Heavy Duty Trucking Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Michigan Governor Says New Windsor Detroit Bridge Key to Economic Development

In his State of the State address, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder made it clear that building a new bridge between Windsor and Detroit, as recommended by the Detroit River International Crossing (DRIC) process, will be a key component of his economic renewal plan for Michigan

by Staff
January 21, 2011
2 min to read


In his State of the State address, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder made it clear that building a new bridge between Windsor and Detroit, as recommended by the Detroit River International Crossing (DRIC) process, will be a key component of his economic renewal plan for Michigan.


Snyder explained that as global demand for Michigan's ports of entry increases, it is essential for trade and job growth that Michigan's crossings be improved; the realization of the DRIC project is a key part of this plan.

"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," proclaimed Snyder. "We will present a totally revamped and highly attractive economic development proposal including a recent agreement from Washington."

Last year, a bill approving DRIC was not introduced or voted out of the state senate transportation committee before the Michigan legislative session adjourned. With Governor Snyder's support, the DRIC legislation will be reintroduced and examined by the new lawmakers in office.

"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," continued Snyder. "So let's work together so this opportunity does not slip away."

The project will be funded through a public-private partnership in which the Canadian government's pledge of $550 million towards Michigan's share of the cost will play a key part. Last week, Snyder reached an agreement with the Federal Highway Administration to use the $550 million investment towards the matching funds required for all federally funded highway projects.

Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) President David Bradley, a strong supporter of the DRIC proposal, welcomed the Governor's remarks, saying "This is excellent news and I'm extremely pleased Governor Snyder has decided to make DRIC a priority for his administration. The prospects of getting the DRIC plan approved in the next few months are considerably strong today than they were yesterday."

However, Bradley went on to caution that while the Governor's support of DRIC certainly boosts the project's outlook, it does not guarantee its success in the legislature. "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."

More Drivers

Artist rendering of dealership with trucks and trailers parked outside
Equipmentby News/Media ReleaseJune 2, 2026

Prime Inc. to Open $7.9M Flagship Used-Truck Dealership

A new driver-focused facility to sell Prime Inc's used trucks and trailers will be the first purpose-built location in the company's history.

Read More →
Thumbnail for podcast episode
Safety & ComplianceMay 28, 2026

Short Takes: Inside K&B’s Truck Safety Tech

Listen to learn how K&B Transportation uses cellphone-blocking technology, speed management systems, weather geofencing, bridge avoidance tools, and more to improve driver safety.

Read More →
Nussbaum driver pay.
Driversby News/Media ReleaseMay 27, 2026

Nussbaum Expands Driver Compensation with Pay Raises, Profit Sharing

Nussbaum Transportation said its latest compensation package could push first-year driver earnings above $90,000 in key hiring markets.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Lance Evans, Director of Safety at K&B Transportation.
Safety & ComplianceMay 13, 2026

Listen: Inside Modern Fleet Safety: AI, Cameras & Speed Control at K&B Transportation

Fleet safety is evolving fast—and technology is at the center of it. Learn how a former commercial vehicle enforcement officer turned director of safety at K&B Transportation is embracing real-world safety technology.

Read More →
Maverick Transportation Freightliner Cascadia.
Driversby News/Media ReleaseMay 12, 2026

Maverick Announces 2026 Driver Pay Raises

New raises for Maverick Transportation drivers will take effect on May 31, 2026.

Read More →
Alleged Ohio toll evasion truck.
Driversby News/Media ReleaseMay 5, 2026

Illinois Trucker Indicted for Nearly $22,000 in Ohio Turnpike Toll Evasion

Authorities say an Illinois trucker avoided paying tolls for two years, and now faces felony charges, possible prison time, and forfeiture of his Freightliner tractor.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Illustration with trojan horse and lock with inside of cargo container in background
Fleet Managementby News/Media ReleaseApril 23, 2026

New Trojan Driver Cargo Theft Scam Bypasses Carrier Vetting Systems

Cargo theft rings plant operatives as drivers inside legitimate, fully vetted carriers, then execute coordinated thefts that look like a traditional straight theft from the outside.

Read More →
Female truck driver.
Driversby News/Media ReleaseApril 21, 2026

WIM, Trucker Path Name Top 3 Women-Friendly Truck Stops

ATA’s Women In Motion Council and Trucker Path highlight three truck stops that meet all seven safety-focused criteria and rank highest among female drivers.

Read More →
Illustration of driver medical exam paperwork over duotone background of a blood pressure check

FMCSA Extends Paper Medical Card Exemption … Again

Five states still aren't ready to accept commercial driver medical exam information directly from the medical examiner's registry.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Mack Pioneer tractor.
Driversby Jack RobertsApril 10, 2026

Mack Launches Digital Driver Guide for Chassis-Specific Truck Info

Mack’s new, virtual owner’s manual delivers VIN-based, on-demand guidance for vehicle systems via web, app, and soon in-cab displays.

Read More →