Loosened HAZMAT restrictions require city to step up [Video]

The busiest international crossing in North America is about to get busier — and it’s put the City of Windsor in a position to prepare for potential worst-case scenarios.

On Oct. 29, loosened restrictions will see more fuels and materials for batteries cross from the U.S. into Canada following an extensive review from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) despite the objection of Windsor officials.

“Some of these things are hazardous, they’re corrosive, they’re flammable,” said Marta Leardi-Anderson, the executive director of the Cross Border Institute. “I think the onus is on the City of Windsor to coordinate those emergency responses. Is it challenging? Sure, it is.”

The decision from American officials to allow more hazardous materials (HAZMAT) to cross has led to a messaging tug-of-war of sorts with local officials pointing the finger at the capital, calling on Ottawa to act, while the federal body responsible for HAZMAT regulations indicates its hands are tied.

City council has sent off two letters to federal ministers …