Federal Highway Administrator in Detroit for Opening of $258 Million Gateway Project

Topics:  Victor Mendez

Federal Highway Administration
21 September 2012

FHWA 41-12
Friday, September 21, 2012
Contact: Doug Hecox
Tel: 202-366-0660

Project Expected to Ease Congestion, Improve Safety and Enhance Livability Near Ambassador Bridge

DETROIT - Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez today participated in the official opening of the Gateway Project, a series of freeway ramps designed to relieve severe traffic congestion to and from the nearby Ambassador Bridge. He joined Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and other state and local officials at the event in Detroit.

"The Gateway Project is the kind of project President Obama was talking about when he said we need to invest in an America that is built to last," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "These much needed improvements will reduce congestion and improve commerce and livability for Detroit-area residents well into the future."

Work on the $258 million project, which was made possible through an investment of$202 million in federal funding, began in 2007. In addition to improving traffic flow on streets throughout southwestern Detroit, it will offer better access to an international welcome center and pedestrian bridge.

"By eliminating a major traffic chokepoint around this neighborhood, we are improving the quality of life for people in this community," said Administrator Mendez. "This project created good jobs for workers and is the latest chapter in Detroit's ongoing renaissance."

The new access and outlet ramps between I-75, I-96 and the Ambassador Bridge, the most heavily traveled international border crossing between the U.S. and Canada, are expected to remove an estimated 10,000 vehicles from local side streets.