This browser does not support the Video element.
Wednesday will mark one week since the statue of Robert E. Lee in Dallas was set to be lifted off its base and put into storage. But after a series of delays, the City of Dallas is still not revealing any timeline for the monument's removal.
Dallas police continue to guard the monument 24/7 and the area in Lee Park is still surrounded by barricades.
City Manager T.C. Broadnax didn’t respond to questions about the removal process, including whether it was put out for a bid, which is typical for city projects. The city also is not revealing if it is any closer to finding another crane after the one it planned to use was involved in a deadly traffic accident on Sunday.
Originally the city manager asked for $400,000 for the removal, but he admitted Monday the cost now will likely be more than that. Some visitors to the statue on Tuesday questioned the cost and the council's decision-making procedure.
"We have 300 people leaving because of their pension but oh my God, we had money to move a statue,” said Elaine Holloway.
There are plans for a large “Save the Monument” rally at Lee Park this weekend that could bring a turnout between 300 and 500 people. The organizer, This Is Texas Freedom Force, estimates as many as 100 of them will be armed.
The Dallas Police Department says they are aware of the rally and they will be on scene to secure the event, but will not interfere with any lawful gathering.