The Ambassador Bridge is a trade corridor of national significance. It is the single busiest border crossing between Canada and the United States, handling approximately $400 million in trade every day.
Last year, it accounted for over a quarter of Canada’s exports and a third of imports by land. The Ambassador Bridge is a particular vital of the automotive sector, with thousands of jobs relying on it remaining open.
In February this year, the illegal blockade of the bridge had a devastating effect on Canadians – causing layoffs, forcing plant closures and endangering our international reputation. Its closure posed severe risks to public safety, damaged Canada’s economy and risked our reputation as a reliable trading partner. Managing and clearing the blockade resulted in significant costs for the City of Windsor.
On Thursday the Federal Government announced financial help of up to $6.9 million in funding in 2022-2023 earmarked for Windsor. These funds will help the City pay for the costs of addressing the blockade and restoring public safety at the bridge and the areas surrounding it.
The announcement was made by Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Marco Mendicino who underscored the importance of keeping the bridge open and operating.
“When the illegal blockades at the Ambassador Bridge put jobs at risk, forced businesses to shut down and jeopardized Canada’s most significant trade corridor, the federal government was there to support the City of Windsor. Now, we’re here once again to help with the recovery and make sure Windsor is stronger than ever.”
Photo by Jason Carswell from Projex.Wiki