US, Canada reach deal for funding plaza for $2.1B bridge from Detroit to Windsor, Ontario

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says the Obama administration and Canada have agreed with Canada for financing a key piece of a planned $2.1 billion bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor, Ontario.

The department said Wednesday the agreement involves funding for a toll plaza on the U.S. side of the international crossing.

Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow released a statement saying the agreement "is a critical step forward" for the project, long stymied by opposition from owners of the nearby Ambassador Bridge who seek to add a span of their own across the Detroit River.

Earlier talks involved the Canadian government paying for a $250 million customs plaza for the New International Trade Crossing. Homeland Security now says a "public-private partnership" will pay for the plaza's construction, with reimbursement from tolls.