The Ambassador Bridge says it's been given approval to build North America's longest cable stayed bridge next to the original crossing.
In a news release issued Wednesday afternoon, Matthew Moroun — with the Detroit International Bridge Co. — thanks the Canadian government for issuing a final permit supporting the bridge company's plan for a new privately funded span.
“We especially thank Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Canada for issuance of the final permit supporting our Company to make this major investment in international infrastructure," says Matthew Moroun. "There have been many challenges our company has faced over the years in pursuit of this moment. We are now tasked with the duty to construct a privately funded bridge with the hard work of thousands of engineers, steel workers, construction experts that will be employed to deliver this once in a lifetime project."
President of the Ambassador Bridge Company Dan Stamper says the permit gives approval for a new bridge and truck plaza which will be located directly west of the current bridge.
He says it's going to change the landscape for the better.
"I think a year from now things will look a lot better in west Windsor and I think people will have comfort that there is a new bridge coming to this corridor and the trade will be taken care of in an efficient, secure way and that's very exciting."
Stamper says they'll begin tearing down vacant homes on the Windsor side as soon as possible.
"We have a lot of property clearing to do on the Windsor side that's been held up while we were waiting for this permit. As soon as we get the property and utilities relocated we'll start construction. So the sooner we can start seeing a new bridge come out of the ground the better it's going to be for everybody in this region."
Stamper adds, conversations with the Canadian government were very pleasant.
"We got the official call today from Canada saying everything is done now and I had my team in the room and Canada had their team in the room and it was a very positive, happy conversation between the parties. The issue of a federal undertaking and approval of both countries now is confirmed."
Background issued with news release:
Meanwhile, Windsor West MP Brian Masse is reacting to the news.
He says he's shocked and surprised by Wednesday's announcement.
Masse tells AM800 News, he has reach out to the Prime Minister's office along with other federal ministries looking for information.
"What we have now is a faxed release from basically a billionaire from the United States telling us the fate of our community." says Masse.
Masse says he will continue to work the phones until he gets some answers.
In a news release issued late Wednesday afternoon, the federal government says the 87-year-old Ambassador Bridge needs to be replaced.
Transport Minister Marc Garneau says the span is important to the economic well-being of the region, particulary the autmotive industry and for daily commuter traffic.
"The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of ensuring the continued flow of trade and travellers between Windsor and Detroit, one of the most important Canada-United States border crossings," says Garneau. "The construction of the replacement Ambassador Bridge together with the Gordie Howe International Bridge project will ensure that Canadians continue to benefit from the efficient movement of people and goods at this crossing while providing infrastructure improvements for the local community."
In 2015, 2.5-million trucks carrying $120-billion in two-way trade crossed the Ambassador Bridge. It's also the second busiest passenger vehicle crossing with 4.2-million vehicle crossings.