U.S., Canada pursuing joint border infrastructure plan

WASHINGTON, May 30 (UPI) -- The United States and Canada Thursday announced for the first time they are working together on a border infrastructure investment plant.

"An integrated, bilateral approach to border investment is critical to both the U.S. and Canadian economies," U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said in a release. "The border infrastructure investment plan offers enhanced security along our shared U.S.-Canadian border, while reducing wait times at major border crossings -- increasing the flow of traffic across the border while ensuring safe and secure trade and travel."

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said the unprecedented cross-border collaborative approach "will serve both of our countries well and ensures that we are working together on our common interests."

Canadian Transport, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Denis Lebel said modern border crossings "are essential to trade."

"Our government is investing in border crossings, ports and gateways to reduce wait times, increase trade and create jobs," he said.

The plan outlines the approach the two North American neighbors will take to coordinate plans for physical infrastructure upgrades at small and remote ports of entry

"Our government, in collaboration with the United States, is committed to enhancing our security and economic prosperity through significant investments at key crossings," Canadian Public Safety Minister Vic Toews said. "These investments will reduce border delays, speed up trade across our shared border and will allow the Canada Border Services Agency to focus on facilitating the flow of low risk people and goods while keeping the border open to legitimate trade and travel."