56 °f
Detroit
EL CENTRAL Hispanic News
  • Home
  • About
    • Introducing the partnership with the Race and Justice reporting Initiative
    • Resources
  • Español
    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    James Craig, un ex jefe de policía de Detroit, anuncia su campaña para alcalde a los reporteros de Executive Cuts & More. Foto: Annalise Frank/Axios

    Un punto clave: Entrevista con James Craig

    Preparing for the Cinco de Mayo Parade in 2025

    Tips to prepare for tax season and a potential tax refund  

    Photo of Cesar Chavez Academy’s High School Robotics team, the AzTech Eagles, after their successful performance at the FIRST State Robotics Competition. Photo taken by the AzTech Eagles robotics team.

    Southwest Detroit Robotics Teams Earn Recognition at District, State and World Competitions

    Bolivia

    Bolivia

    Barbaro Garbay at the Tigers’ 1984 World Champions Reunion in 2024 Photo courtesy of the Detroit Tigers

    Spanish Public Radio to Broadcast All 81 Tiger Home Games

  • Community
    Carmen Elena Luna, project manager for Bird Flu Outreach at Strangers No Longer, explains the importance of educating dairy workers in rural Michigan

    “Strangers No Longer” Gathers Amid Increasing Threats to Immigrants and Refugees

    Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

    Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

    Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

    Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

    EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

    A painted puzzle piece artwork is displayed as Ballet Folclórico of Wayne State University dancers perform at Roosevelt Park during the ‘Pieces of Detroit’ event in Detroit, Michigan, on April 27, 2025. The installation and performances celebrated the cultural and historical ties across Southwest Detroit.

    Southwest Detroit Youth Group Pieces Together Mexicantown and Corktown

    Por equivocación entró al puente que conduce a Canadá

    Por equivocación entró al puente que conduce a Canadá

    MDOT Reveals Final Designs for Michigan Ave. from Downtown to Corktown

    MDOT Reveals Final Designs for Michigan Ave. from Downtown to Corktown

    Members of Ballet Folklórico of Wayne State University rehearse calabaceados, a high-energy dance style originating from Baja California, at the Student Center in Detroit, Michigan, on April 16, 2025. The group is preparing for their “¡Viva el Norte!” presentation, which will feature traditional dances from northern Mexico

    Viva El Norte! WSU Ballet Folklorico Celebrates Northern Mexico

  • Featured
    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    El Arzobispo Edward J. Weisenburger dirige las oraciones durante una Misa en memoria del papa Francisco el 21 de abril en la Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament en Detroit. El papa Francisco, quien ha liderado la Iglesia católica desde 2013, murió la madrugada del lunes, el día después del Domingo de Pascua. (Foto de Valaurian Waller | Detroit Catholic)

    Archbishop Weisenburger leads Detroit faithful in mourning Pope Francis’ death

    Photo of Cesar Chavez Academy’s High School Robotics team, the AzTech Eagles, after their successful performance at the FIRST State Robotics Competition. Photo taken by the AzTech Eagles robotics team.

    Southwest Detroit Robotics Teams Earn Recognition at District, State and World Competitions

    Attendees of Youth In Action for Immigration’s conference gather together for a group photo. Photo by Ixel Garcia and Evelyn Garcia

    Immigration Conference Inspires Catholic High School Students to Take Action

    Co-writer and lead actor Alex Ruiz anticipates production of the film Love & Detroit during a recent Investor's Pitch. El co-guionista y actor principal Alex Ruiz anticipa la producción de la pelicula Love & Detroit durante un reciente Investor's Pitch

    Filmmakers Return Home to Challenge Hollywood’s Lens

    La Basilica of Ste. Anne, un emblemático templo de 139 añosserá completamente restaurada gracias a una alianza transformadora con The Catholic Initiative. The 139-year-old Basilica of Ste. Anne will undergo a $30 million “complete rehabilitation” thanks to a “transforma- tive partnership” with The Catholic Initiative. (Foto de / Photo by James Silvestri | Special to Detroit Catholic)

    ‘Innovative partnership’ will secure future of Ste. Anne, preserve basilica for generations

    Archbishop-designate Edward J. Weinsenburger stands before St. Augustine Cathedral in Tucson, Arizona.

