Work Begins On Peace Bridge Plaza Improvements

The following is excerpted from the 1 April 2010 news release by Transport Canada.

The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and Mr. Ken Schoetz, chairman of the board of the Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority, participated in a groundbreaking ceremony … to mark the start of construction on the Peace Bridge Commercial Lane Traffic Improvements project.

“As the third-busiest Canada-U.S. commercial truck crossing, the Peace Bridge is essential to trade with the United States,” said Minister Nicholson….

“…Transportation infrastructure, particularly international bridges, is key to enhancing and maximizing the binational trade and tourism relationship between Canada and the United States,” said Mr. Schoetz. “These improvements will help expedite commercial crossings into Canada, thereby reducing congestion and traffic queues, and allowing the Peace Bridge to function more efficiently.”

This project includes the construction of a fifth primary inspection lane and booth for Canada-bound commercial vehicles and a designated Vehicle and Cargo Inspection System (VACIS) area. Construction at the Peace Bridge is scheduled to be complete in summer 2010.

The Government of Canada’s contribution of up to $1 million, through the Gateways and Border Crossings Fund, represents 50 per cent of the total eligible costs. The Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority will contribute the remaining $1 million….