Are You in Favor of a Harsens Island Bridge?

Nearby Harsens Island, a scenic retreat at the mouth of the St. Clair River, is making waves after news broke the longtime ferry may close.

While there's been controversy for years over potential bridge construction, support the  project may be gaining momentum in light of Champions Auto Service owner David Bryson's retirement notification to the Michigan Public Service Commission, according to the Detroit Free Press.

Ambassador Bridge owner Manuel (Matty) Moroun's Detroit International Bridge Co. told the newspaper it was ready to revive plans to build a bridge across the North Channel.

Harsens Island resident Kathy Brady, who regularly frequents the New Baltimore and Chesterfield area, told Patch she hopes the ferry service stays open.

"Harsens Island has its own feel for being kind of Mayberry-ish, kind of Andy Griffith living," said Brady, adding that she believes a bridge would bring more commercialism and crime. 

She said she, like many other residents, utilizes airboats if the ferry is stuck in the frozen channel, leaves her car parked on the mainland and often plans ahead for the winter months.

"We have a slower-paced relaxful way of life," she said of living on the island.

Take our poll and tell us what you think about a possible bridge in the comments' section below.