http://cptv.vo.llnwd.net/o2/ypmwebcontent/Jeff%20Cohen/2013_08_02_JC%20130802%20DOT.mp3
If you drive on Hartford-area highways, you've probably seen it -- graffiti on state bridges that refer to the attacks of September 11. They've become an annoyance for the state.
Douglas Harris says he's never really seen anything like it.
"We've identified certain areas. Sisson Avenue, 1-84 east and westbound was hit hard. 91, where five and 15 meet, 91 north. The underpass of the Charter Oak Bridge has been hit hard several times."
Harris works for the state Department of Transportation. He says the graffiti is on bridges and overpasses, and it usually says "911 Truth," with some reference to building seven. That's one of the building's that collapsed that day. Official accounts say the building collapsed as a result of the World Trade Center attacks; conspiracy theories say it was a controlled demolition.
But the graffiti is a real pain for Harris, the DOT, its elected bosses, and commuters. Painting over it isn't easy -- it causes lane closures, it often can't be done in winter, and it costs money. But that's nothing compared to the risk that the graffiti artist, or artists, faces.
"I cannot believe how this person or persons are getting to these locations...But I tell you something right now. He's risking is life...I will say that this person is special, and I'd like to see him stop, really. Because he is, he's good at what he does, if there is such a thing as being good at that."
Harris says painting over the graffiti isn't the highest priority for the state. But it will be done.
For WNPR, I'm Jeff Cohen.