    Detroit’s new archbishop a caring leader who listens, coworkers and friends say

    Daniel Mata, 18, left, waves a Mexican flag Tuesday, March 4 during a protest at Clark Park. Mata is a junior at Covenant High School Southwest. Photo by Dustin Blitchok/Planet Detroit

    Hundreds Gather in Mass Protest Against Heightened ICE Presence in Detroit

    Southwest Detroiters Unite to Support Neighbors

    Southwest Detroiters Unite to Support Neighbors

  • Opinion
  • Culture & Arts
    • All
    • World Cultures
    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    Members of Ballet Folklórico of Wayne State University rehearse calabaceados, a high-energy dance style originating from Baja California, at the Student Center in Detroit, Michigan, on April 16, 2025. The group is preparing for their “¡Viva el Norte!” presentation, which will feature traditional dances from northern Mexico

    Viva El Norte! WSU Ballet Folklorico Celebrates Northern Mexico

    ina Tse during the Commemorative Quilt Project at Neighborhood Art School in Detroit, Michigan, on April 19, 2025. Held ahead of Detroit Fashion Revolution Week, the event honors garment workers lost in the 2013 Rana Plaza collapse in Bangladesh

    Detroit’s Fashion Revolution Week Embraces Circularity, Community, and Cultural Roots

    Yaidimar Narvaez left, and Kathleen Dickinson

    Accomplished Young Southwest Detroit Artist Featured in Multiple Exhibitions

    Brazil

    Brazil

    Bolivia

    Bolivia

    Ecuador

    Ecuador

    La Raza Collective U of M Artist Talk-2025 by Ozzie Rivera

    La Raza Collective U of M Artist Talk-2025 by Ozzie Rivera

    • World Cultures
  • Latest Issue
  • Past Issues
    • Throwbacks
  • Events
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • en English
    • en English
    • es Spanish
No Result
View All Result
EL CENTRAL Hispanic News
  • Home
  • About
    • Introducing the partnership with the Race and Justice reporting Initiative
    • Resources
  • Español
    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    James Craig, un ex jefe de policía de Detroit, anuncia su campaña para alcalde a los reporteros de Executive Cuts & More. Foto: Annalise Frank/Axios

    Un punto clave: Entrevista con James Craig

    Preparing for the Cinco de Mayo Parade in 2025

    Tips to prepare for tax season and a potential tax refund  

    Photo of Cesar Chavez Academy’s High School Robotics team, the AzTech Eagles, after their successful performance at the FIRST State Robotics Competition. Photo taken by the AzTech Eagles robotics team.

    Southwest Detroit Robotics Teams Earn Recognition at District, State and World Competitions

    Bolivia

    Bolivia

    Barbaro Garbay at the Tigers’ 1984 World Champions Reunion in 2024 Photo courtesy of the Detroit Tigers

    Spanish Public Radio to Broadcast All 81 Tiger Home Games

  • Community
    Carmen Elena Luna, project manager for Bird Flu Outreach at Strangers No Longer, explains the importance of educating dairy workers in rural Michigan

    “Strangers No Longer” Gathers Amid Increasing Threats to Immigrants and Refugees

    Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

    Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

    Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

    Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

    EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

    A painted puzzle piece artwork is displayed as Ballet Folclórico of Wayne State University dancers perform at Roosevelt Park during the ‘Pieces of Detroit’ event in Detroit, Michigan, on April 27, 2025. The installation and performances celebrated the cultural and historical ties across Southwest Detroit.

    Southwest Detroit Youth Group Pieces Together Mexicantown and Corktown

    Por equivocación entró al puente que conduce a Canadá

    Por equivocación entró al puente que conduce a Canadá

    MDOT Reveals Final Designs for Michigan Ave. from Downtown to Corktown

    MDOT Reveals Final Designs for Michigan Ave. from Downtown to Corktown

    Members of Ballet Folklórico of Wayne State University rehearse calabaceados, a high-energy dance style originating from Baja California, at the Student Center in Detroit, Michigan, on April 16, 2025. The group is preparing for their “¡Viva el Norte!” presentation, which will feature traditional dances from northern Mexico

