LANSING — Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit) has issued the following statement after the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority today announced they would commit to providing community benefits such as home repair, workforce training, street enhancements and more for the Delray and Southwest Detroit communities.
“I am thrilled about today’s announcement from the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority regarding community benefits in relation to the Gordie Howe International Bridge. This marks a critical milestone in a long journey for the Delray and Southwest Detroit communities. For more than a decade and a half, residents and community leaders have been advocating for quality of life protections and enhancements near the bridge; many have made significant sacrifices to make way for this development.
“I am excited that the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority has committed to home repair funding for Delray residents; support for community organizations in Delray and Southwest Detroit serving children, families and small business owners; workforce training and readiness; a grant program for community initiatives; local street enhancements; improvements to parks and connectivity; and much more. These build on the already-delivered programs that are providing families options for renovated homes, long-term health and air studies, and investment in jobs training. I look forward to continuing the work with all stakeholders involved to ensure these community benefits initiatives are implemented successfully.
“Today’s announcement is an important testament to the tenacity and perseverance of residents in my district, as well as the strong relationship we have developed over the years with the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority and the State of Michigan. It is also a refreshing reminder that strong community benefits processes work, when the needs of the community are taken seriously; when residents’ experiences, perspectives, and research are listened to with sincerity; and, when the community and decision makers work together in a spirit of transparency, collaboration and partnership.”
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