[gridlock]

If those who designed the bridge in 1964 miscalculated the loads and used metal parts that were too weak for the job, it would recast the national debate that has emerged since the collapse a week ago, about whether enough attention has been paid to maintenance, and raises the possibility that the bridge was structurally deficient from the day it opened. It does not explain, however, why the bridge stood for 40 years before collapsing.

The degree of ignorance about engineering matters in the popular press astounds me. I expect people to be a little misinformed, but not this mind-bogglingly stupid.

[crazyshrink]

I really agree with you on the ignorance and laziness of reporters on the engineering aspects. The continuous reports of structural flaws was a perfect example.

[EGPWS]

The degree of ignorance about engineering matters in the popular press astounds me.

More appropriate.