The following is a 10 December 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, today celebrated the completion of the Peace Bridge Plaza improvements with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly constructed laneway.

“The Peace Bridge is the third-busiest Canada-U.S. commercial truck crossing and a key component for international trade with the United States,” said Minister Nicholson. “These improvements will enhance the efficiency and security of this important trade corridor, while contributing to Canada’s long-term economic prosperity.”

“This project is an excellent example of how a partnership can expedite improvements at the border,” said Mr. Schoetz. “As an operator that sees border congestion every day, we appreciate the Government of Canada’s understanding of the importance of this international crossing.”

This project included 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.

Canada’s Economic Action Plan contributed $1 million, through the Gateways and Border Crossings Fund, representing 50 per cent of the total eligible costs. The Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority contributed the remaining $1 million.

The Government of Canada is taking important steps to support economic growth. Canada’s Economic Action Plan provides for almost $12 billion in new infrastructure stimulus funding over two years. We are also accelerating the $33-billion Building Canada Plan, which will help address needs in communities across Canada and contribute to long-term economic growth through investments in public infrastructure such as roads, water treatment plants, green energy and transit.