Stabenow Applauds Announcement Advancing Detroit-Windsor Bridge Project

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today applauded the announcement of an International Authority to oversee construction of the Detroit-Windsor bridge project. The joint bilateral commission will be tasked with solving issues needed to be addressed prior to breaking ground on the New International Trade Crossing. The International Authority will also oversee construction and operation of the bridge in conjunction with the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, which will handle day to day decisions. Senator Stabenow has been a key voice in advancing construction of this project, having recently traveled to Ottawa to discuss the bridge and other issues with Canadian officials, including Transport Minister Lisa Raitt.

"The New International Trade Crossing is vital for creating jobs and growing our economy here in Michigan and across the country, and today's announcement brings us one step closer to getting this done," said Stabenow. "With all of the necessary permits already in place, we now have a strong, international authority that will make sure construction moves forward as soon as possible. I look forward to continuing to work with Rep. Gary Peters and others in our delegation, as well as our excellent partners in Canada, to secure the final funding necessary to break ground on this project without further delay."

Expected to be completed in 2020, the New International Trade Crossing would promote bilateral trade and commerce with Canada, significantly increase the flow of goods moving across the border, and create tens of thousands of jobs in Michigan alone.

The State of Michigan and the Canadian government signed a construction agreement to build the New International Trade Crossing in June 2012. The agreement required that a bilateral six-member commission be appointed to oversee project construction. It is anticipated the commission will act swiftly on the outstanding issues pertaining to land acquisition and funding for a Customs Plaza in Detroit.