    Viva El Norte! WSU Ballet Folklorico Celebrates Northern Mexico

  • Featured
    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

    El Arzobispo Edward J. Weisenburger dirige las oraciones durante una Misa en memoria del papa Francisco el 21 de abril en la Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament en Detroit. El papa Francisco, quien ha liderado la Iglesia católica desde 2013, murió la madrugada del lunes, el día después del Domingo de Pascua. (Foto de Valaurian Waller | Detroit Catholic)

    Archbishop Weisenburger leads Detroit faithful in mourning Pope Francis’ death

    Photo of Cesar Chavez Academy’s High School Robotics team, the AzTech Eagles, after their successful performance at the FIRST State Robotics Competition. Photo taken by the AzTech Eagles robotics team.

    Southwest Detroit Robotics Teams Earn Recognition at District, State and World Competitions

    Attendees of Youth In Action for Immigration’s conference gather together for a group photo. Photo by Ixel Garcia and Evelyn Garcia

    Immigration Conference Inspires Catholic High School Students to Take Action

    Co-writer and lead actor Alex Ruiz anticipates production of the film Love & Detroit during a recent Investor's Pitch. El co-guionista y actor principal Alex Ruiz anticipa la producción de la pelicula Love & Detroit durante un reciente Investor's Pitch

    Filmmakers Return Home to Challenge Hollywood’s Lens

    La Basilica of Ste. Anne, un emblemático templo de 139 añosserá completamente restaurada gracias a una alianza transformadora con The Catholic Initiative. The 139-year-old Basilica of Ste. Anne will undergo a $30 million “complete rehabilitation” thanks to a “transforma- tive partnership” with The Catholic Initiative. (Foto de / Photo by James Silvestri | Special to Detroit Catholic)

    ‘Innovative partnership’ will secure future of Ste. Anne, preserve basilica for generations

    Archbishop-designate Edward J. Weinsenburger stands before St. Augustine Cathedral in Tucson, Arizona.

    Detroit’s new archbishop a caring leader who listens, coworkers and friends say

    Daniel Mata, 18, left, waves a Mexican flag Tuesday, March 4 during a protest at Clark Park. Mata is a junior at Covenant High School Southwest. Photo by Dustin Blitchok/Planet Detroit

    Hundreds Gather in Mass Protest Against Heightened ICE Presence in Detroit

    Southwest Detroiters Unite to Support Neighbors

    Southwest Detroiters Unite to Support Neighbors

  • Opinion
  • Culture & Arts
    • All
    • World Cultures
    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of the National Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Charity of Cobre

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Vatican City

    Members of Ballet Folklórico of Wayne State University rehearse calabaceados, a high-energy dance style originating from Baja California, at the Student Center in Detroit, Michigan, on April 16, 2025. The group is preparing for their “¡Viva el Norte!” presentation, which will feature traditional dances from northern Mexico

    Viva El Norte! WSU Ballet Folklorico Celebrates Northern Mexico

    ina Tse during the Commemorative Quilt Project at Neighborhood Art School in Detroit, Michigan, on April 19, 2025. Held ahead of Detroit Fashion Revolution Week, the event honors garment workers lost in the 2013 Rana Plaza collapse in Bangladesh

    Detroit’s Fashion Revolution Week Embraces Circularity, Community, and Cultural Roots

    Yaidimar Narvaez left, and Kathleen Dickinson

    Accomplished Young Southwest Detroit Artist Featured in Multiple Exhibitions

    Brazil

    Brazil

    Bolivia

    Bolivia

    Ecuador

    Ecuador

    La Raza Collective U of M Artist Talk-2025 by Ozzie Rivera

    La Raza Collective U of M Artist Talk-2025 by Ozzie Rivera

    • World Cultures
  • Latest Issue
  • Past Issues
    • Throwbacks
  • Events
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • en English
    • en English
    • es Spanish
No Result
View All Result
EL CENTRAL Hispanic News
No Result
View All Result

Michigan May Allow New Hazardous Materials on the Ambassador Bridge

Mayor Duggan supports the plan while advocates worry the bridge is unsafe for flammable substances

EL CENTRAL by EL CENTRAL
January 11, 2024
in Community, Español
Reading Time: 13 mins read
Home Community
ShareShareTweetEmail to a friend
  • Brian Allnutt, Reprinted from Planet Detroit
  • January 11, 2024
Español Abajo

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and more than 30 state and local elected officials support a proposal to allow new classes of hazardous materials on the privately owned Ambassador Bridge connecting Detroit with Windsor, Ontario. The officials submitted letters to the Michigan Department of Transportation supporting the move over the last seven months.

