The Windsor Detroit Bridge Authority is reiterating its committment to start construction on the Gordie Howe International Bridge next year.
It says despite changes to the design requirements, the addition of a multi-use trail, and the agreement reached with the City of Detroit they intend to select a private-sector partner by 2018 and start construction in the same year.
There have been many concerns over the timeline of the project since the RFP was issued months behind schedule.
A statement from the WDBA President Michael Cautillo says they are committed to delivering the project within the specified time.
"We are in constant dialogue with the proponents to understand their needs as they complete their proposals. The timetable for our proponents to submit information is being reviewed, which is not unusual for a construction project of this scale. This will ensure that the procurement process will yield the best possible proposals without compromising our commitment to begin significant construction of the bridge in 2018," says Cautillo in a written statement.
Three consortium groups were shortlisted as the proponents to submit bids on the 4,000 page RFP document issued in November, 2016.
The WDBA says approximately $200 million of work has already been done at the site of the Canadian Port of Entry and over 70% of the property needed for the US Port of Entry is in the hands of the Michigan Department of Transportation.
It says this will allow the winning bidder to start construction of the bridge almost immediately.