Green Corridor Plans to Continue by Ambassador Bridge Despite Council Ruling

Despite the decision by City Council Monday evening to delay the demolition of six houses that the Ambassador Bridge owns on the east side of Indian Road, the company has pledged to continue with its plans to work with the Green Corridor to improve the landscape and lifestyle of the Windsor community.

"The City Council made a bad decision last evening," said Dan Stamper, president of the Ambassador Bridge. "While they stated their concern for the potential archeological significance of the area, they failed to recognize the benefits that the green buffer area would provide for the neighbourhood and surrounding area."

Throughout the construction, the Bridge has employed a licensed archaeologist under the direction of Dr. Robert J. Pearce of The Ontario Museum of Archaeology as a consultant on the archaeological significance of the area. Dr. Norm Becker, local engineer and heritage specialist, also testified last evening that the six houses had no heritage or architectural importance to the community.

Despite approving demolition of four similar houses on the east side of Indian Road just two years ago, Council denied the Bridge's request for demolition. However, two councilors did have the wisdom and courage to support improving the local community and the green buffer area by voting in favour.

The Bridge had hoped to use the space for landscaping adjacent to the new customs booths under construction just west of the current Bridge. The company is working with the University of Windsor and the Green Corridor on a master plan to landscape the Huron Church Road area to improve Windsor's environment.

"Our goal is to improve the international crossing that is viewed by the 9.4 million cars and trucks each year that use the Ambassador Bridge. Regrettably council's decision will delay the development of the green buffer area adjacent to the newly expanded customs plaza," added Stamper. "We will continue to work with the Green Corridor, the University of Windsor and other community partners that are interested in improving the area."