The Detroit International Bridge Company argues that allowing class 3 and class 8 hazardous materials will decrease the distance these materials need to travel, reducing the risk of a spill. Following the closure of the Detroit-Windsor Truck Ferry in September, trucks carrying these materials have had to use the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron, roughly 60 miles from Detroit. Products like radioactive materials, flammable gasses, and explosives would continue to be prohibited at the company’s request.

Class 3 materials include flammable and combustible liquids such as paint, and Class 8 includes corrosives like lead acid batteries and degreasers.

However, some lawmakers and community advocates opposing the move say that the 93-year-old bridge lacks the safety infrastructure of newer bridges, posing a risk to the densely populated neighborhoods on both the U.S. and Canadian sides. The Gordie Howe Bridge, around two miles from the Ambassador Bridge, will allow for the safe movement of these materials when it opens in 2025.

Sam Butler, president of the Hubbard Richard Neighborhood Association, expressed concern that the aging bridge and customs plaza may be unprepared to handle these materials.

“We just don’t think it is a very good idea to transport more hazardous materials, including flammable liquids and corrosive materials, 20 feet from occupied homes,” Butler told Planet Detroit.

Duggan spokesperson John Roach told Planet Detroit that allowing trucks to use the Ambassador Bridge significantly reduces the number of miles of transportation of hazardous materials on roads in the city.

Steve Tobocman, a former Democratic Floor Leader in the Michigan House who represented Southwest Detroit, said an accident could have dire consequences.

“Should an accident happen on the bridge, there’s not the emergency response ability to limit the damage in the way it would be…on a normal interstate or surface street,” he said. An estimated quarter of all trade between the U.S. and Canada uses the bridge, according to Statistics Canada.

Among the 30 elected officials who wrote to the Michigan Department of Transportation in support of the move were Detroit City Councilmember Mary Waters, state representatives Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit), Helena Scott (D-Detroit), Karen Whitsett (D-Detroit), Nate Shannon (D-Sterling Heights), Joseph Aragona (R-Clinton Township), Jaime Greene (R-Richmond), and Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington.

Although eleven residents submitted letters in favor of the proposal in December, more than 400 signed a petition opposing it in 2020. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer used a line-item veto to defeat that provision.

An aging bridge and busy neighborhoods

State Senators Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit) and Erika Geiss (D-Taylor) said in a letter to MDOT that hazardous materials pose a special danger in a neighborhood with significant pollution where the bridge company will be expanding its toll plaza.

“Three schools and two public parks lie within the vicinity of the Bridge and Plaza, and the bridge opening lies in a densely populated neighborhood, where 40 percent of the residents are children,” they wrote. “Risking the safety of the seniors, families and children in these places in an environmental justice community would be negligent.”

A November report released by MDOT said the increase in risk from lifting the Class 3 and Class 8 restrictions was small but that “the difference is not significant enough to make a compelling case for or against any changes.”

The study also identified potential problems with fighting fires on the bridge, including a fire suppression system running parallel to the roadway that could be damaged by a vehicle crash. The report noted that fires involving class 3 substances like gasoline would likely require aqueous foam from local fire stations to be put out and that congestion could delay fire response.

A letter to MDOT from GLELC and signed by U.S. Rep Rashida Tlaib (D-Dearborn), Rep. Debbie Stabenow (D-Ann Arbor), Chang, State Sen. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton) and Detroit City Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero, said that the bridge company itself had made the case for the inadequacy of the current bridge.

While pursuing a permit to build a second span in 2009, owners told the U.S. Coast Guard that it was an “aging bridge” that was “near the end of its life span.” The company singled out issues like 11-foot-wide rather than standard 12-foot lanes and minimal safety shoulders that added to backups and congestion.

The GLELC letter also cited safety issues related to private ownership and the bridge company’s use of private engineering firms rather than government inspectors.

