Stone Arch Bridge: What a Gift to Be Here | Becka Thompson
Thank you for giving me the chance to be your advocate.
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” — Ferris Bueller
Friends,
Standing on the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis this week reminded me how quickly life moves and how important it is to pause and be present. The last few days felt like that film: fast, disorienting, and full of meaning.
I will not rehash what happened at the DFL convention. I will say this clearly: I am not DSA. I disagree with their tactics and talking points, and I am concerned about where that ideology is taking the DFL. I also believe we can course-correct together.
Why the Stone Arch Bridge moment matters
This bridge is more than stone and river views. It is a place where Minneapolis shows up for each other. When the Stone Arch Bridge reopened months ahead of schedule and leaders invited the public to celebrate, it felt like a promise kept. It said we can finish big things on time and share them with the people who use them every day. For context, local coverage noted the reopening came nearly three months early: FOX 9 report.
What I heard on the Stone Arch Bridge this week
On the span, I heard gratitude. Parents pointing out kayakers to their kids. Grandparents taking photos. Runners moving freely again. When places like the Stone Arch Bridge open early, people notice. And they ask the right next question: if we can do this, what else can we get right together?
How the Stone Arch Bridge reopening reflects our city
- Deliverables over slogans. The bridge reopened for people walking and biking ahead of schedule. Residents feel results, not talking points.
- Coordination works. When agencies publish clear timelines and stick to them, the public can track progress.
- Momentum is contagious. A visible win creates room to tackle the next basics.
Back to basics, together
I am a teacher. I measure, adjust, and show results. That is how we will work together. We will focus on basics you can feel on your block:
- Infrastructure and maintenance. Streets, sidewalks, parks, plowing that arrive on time.
- Public safety. Visible patrols, faster response, safer corridors for kids and seniors.
- Value for dollar. When you open your tax bill, you should see where your money shows up.
If this vision resonates, Volunteer with our team, Donate if you are able, and read how we are investing in parks across the city, including the North Commons Park: $45M Transformation. For specifics and timelines, visit our Issues page.
Thank you
The Stone Arch Bridge reminded me why I serve. When we show up together — neighbors, workers, and leaders — we move forward. Thank you for believing in this place. Thank you for building it with me. Thank you for being here.
Let us keep going. See you out there.
~ Becka
