DETROIT — A deal between the city and billionaire Manuel “Matty” Moroun that would improve a riverfront public park while aiding the Ambassador Bridge owner’s quest for a second span to Canada is moving forward. 

According to the Detroit Free Press, under terms of the new deal the city of Detroit will swap pieces of the riverside park with the Morouns in exchange for up to $5 million for public park improvements and new windows at the vacant Michigan Central Station train depot, which Moroun also owns. 

The deal will allow the Moroun family to build a second bridge over the Detroit River into Canada. 

Mayor Mike Duggan supports both the New International Trade Crossing— to be named the Gordie Howe International Bridge— planned between Detroit and Windsor and a second span adjacent to the Ambassador Bridge. 

Many Detroit residents are concerned about a second span or replacement span at the Ambassador Bridge location. Many have complained about truck traffic and think the city should have consulted more with residents before allowing the deal to move forward.