The Gordie Howe International Bridge is critical to Michigan’s economic future. In 2024, the top destination for exports for the U.S. was Canada. For Michigan, Canada accounted for 38% of our exports. The Detroit-Windsor border crossing is the busiest commercial connection between our two countries, accounting for over 25% of total goods traded. Annually, there are over 2 million commercial truck crossings between Detroit and Windsor. What do all of these statistics mean? They translate into jobs that provide the livelihood for thousands and thousands of families on both sides of the Detroit River.
Congestion on the Ambassador Bridge is Costing You Extra Money
Currently, we rely on the Ambassador Bridge for much of this traffic. This bridge is approaching its 100th birthday in 2029. It only has four lanes and feeds into the streets of Windsor. It is known for long lines of trucks backed up on both sides of it. This congestion has been a major issue for decades. The shipping delays cost all of us money by delaying the efficient delivery of goods. For nearby residents, it is a cause of noise, pollution, and safety concerns.
Commercial Traffic Will Move Much Faster
The Gordie Howe International Bridge will have six lanes, along with direct freeway-to-freeway connections. A huge improvement. In addition, there will be new and enlarged customs facilities on both sides of the border. Commercial traffic will be able to move much faster, not only over the Bridge, but also in total transit times to their destinations. As consumers, this will save all of us money. In addition, nearby residents will have a much-improved experience due to reduced noise and pollution. The construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge also included a community improvement plan to help residents with their overall quality of life.
The New Bridge Was No Cost to Michiganders
One incredible aspect of this new bridge for Michiganders is that it came at no cost to us. We need to thank Canada for its great generosity in paying the entire cost of the Bridge. They will get repaid with interest from the tolls for crossing. Once they are repaid, Michigan and Canada will have equal ownership of any ongoing financial benefits from the Bridge.
Two Bridges Insulates Our Economy From Damaging Closures
Also, adding a second Bridge to the critical Detroit-Windsor crossing only makes good sense from a national security perspective for both countries. Having two crossings instead of just one provides an important level of redundancy in the event of a prolonged closure of either bridge.
It’s a Symbol of the Close Friendship Between Canada and the U.S.
In addition, I believe there is an important emotional connection that comes with the new Bridge. Canada is our neighbor and a close friend. The Gordie Howe International Bridge will stand as a representation of this critically important relationship for the next hundred years and beyond. In fact, I look forward to walking across the new Bridge, given that it comes with walking and bike lanes, seeing the incredible views down the Detroit River, and visiting friends in Windsor.
The Name Came From a Quick Call With Prime Minister Harper
Finally, you may wonder how it got the name Gordie Howe International Bridge. After vetting the idea with my Chief of Staff Dennis Muchmore, Prime Minister Stephen Harper called me and suggested, “If you don’t have a better idea, I thought Gordie Howe might be a good name.” I agreed right away. Howe, originally from Saskatchewan, played for the Red Wings and was one of the greatest hockey players of all time.
Rick Snyder served as the 48th governor of Michigan from 2011 to 2018.