Canadian Transport Minister and Michigan Governor meet to discuss the Detroit River International Crossing (DRIC) / New International Trade Crossing (NITC) project

LANSING, MI, Nov. 12, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Minister of Transport and Michigan Governor Rick Snyder met in Lansing, Michigan to discuss the progress and the next steps towards the building of the Detroit River International Crossing (DRIC) / New International Trade Crossing (NITC) project.

Both the Minister and the Governor reiterated their strong commitment to move the new publicly-owned crossing forward as soon as possible.

Since the issuance of the presidential permit in April 2013, Canada and Michigan have undertaken further design, planning, and due diligence work.  Geotechnical and foundation engineering as well as the property acquisition process are continuing on both sides of the border.  Several environmental mitigation measures including the installation of snake fencing, the relocation of species at risk plants and breeding birds and vegetative surveys have already been completed in Canada.  On the U.S. side, the partners are completing titles searches for properties needed for the U.S. port of entry.  The State has also obtained the requisite Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) permit and has completed its application for the Coast Guard navigational permit.  As well, both Canada and Michigan continue to meet with border agencies to advance the design of the new inspection plazas.

"International projects of this magnitude and complexity require a great deal of planning and due diligence work on both sides of the border," said Minister Raitt. "The new Windsor-Detroit crossing will facilitate cross-border trade, provide thousands of much needed jobs, will help ensure continued economic growth, and is one of the top infrastructure priorities for Canada."

"The NITC will be a testament to our enduring ability to achieve great things," said Governor Snyder. "Since the issuance of the presidential permit, Canada and Michigan have continued to strengthen both their partnership and working relationship to ensure that their shared vision of a vibrant future is fully and timely realized. This project strengthens Michigan's position to excel in the global economy and we're committed to moving it forward aggressively."

The new Detroit River crossing will help existing businesses as well as foster new business opportunities on both sides of the border. The project also demonstrates how the Governments of the United States and Canada are working together to enhance our security and accelerate the legitimate flow of people, goods and services between our two countries. 

SOURCE: Transport Canada

Ashley Kelahear
Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700

Ken Silfven
Michigan Governor's Office
517-335-6397
[email protected]

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

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