STATE CAPITOL
48909-7514 | JOOHN CHIRKUN | |||
MI | PHONE FAX; | (517) | 373 0854 |
MI
January 22, 2020
The Honorable Gretchen Whitmer
Governor, State ofMichigan
PO Box 30013
Lansing, MI 48909
Dear Governor Whitmer,
We understand that the state is reviewing a decision by the Snyder administration regarding the routing of certain materials, primarily gasoline. in Wayne County. It is also our understanding that a technical repon issued by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) in 2012 recommended that these materials be allowed transport across the Ambassador Bridge (as is currently allowed at the two other international bridges in Michigan) with two safety considerations:
l. Escort vehicles are utilized.
2. Vehicles crossing the Ambassador Bridge may be subject to additional restrictions by the state and/or local government including, but not limited to, restricting the time of day allowed for
crossing.
It has come to our attention that there has never been a life-threatening incident in the 58 years that these materials have been allowed transport over the l-Bridge and Blue Water Bridge and that these materials are currently travelling between Canada and Detroit through our communities in Macomb County. This will add unnecessary risk to residents along these routes. In addition, given the fact that MDOT plans to allow these materials to be transported over the planned Gordie Howe Bridge, we believe it is in the best interest of our state to implement MDOT’s 2012 recommended changes with regards to the Ambassador Bridge.
Thank you for your consideration. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,