It’s previously been reported that Ambassador Bridge owners have not allowed government inspectors on the bridge and failed to show U.S. regulators the results of third-party inspections.

Other problems that have popped up over the years have included uninspected trucks parking underneath the bridge, which some labeled a security concern because of the possibility of an explosion. And in 2015, large chunks of concrete fell off the bridge in Windsor, forcing city officials to close several streets.

City officials say it’s safe

While Windsor officials have opposed allowing more hazardous materials on the bridge, Detroit officials have given the all-clear. A 2021 memorandum from Raymond Scott, deputy director of the city of Detroit’s Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department, expressed support for the plan, with neither the Detroit Police Department nor the Detroit Fire Department Fire Marshal Division seeing any significant issue.

A press release from the bridge company says allowing Class 3 substances like gasoline and diesel fuel to cross the bridge will, on its own, allow 4,200 hundred trucks to avoid the trip to Port Huron, eliminating 250,000 miles of travel and “providing a substantial net safety benefit to the State of Michigan.”

Randy Spader, vice president of operations for the Ambassador Bridge, told Planet Detroit that the bridge company will escort vehicles carrying Class 3 and Class 8 materials and that these vehicles “will be fully equipped with appropriate safety equipment including spill mitigation, fire response, and communication devices.”

Spader also pointed out upgrades the company has made over the last 15 years, which include replacement of the bridge deck and repairs to the concrete substructure.

MDOT spokesperson Jeff Cranson said that if the new classes of material are allowed, the decision could be open to review in the future.

“MDOT could likely request a change if new risks were identified by law enforcement agencies or others,” he said.

Yet, safety assurances from the city or bridge company are unlikely to allay Butler’s concerns.

“It would be very difficult for someone to convince me that more hazardous materials adjacent to a thriving residential community is a good idea,” he said.

Monica Monsma, public involvement specialist for MDOT, said the agency tentatively plans to hold a public hearing on the proposal in March. Residents can sign up for email updates from MDOT at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIDOT/subscriber/new.

The agency will also post information about a potential hearing 30 days in advance on MDOT’s hazardous materials routing webpage.

El Estado de Michigan podría permitir el paso de sustancias peligrosas en el puente Ambassador

El alcalde de Detroit, Mike Duggan, y más de 30 funcionarios estatales y locales apoyan una propuesta que permitiría nuevas clases de sustancias peligrosas en el puente Ambassador (de propiedad privada), que conecta Detroit con Windsor, Ontario. Los funcionarios enviaron cartas al Departamento de Transporte de Michigan durante los últimos siete meses, apoyando la medida.

The Detroit International Bridge Company sostiene que permitir materiales peligrosos de clase 3 y clase 8 disminuirá la distancia de transporte de los mismos, reduciendo el riesgo de derrame. Tras el cierre del ferry de camiones Detroit-Windsor en septiembre, los camiones que transportaban las sustancias han usado el puente Blue Water en Port Huron, aproximadamente a 60 millas de Detroit. Aunque materiales radiactivos, gases inflamables y explosivos seguirían prohibidos a petición de la empresa.

Los materiales de Clase 3 incluyen líquidos inflamables y combustibles como pintura, y la Clase 8; materiales corrosivos como baterías de ácido-plomo y desengrasantes.

Sin embargo, algunos legisladores y defensores de la comunidad que se oponen a la medida exponen que el puente de 93 años carece de la infraestructura de seguridad de los puentes más nuevos, lo que representa un riesgo para los vecindarios densamente poblados tanto del lado estadounidense como canadiense. El puente Gordie Howe, a unas dos millas del puente Ambassador, permitirá el movimiento seguro de estos materiales cuando se inaugure en 2025.

Sam Butler, presidente de la Asociación de Vecinos de Hubbard Richard, expresó su preocupación de que el viejo puente y la plaza de aduanas no estén preparados para manejar estos materiales.

“Simplemente no creemos que sea buena idea transportar más materiales peligrosos, incluidos líquidos inflamables y materiales corrosivos, a 20 pies de casas habitadas”, le comentó Butler a Planet Detroit.

