Harper announces $1-billion bridge linking Windsor, Ont., and Detroit

WINDSOR, Ont. – Prime Minister Stephen Harper has formally announced construction of a new bridge linking Windsor, Ont., and Detroit.

The $1-billion link over the Detroit River will help alleviate congestion at Canada’s busiest border crossing.

Canada is financing the construction, and will recover Michigan’s share of the cost through state tolls.

The new span will be a few kilometres south of the existing Ambassador Bridge.

The two governments, auto makers and other industries have argued for years for another crossing to end truck gridlock and provide an alternative if the existing bridge is shut down.

Harper was joined for the announcement, ahead of a formal signing ceremony later Friday in Detroit, by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder.

“Our government is taking the measures necessary to facilitate trade and investment between Canada and the United States,” Harper said.

“This new bridge will reduce congestion at this critical Canada-U.S. crossing.”