WINDSOR, Ont. — The Detroit River International Crossing (DRIC) has a new ally in Michigan Governor Rick Snyder.

Snyder addressed the State of Michigan this week and said the DRIC project will be a key component of his economic renewal plan for the state.

“To satisfy growing demand, we must move forward towards building a bridge, a new bridge from Detroit to Windsor, The Detroit River International River Crossing,” Snyder said. “We will present a totally revamped and highly attractive economic development proposal including a recent agreement from Washington.”

Last year, DRIC looked to be near death when the state senate failed to introduce a funding bill. Snyder, however, wants to reintroduce DRIC legislation.

“This project isn’t just a Detroit issue. Every farmer and manufacturer in our state can tell you why it’s important to have world trade. This new bridge will create jobs, strengthen our economy, help establish Michigan as a hub for global commerce,” Snyder said. “So let’s work together so this opportunity does not slip away.”

The support was welcomed by the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA), a long-time proponent of the DRIC project.

“This is excellent news and I’m extremely pleased Governor Snyder has decided to make DRIC a priority for his administration,” said OTA president David Bradley. “The prospects of getting the DRIC plan approved in the next few months are considerably strong today than they were yesterday.”
That said, Bradley added Snyder’s support doesn’t mean it’s a done deal.

“There is still a lot of work to be done to get this through the House and Senate and OTA will continue to do everything in our power to help get DRIC through the Michigan Legislative process,” Bradley said. “But having the governor’s strong leadership hopefully will carry the day. While we’re taking nothing for granted, we’re very optimistic about the future of DRIC.”