Canada approves Ambassador Bridge enhancement project

The Government of Canada has conditionally approved the Canadian Transit Company’s application for the Ambassador Bridge Enhancement Project covering the Detroit River between Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan.  

Under Canada’s International Bridges and Tunnels Act, the project is subject to conditions such as the dismantling of the existing bridge once the replacement opens, and improving local infrastructure. 

Other conditions include creating new public green spaces, and protecting the environment, in addition to considering domestic interests. 

Ensuring the safety and security of the crossing, the conditions are also expected to mitigate impacts of the project on the local community. 

As part of the project works, the existing Ambassador Bridge will be replaced with a new six-lane bridge, and the facility of the Canada Border Services Agency associated Ambassador Bridge will also be enhanced. 

Ambassador Bridge is an 87-year-old bridge and connects Windsor and Detroit enabling traffic movement between two regions. 

The Windsor-Detroit gateway is considered as one of the busiest commercial land border crossings between Canada and the US. 

Canada Minister of Transport Marc Garneau said: “The Government of Canada recognises 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. 

“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 addition to the Ambassador Bridge Enhancement Project, the government is planning to accelerate the Gordie Howe International Bridge project.