El portavoz de Duggan, John Roach, expresó a Planet Detroit que permitir el uso del Puente Ambassador reduce significativamente la cantidad de millas de transporte de materiales peligrosos en las carreteras de la ciudad.

Steve Tobocman, exlíder demócrata de la Cámara de Representantes de Michigan que representó al suroeste de Detroit, expuso que un accidente podría tener consecuencias nefastas.

“Si ocurriera un accidente en el puente, no existe la capacidad de respuesta de emergencia para limitar el daño, como sucedería en una calle interestatal o de superficie normal”, dijo. Se estima que una cuarta parte de todo el comercio entre Estados Unidos y Canadá utiliza el puente, de acuerdo a Statistics Canada.

Entre los 30 funcionarios electos que escribieron al Departamento de Transporte como apoyo a la medida, se encontraban la concejal de la ciudad de Detroit, Mary Waters, los representantes estatales demócratas Tyrone Carter (Detroit), Helena Scott (Detroit), Karen Whitsett (Detroit), Nate Shannon (Sterling Heights), los republicanos Joseph Aragona (Clinton Township), Jaime Greene (Richmond) y el sheriff del condado de Wayne, Raphael Washington.

Aunque once residentes presentaron cartas a favor de la propuesta en diciembre, más de 400 firmaron una petición oponiéndose a ella en 2020. La gobernadora Gretchen Whitmer utilizó un veto de partidas individuales para derrotar esa disposición.

Un puente envejecido y barrios concurridos

Las senadoras estatales demócratas Stephanie Chang (Detroit) y Erika Geiss (Taylor) comunicaron en una carta al MDOT que las sustancias peligrosas representan una amenaza especial en un vecindario con una contaminación significativa donde la compañía del puente ampliará su plaza de peaje.

“Tres escuelas y dos parques públicos se encuentran en las cercanías del Puente y la Plaza, y la apertura del puente se encuentra en un vecindario densamente poblado, donde el 40 por ciento de los residentes son niños”, escribieron. “Arriesgar la seguridad de las personas mayores, las familias y los niños en estos lugares en una comunidad de justicia ambiental sería negligente”.

Un informe de noviembre publicado por el MDOT dijo que el aumento en el riesgo era pequeño, al levantar las restricciones de Clase 3 y Clase 8, pero que “la diferencia no es lo suficientemente significativa como para presentar un caso convincente a favor o en contra de cualquier cambio”.

El estudio también identificó problemas potenciales en la lucha contra incendios en el puente, incluido un sistema de extinción de incendios que corre paralelo a la carretera y que podría resultar dañado en un accidente automovilístico. El informe señaló que los incendios que involucran sustancias de clase 3, como la gasolina, probablemente requerirían espuma acuosa de las estaciones de bomberos locales para ser apagados y que la congestión podría retrasar la respuesta al incendio.

Una carta al MDOT de GLELC y firmada por las representantes estadounidenses demócratas Rashida Tlaib (Dearborn), Debbie Stabenow (Ann Arbor), la Senadora estatal Chang, Darrin Camilleri (Trenton) y la concejal de la ciudad de Detroit Gabriela Santiago-Romero afirmaron que la propia empresa del puente había defendido las carencias del puente actual.

Mientras solicitaban un permiso para construir un segundo tramo en 2009, los propietarios dijeron a la Guardia Costera de los EE. UU. que se trataba de un “puente viejo” que estaba “cerca del final de su vida útil”. La compañía destacó temas como la medida de 11 pies de ancho en lugar del estándar de 12 pies en los carriles y márgenes de seguridad mínimos que aumentan los atascos y la congestión.

La carta de GLELC también citó cuestiones de seguridad relacionadas con la propiedad privada y el uso por parte de la compañía del puente de empresas de ingeniería privadas en lugar de inspectores gubernamentales.

Anteriormente se informó que los propietarios del Puente Ambassador no permitieron que inspectores gubernamentales ingresaran al puente y no mostraron a los reguladores estadounidenses los resultados de las inspecciones de terceros.

Otros problemas que han surgido a lo largo de los años incluyen el estacionamiento de camiones no inspeccionados debajo del puente, lo que algunos calificaron como un problema de seguridad debido a la posibilidad de una explosión. Y en 2015, grandes trozos de hormigón se cayeron del puente en Windsor, lo que obligó a las autoridades de la ciudad a cerrar varias calles.

