Panel OKs $9 million Patriots footbridge

BOSTON -- A new pedestrian footbridge at Gillette Stadium has been given the go-ahead.

A state panel approved the use of $9 million in federal stimulus funds Thursday for the construction of a footbridge that will span over Route 1 and connect the Patriot Place mall with an office park Kraft proposes to build

The Kraft family has been pushing hard for the project.

It was approved by a 13-1 vote by the Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Many around Patriots Place Thursday evening said they support the project.

"I think it's money well spent, if it's going to protect people especially on busy Route 1," said Joyce Dupuis, who supports the project.

 "There probably is enough money around, I don't think the best use of stimulus money is a footbridge, but I do understand an issue with safety involved," said Steve Giarrusso, who supports the project.

Gov. Deval Patrick also has been lobbying for the project saying it will bring jobs, but some taxpayers wonder if this is the best way to use stimulus funds.

"I think Mr. Kraft has a big beautiful stadium, plenty of money, great football team, probably has the money to afford a footbridge over to his parking lots," said Charlie Crosby, who is against the plan.

Robert Kraft would be responsible for maintaining the bridge.

Work on the footbridge is scheduled to begin in the spring.

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