Peace Bridge Statement by Congressman Brian Higgins

Statement

Peace Bridge Statement By Congressman Brian Higgins

"In 2005 a public panel recommended a cable stayed, Menn designed bridge as their first choice for a new crossing to be constructed beside the existing Peace Bridge. We recently learned that federal agencies may push to drop this design based on weak arguments related to the environmental impact of the design. In late February I objected to the Federal Highway Administration's claims in general terms. Today I submit further evidence which renders their allegations unfounded.

Well over 1000 cable stayed bridges currently exist around the world today without any devastating impact on the avian and fish population. Furthermore, a Hong Kong study examining bird collisions found that only 0.02% of bird deaths could be blamed on impact with a tall structure, including buildings, bridges and towers. Finally, mitigating factors, such as lighting, can be incorporated into the design of the bridge to further lessen the likelihood of bird mortality.

For well over a decade this community has fought for a more efficient and predictable crossing between Canada and the US. We cannot allow federal bureaucrats to come in at the eleventh hour and delay a project this region has worked so hard for. Using the data already available we can quickly conclude the Menn designed bridge is an acceptable choice which respects the work of the jury, the natural environment and the urgent need to move forward on this project."

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