Los funcionarios de la ciudad dicen que es seguro

Si bien los funcionarios de Windsor se han opuesto a permitir más materiales peligrosos en el puente, los funcionarios de Detroit han dado el visto bueno. Un memorando de 2021 de Raymond Scott, subdirector del Departamento de Edificios, Ingeniería de Seguridad y Medio Ambiente de la ciudad de Detroit, expresó su apoyo al plan, y ni el Departamento de Policía de Detroit ni la División del Jefe de Bomberos del Departamento de Bomberos de Detroit vieron ningún problema significativo.

Un comunicado de prensa de la compañía del puente dice que permitir que sustancias Clase 3 como gasolina y diesel crucen el puente permitirá, por sí solo, que 4.200 camiones eviten el viaje a Port Huron, eliminando 250.000 millas de viaje y “proporcionando una red sustancial beneficio de seguridad para el estado de Michigan”.

Randy Spader, vicepresidente de operaciones del Puente Ambassador, dijo a Planet Detroit que la compañía del puente escoltará a los vehículos que transporten materiales Clase 3 y Clase 8 y que estos vehículos “estarán completamente equipados con el equipo de seguridad apropiado que incluye mitigación de derrames, respuesta a incendios y dispositivos de comunicación.”

Spader también destacó las mejoras que la compañía ha realizado en los últimos 15 años, que incluyen el reemplazo de la plataforma del puente y reparaciones a la subestructura de concreto.

El portavoz del MDOT, Jeff Cranson, expresó que, si se permiten esos materiales, la decisión podría estar abierta a revisión en el futuro.

“El MDOT probablemente podría solicitar un cambio si las agencias de seguridad o similares identificaran nuevos riesgos”, dijo.

Sin embargo, es poco probable que las garantías de seguridad de la ciudad o de la compañía del puente disipen las preocupaciones del presidente de la asociación vecinal.

“Sería muy difícil para alguien convencerme de que es una buena idea tener más materiales peligrosos junto a una próspera comunidad residencial”, afirmó.

Mónica Monsma, especialista en participación pública del MDOT, dijo que la agencia planea tentativamente celebrar una audiencia pública sobre la propuesta en marzo. Los residentes pueden registrarse para recibir actualizaciones por correo electrónico del MDOT desde este sitio https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIDOT/subscriber/new.

La agencia también publicará información sobre una posible audiencia con 30 días de anticipación en la página web de enrutamiento de materiales peligrosos del MDOT.

Traducción por Carmen Elena Luna

Tags: environment
Previous Post

Michigan Wolverines National Champions!

Next Post

Detroit Opera to present Compañía Nacional de Danza’s Carmen, one night only, Wednesday, January 17

EL CENTRAL

EL CENTRAL

Related Posts

Southwest Detroit’s Cinco de Mayo Parade Prevails Over “Rain and Rumors” to the Enjoyment of Thousands
Community

Southwest Detroit’s Cinco de Mayo Parade Prevails Over “Rain and Rumors” to the Enjoyment of Thousands

by EL CENTRAL
May 8, 2025
0

Thousands celebrated culture and pride at Detroit’s 60th Annual Mexican Independence Parade & Fiesta, with vibrant music, food, and community...

Read moreDetails
Juana Saavedra, business development manager at Alliance Catholic Credit Union, at left, met with former ACCU employee Brenda Villarruel to share their journeys as businesswomen and discuss their future goals
Business

Businesswomen and Entrepreneurs Share More than Contacts at Networking Event

by EL CENTRAL
May 8, 2025
0

Detroit’s female entrepreneurs gathered to connect, learn, and grow at a powerful bilingual networking event hosted by Business Alianzas and...

Read moreDetails
Porfirismo and Mexican monumental architecture
Español

Porfirismo and Mexican monumental architecture

by Mariana Ayón RV
May 8, 2025
0

Explore how Porfirio Díaz shaped Mexican nationalism through art and architecture, forging a modern identity and global image during the...

