Canada-based construction and infrastructure company Aecon Group has received approval to rejoin Bridging North America, the group selected to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the Gordie Howe International Bridge.

The approval of Aecon’s request to participate in the public-private partnership follows a review by Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA), the Canadian Crown corporation responsible for the project.

Aecon will become a member of the Bridging North America consortium and work with ACS Infrastructure Canada, Dragados Canada and Fluor Canada.

Financial close is expected by the end of September.

Aecon withdrew from the project in May, as the group was undergoing a federal review about a proposed takeover by a Chinese state-owned company.

“Aecon looks forward to working with its partners and WDBA to achieve financial close and ultimately deliver this vital infrastructure project.”

The federal government had reportedly taken out Aecon from the bridge project due to security concerns following the plan to sell Aecon to Chinese interests and opposition from the US administration, reported Financial Post.

Aecon Group chief executive officer John M Beck said: “This is an important project for Canada and the United States. The Gordie Howe International Bridge project fits well into Aecon’s existing portfolio of projects.

“Given Aecon’s current resources, extensive involvement in the development of the proposal prior to its withdrawal and review of the final proposal, Aecon is pleased to be a part of the team to deliver this critical infrastructure project for the benefit of all stakeholders. Aecon looks forward to working with its partners and WDBA to achieve financial close and ultimately deliver this vital infrastructure project.”

The plan for the Gordie Howe International Bridge includes a six-lane, 2.5km cable-stayed design.

The cost, design details, and expected construction schedule are due to be announced once the contract has been awarded in September.

Upon completion, the Gordie Howe International Bridge will serve as the longest cable-stay bridge in North America.