By Laura Weber, Michigan Public Radio Network
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-905190.mp3
LANSING, MI – The debate over building a new bridge between Detroit and Canada continues at the state Capitol. The state Senate Transportation Committee has taken up the Democratic proposal.
Many lawmakers are worried about who would foot the bill for a new bridge.
Republican state Senator Judd Gilbert says he's not sure traffic would increase to generate enough toll revenue to pay for the bridge.
"Are you convinced that that doesn't make the taxpayers kind of the back-up, if the tolls don't pay for the project?" Gilbert asked.
Democratic state Representative Lee Gonzales supports building the bridge.
"There is nothing in life that is 100 percent risk free," Gonzales says.
But Gonzales says the bridge would be a huge economic boost for Michigan, and would help solidify a trade relationship with Canada. The Canadian government has said it would fund the project, but Republicans in Lansing are not completely sold on that idea.