THUNDER BAY – Prime Minister Stephen Harper has announced the conclusion of an agreement between Canada and the State of Michigan toward building a new publicly owned bridge crossing between Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan.
The Governor of Michigan, Rick Snyder states he has negotiated pact that benefits Michigan, protects taxpayers and lays the groundwork for the New International Trade Crossing, a move that positions Michigan to thrive in the global economy while protecting the state from shouldering the project’s costs.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper states “Our Government is taking the measures necessary to facilitate trade and investment between Canada and the United States in order to generate jobs, economic growth and long term prosperity. This new bridge will reduce congestion at this critical Canada-U.S. border crossing, support the creation of new export related jobs and investment opportunities along the Quebec City–Windsor Corridor, increase the competitiveness of the North American manufacturing sector, and provide thousands of construction jobs in Ontario and Michigan”.
Governor Snyder states, “This agreement is about more than building a bridge, It’s about building a future of economic strength and security for families across our entire state. The NITC will help Michigan farmers, entrepreneurs and manufacturers get their goods to market faster, as well as develop new customer bases. It also prepares southeastern Michigan to become a global transportation hub when coupled with the region’s other assets. Equally important, this agreement is a great illustration of the power of partnerships. This collaborative achievement by the state, our Canadian friends, the U.S. government, Michigan’s congressional delegation and the broad coalition of supporters shows the world that we’re moving forward with innovation, vision and relentless positive action. Today represents a major step in Michigan’s reinvention”.
The cost of the bridge is estimated to be at least $1 billion dollars.