo. "We are extremely pleased that the Court of Appeals has granted leave to the City and the other friends of the court," said Reesman. Former DNR Directors G. Tracy Mehan III, Steven Mahfood, and Frederick Brunner together with Mrs. Edward T. (Pat) Jones, the donor of the funds to purchase and substantially complete the trail, and Raye Reynolds, former vice president and property manager for MKT who negotiated and signed the agreement, are all in support of the suit filed by Attorney General Jeremiah Nixon. " This is an important step in the appellate review and gives the Court the opportunity to hear from persons other than Union Pacific Railroad and current DNR Director Doyle Childers who are the parties in the lawsuit," Reesman said.

Paula Shannon, Chair of the Save the Katy Bridge Coalition, announced the Second Annual Save the Katy Bridge Festival to be held on Sunday, Oct 1, 2006 from 12-4 pm at 1st Street between Morgan & Spring Streets in Boonville, Mo. Shannon stated, "I am thrilled with the energy of our group to continue the effort to Save the Katy Bridge. This year's event is greatly expanded due to increased interest and support coming forward to participate", she added.

"There is a wonderful list of musicians representing over 400 years of musical experience," said Shannon. Historic Mitchell cars and wagons will be featured as well as tours of Boonville's historic railroad district. Loads of children's activities and a root beer garden with food and soft drinks makes this a "not to be missed Sunday afternoon celebration," Shannon said.

" The announcement about the lawsuit makes it the perfect time for a celebration of the Bridge and the efforts of the community and the state to save this unique structure," she added.