Read moreDetails
Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Couple Making a Difference in Detroit
Community

Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Couple Making a Difference in Detroit

by EL CENTRAL
May 8, 2025
0

A tragic crash took the lives of Kwasi and Elizabeth Agbottah, beloved Detroit mentors and parents of five. Discover their...

Read moreDetails
Detroit Cristo Rey Celebrates Continued 100% College Acceptance
Community

Detroit Cristo Rey Celebrates Continued 100% College Acceptance

by EL CENTRAL
May 8, 2025
0

Detroit Cristo Rey celebrated National College Decision Day at the DAC, where 100% of seniors announced college plans, including a...

Read moreDetails
Server Angelina Celestee delivers tacos and handmade sopes to diners at La Jali in Taylor, MI., on Monday, May 5, 2025
Community

La Jali Arrives: Bringing Mexicantown Heritage to Taylor

by EL CENTRAL
May 8, 2025
0

La Jali brings the beloved flavor of La Jalisciense to Taylor—enjoy handmade sopes, tacos, and a warm, festive vibe in...

Read moreDetails
Next Post
Detroit Opera to present Compañía Nacional de Danza’s Carmen, one night only, Wednesday, January 17

Detroit Opera to present Compañía Nacional de Danza’s Carmen, one night only, Wednesday, January 17

Leave Comment
  • Trending
  • Comments
  • Latest
Volunteers Needed for Refugee Resettlement in Michigan

Volunteers Needed for Refugee Resettlement in Michigan

February 14, 2024
Southwest Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

Why We Celebrate “CINCO DE MAYO, THE 5TH OF MAY”

May 2, 2024
MSHDA Opens $60 Million MI Neighborhood Applications

MSHDA Opens $60 Million MI Neighborhood Applications

April 4, 2024
Infamous Highwaymen Motorcycle Club Leader Pursues a Second Chance at Life

Infamous Highwaymen Motorcycle Club Leader Pursues a Second Chance at Life

February 1, 2024
Community and RuboFest 2022 

Community and RuboFest 2022 

0
“Vemos a México como un socio igualitario”

“Vemos a México como un socio igualitario”

0
Ford Hispanic and Latino Network Beautifies Clark Park

Ford Hispanic and Latino Network Beautifies Clark Park

0
Editorial Opinion “The Fifth, I take the Fifth”

Editorial Opinion “The Fifth, I take the Fifth”

0
Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

May 1, 2025
Remembering Diego Melendez: Singer & Percussionist – The Quiet One!

Remembering Diego Melendez: Singer & Percussionist – The Quiet One!

May 1, 2025
Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

May 1, 2025
EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

May 1, 2025

Recent News

Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

Aging in Fear: How I.C.E. Raids Impact the Mental Health of Latino Seniors

May 1, 2025
Remembering Diego Melendez: Singer & Percussionist – The Quiet One!

Remembering Diego Melendez: Singer & Percussionist – The Quiet One!

May 1, 2025
Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

May 1, 2025
EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

EL CENTRAL Welcomes New Face: Michael Gutierrez

May 1, 2025
EL CENTRAL Hispanic News

Michigans #1. Oldest. Largest & Only
Bilingual Hispanic News for 33 Years.

Follow Us

Browse by Category

  • Business
  • Classifieds
  • Community
  • Culture & Arts
  • Education
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Español
  • Events
  • Featured
  • Finance
  • Food
  • Latest News
  • Local News
  • Local Small Business
  • Music
  • National News
  • Opinion
  • Others
  • People
  • Politics
  • Resources
  • Restaurants
  • Sports
  • Throwbacks
  • World
  • World Cultures

Recent News

Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

Caesar Chavez Academy’s Robotics Team Represents Southwest Detroit at World Robotics Championship

May 1, 2025
Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

Detroit Welcomes New HQ for Innovative Tech Startup “ChurchSpace”

May 1, 2025
  • Latest Issue
  • About
  • Advertise
  • Contact
  • Menu Item
  • Created with EyeBreatheDesign

© 2022 EL CENTRAL HISPANIC NEWS

No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Catagories
    • Featured
    • Local News
    • Community
    • Culture & Arts
    • Español
    • Music
    • Sports
  • Events
  • Latest Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Contact
  • Advertise

© 2022 EL CENTRAL HISPANIC NEWS