Television viewers could get a lesson in bridge construction if they watch an upcoming episode on WSIU that features the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge.

The half-hour program will air at 9 tonight on Channel 8, a PBS affiliate in Carbondale, Ill. A program on the NOVA Superbridge will air at 7 p.m.

Scott Meyer, district engineer with the Missouri Department of Transportation, bridge designer Steve Hague and Cape Girardeau Mayor Al Spradling III will discuss the bridge construction and its impact on the region.

The documentary will detail the bridge's design and history and videos of major construction milestones up to this point. Meyer will discuss the jet grouting process and why it was a necessary delay in construction.

The bridge is expected to be complete by 2003.