Ontario Road Builders' Association Applauds Announcement to Build Windsor-Detroit Bridge

New International Trade Crossing prime example of transportation infrastructure driving economic growth 

MISSISSAUGA, ON, June 15, 2012 /CNW/ - The Ontario Road Builders' Association welcomes the Government of Canada's announcement and partnership with Michigan to build a second bridge in the Windsor-Detroit transportation corridor - the 'New International Trade Crossing (NITC)'.

"This new bridge is a prime example of how transportation infrastructure provides well paying construction jobs to a region; spurs the economy with construction activity; and will also be a driver of economic growth for many years to come," said Geoff Wilkinson Executive Director of ORBA. "The construction of the bridge, along with the Windsor-Essex Parkway, ensures that Canada and Ontario are building the infrastructure system and lifelines needed to grow the province's economy and compete in the 21st century."

ORBA has long been a strong advocate for a second bridge span between Windsor and Detroit, and worked with a coalition that presented its case to the Michigan Legislature two years ago. ORBA promoted the importance of building the bridge as it relates to the strength and growth of both Michigan's and Ontario's economy, and trade relationship.  "ORBA is pleased to see the dedication and commitment by both the federal and provincial government to transportation infrastructure upgrades in the Windsor region.  Estimated construction activity in the region could reach at least $4 billion which, in turn, will spur investment in all segments of Ontario's economy, including those that supply products and services to our transportation infrastructure contractors," stated Wilkinson.

The construction of the new bridge is expected to create thousands of new jobs in the region, as well as hundreds of jobs to operate the bridge. At the same time, the bridge will help alleviate congestion in the traffic corridors of the region, and ensure fast, reliable, and efficient transportation of goods and people across the Canada/US border.

The Ontario Road Builders' Association is the voice of transportation infrastructure contractors who build and maintain Ontario's vast network of roads, bridges, transit etc. In addition, ORBA boasts approximately 100 associate members who supply products and equipment to the industry. To learn more about ORBA go to www.orba.org

Karen Renkema
Director, Government Relations
Ontario Road Builders' Association
416-768-4848 (mobile)
[e-mail]