The United States Department of Homeland Security and the
Transport Canada Minister confirmed this week that an agreement has been
reached, moving one step closer to allowing the New International Trade
Crossing (NITC) project to move forward.
The latest deal on the $2.1 billion project for the new
bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, is for the customs plaza.
Reportedly, Canada will provide financing for most of the customs plaza in
exchange for toll revenue. The United States has agreed to provide staffing for
the plaza, an estimated $100 million in the first year and $50 million each
year thereafter.
Much work still remains before all aspects of the project
are finalized, including the construction of a freeway-to-freeway connection to
the span. Additionally, NITC still faces court challenges from Ambassador
Bridge owner Manuel “Matty” Moroun.