MCDC advocates public ownership of new border crossing

The Ambassador Bridge is one of the world’s busiest international crossings. It carries $90 billion in trade across the Detroit River each year. It’s the only privately owned international passageway in North America, and truck fares are double that of any other border crossing. In its present state, the increased traffic on the bridge forces trucks to wait an average of four hours to cross, spreading diesel exhaust throughout our neighborhood.

MCDC was involved in discussions this past year regarding the feasibility of another Detroit area border crossing that would come through Southwest Detroit. At that time, several proposals were examined, including one by Central Transportation, Inc., which owns the Ambassador Bridge.

Our organization acknowledges the need to create another border crossing in order to alleviate the traffic bottlenecks. We’re working, however, to ensure that this addition will not harm the growth and vitality of our community. MCDC board member and State Representative Steve Tobocman believes public ownership of the crossing is the best way to balance the public interest and economic growth. Our organization supports this view. We will continue to monitor this important issue in order to be a responsible advocate for our thriving community.