Why the Peace Bridge Is Not a Transportation Project

Abstract

The Peace Bridge was constructed in 1927 connecting Buffalo New York with Fort Erie Ontario. It is the second busiest border crossing between Canada and the United States carrying about six million vehicles annually. For the last 20 years there has been ongoing community debate about the need for a new bridge. In 2001 an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was started for a new Bridge and U.S. plaza. That EIS was terminated in early 2012. The presentation covers the reasons for the termination of the EIS and the steps that are now being taken to improve the functionality of the border crossing. The impact of Customs procedures and operations in both Canada and the United States will be discussed.

Bio

Mr. Rienas is the General Manager of the Peace Bridge Authority and oversees operations of the Finance, Human Resources, Operations, and Toll/Traffic Departments. Prior to holding this position, he was the Facilities Manager of the Peace Bridge Authority beginning in 2000. He previously spent 12 years as the Director of Planning & Property Safety with the Town of Fort Erie where he oversaw the planning and building departments. He holds an honors bachelor’s degree in urban and regional planning with an environmental studies major and management studies minor.

Attendees will earn 1 PDH Credit.

Schedule

11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Registration
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch and Presentation

Menu

Lunch buffet salad, chicken cutlets, Italian sausage, peppers & onions, mashed potatoes & gravy, vegetable medley, cannoli, coffee & tea.

Cost

Members - $25
Non-members - $30
Students - $15

Payment Methods

Online: Credit Card (Preferred)
At Door: Cash, Check, Credit Card