Hazardous material restrictions eased on Ambassador Bridge [Video]

Restrictions on transporting certain hazardous materials across the Ambassador Bridge are being eased by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

Last fall, MDOT received a formal request from the Detroit International Bridge Company (DIBC) to allow the movement of Class 3 and 8 substances over the bridge.

Class 3 substances include flammable liquids such as paint, varnish, and fuel, while Class 8 substances are corrosive materials like detergents, pharmaceuticals, and batteries.

At the time, the DIBC argued truckers carrying these materials need a more efficient way to cross the Canada-U.S. land border, as they are currently required to divert to the Bluewater Bridge in Sarnia, where hazmat transport is allowed.

On August 30, MDOT announced it had approved the proposal, with the changes set to take effect on October 29.

Windsor West MP Brian Masse said he is “shocked and disappointed” but not surprised, given the bridge company has spent …