U.S. Coast Guard Issues Bridge Permit For Ambassador Bridge Enhancement Project

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The U.S. Coast Guard has completed its review and evaluation for the Detroit International Bridge Company’s application for the Ambassador Bridge Enhancement Project, and have issued the permit.

The Coast Guard says that after completing an environmental assessment in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, they determined the project would not have a significant impact on the environment. The Coast Guard also determined the navigational clearances of the proposed twin span would meet the reasonable needs of the current and foreseeable future navigation.

The Detroit City Council approved an agreement with DIBC in July 2015 that will allow DIBC to pursue the necessary rights to construct the bridge over Riverside Park and appropriate substitution parklands. The Coast Guard views the land swap agreement as sufficient evidence of “necessary primary authority” to allow the Coast Guard to make a permit decision. The agreement, as it currently stands, does not provide DIBC with legal title to the park property because it must be approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. National Park Service. While a Coast Guard bridge permit can be issued, construction of the bridge cannot commence until such approvals are received.

Approval of the bridge by the Canadian government is still required before they can begin construction.