The Buffalo & Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority is preparing to launch an international bridge design competition for a new crossing of the Niagara River between the US and Canada. Designers from around the world will be invited to take part in the competition to design the 620m structure. Expressions of interest will be solicited early in 2005 and a shortlist will be announced in March or April. Those shortlisted will each receive a stipend to take part in the competition.