Crews begin clearing land in southwest Detroit for new bridge to Canada

DETROIT, MI -- Crews began clearing land to make way for a new bridge to Canada on Wednesday, according to the governor's office.

Officials hope to see the New International Trade Crossing from Detroit to Windsor built by 2020, and the demolition of three abandoned structures on South Post Street, South Crawford Street and Reid Street in southwest Detroit are planned this week in a step toward construction that the governor said "underscores the ongoing progress being made on this vital project."

Canada plans to cover most of the cost of building the $2.1 billion bridge. Toll money from the U.S. side would then go toward repayment.

"The NITC will energize the turnaround of Detroit and our entire state," Snyder said in a statement.

"It means jobs for families, modern infrastructure that attracts investment, and greater security for Michigan and America. The clearing of land is the latest phase of this exciting project, which is right on track and moving forward."

More demolition is expected in the coming months.

The project has been in the works for years, overcoming political hurdles and opposition from the owner of the Ambassador Bridge.

But U.S. State Department approval of was granted last year and the final Coast Guard permit came this year, followed by establishment of international committees to oversee the development.

A remaining obstacle is federal funding for a $250 million customs plaza on the U.S. side.

Snyder has called the lack of action on the funding from Washington "offensive" to Canada.

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Crews begin clearing land in southwest Detroit for new bridge to Canada