Officials with the Windsor Police Service say they continue to have open communication with the organizers of the demonstration blocking the Ambassador Bridge.
As of 6 p.m. Tuesday, northbound traffic on Huron Church Road began moving again, with U.S.-bound traffic on the bridge also moving. Although traffic was moving slowly, police continue to advise people to avoid the area or find an alternate route.
"We understand the concerns of our citizens and we share those concerns. We want to reassure the public that we continue to actively engage with and monitor these demonstrations. We will maintain the peace and public/ traffic safety," said Windsor Police Chief Pam Mizuno.
Police warn those involved that anyone who engages in illegal activity will be charged accordingly. They urge individuals not to endanger members of the public or first responders.
"Those found committing crimes and acts of violence will be investigated and charges will be laid. This includes enforcement of traffic-related offences and investigating any criminal acts. This also includes police personnel considering waiting for a lower-risk opportunity to arrest offenders rather than inflame a situation," said Sergeant Andy Drouillard in a media release.
Matt Moroun, chairman of the Ambassador Bridge Company, called for the protestors to allow traffic to fully resume.
"The Ambassador Bridge and the Moroun family sympathize with truck drivers and those caught up in this blockade," said Moroun in a statement Tuesday night. "We recognize that truck drivers are essential workers that work hard to deliver necessities to all of us and that the Canadian government has done a tremendous job with vaccine rates. The Ambassador Bridge has a solemn obligation to facilitate safe and efficient international trade and travel."
Commercial vehicles are being redirected to the Blue Water Bridge in Sarnia. The Windsor-Detroit Tunnel remains open to non-commercial vehicles.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens called a special in-camera meeting of the Windsor Police Services Board for Tuesday night to discuss the blockade of the bridge.
