LANSING, Mich. — In what’s being viewed as a positive sign for the future of a new international bridge between Canada and the U.S., Michigan Gov.-elect Rick Snyder announced last month his decision to retain the current director of the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Snyder later clarified that retaining current MDOT chief Kirk Steudle does not mean he endorses the so-called DRIC bridge proposed for construction between Windsor and Detroit, but it certainly can’t hurt the bridge’s chances with a strong DRIC supporter like Steudle remaining in that position.

Marketing Resource Group President Tom Shields, a spokesman for the bridge project, told the Detroit News that he’s aware Snyder has yet to make a decision on DRIC, but he is encouraged Steudle is staying on.

A resolution to approve DRIC died in the waning hours of the 2010 "lame duck" Senate session.

Despite likely facing stiff opposition in the Senate again this year, DRIC proponents are holding out hope a new bill will be brought forth and passed at some point in 2011.