News Release
For Immediate Release
Minister Raitt highlights benefits of new Gordie Howe International Bridge
June 25, 2015 Windsor, Ontario Transport Canada
WINDSOR, ONTARIO – The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, today addressed participants at the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation’s information session, “Bridging our Local Opportunity”. The event attracted local businesses and organizations who are interested in learning about the potential opportunities in supplying goods and services for the construction and eventual operation of the new Gordie Howe International Bridge.
In her remarks, the Minister stressed the importance of Canada-U.S. bilateral trade to Canada’s economic well-being and how the new bridge will help strengthen trade between the two countries and how Windsor-Essex, as the host community for the new bridge, will benefit both during the construction and the operation of the new crossing.
The Minister also spoke about the government’s commitment to a robust transportation system and quality public infrastructure to ensure that Canada is well-positioned to compete in the global economy. The Minister highlighted projects and initiatives that support Canada’s transportation systems, including the Gateways and Borders Crossings Fund, and the New Building Canada Plan.
Quick Facts
- The $2.1-billion Gateways and Border Crossings Fund has provided funding to over 40 projects across the country, including Canada’s contribution to the construction of the Rt. Hon. Herb Gray Parkway linking Highway 401 to the new Gordie Howe International Bridge.
- The 10-year $53-billion New Building Canada Plan is the country’s largest- and longest-ever infrastructure plan.
- The Gordie Howe International Bridge is scheduled to open in 2020 and will include a six-lane bridge, border inspection facilities in both countries and a new interchange connecting to Interstate-75 in Michigan.
Quote
"The new Gordie Howe International Bridge is of vital importance to the economic prosperity of the local communities. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority is committed to working with regional businesses in helping them prepare for opportunities related to the construction of the new bridge and inspection plazas.”
The Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport
Associated Links
Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority
WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation
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Contacts
Zach Segal
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700
Mark Butler
Transport Canada, Windsor
519-946-4859
