The Gordie Howe International Bridge project is moving forward with the recent announcement of the companies that will build and operate the massive structure between the United States and Canada by way of Detroit.
Last week, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) announced that following a rigorous evaluation process, Bridging North America has been selected as the Preferred Proponent to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the Gordie Howe International Bridge project.
Bridging North America’s design will see the Gordie Howe project as a cable-stayed bridge. The six-lane, 2.5 kilometres/1.5 miles Gordie Howe International Bridge will be characterized by having an “A” shape. The Gordie Howe International Bridge will have the longest main span of any cable-stayed bridge in North America at 853 meters.
Over the coming months, WDBA will negotiate final contract details with Bridging North America. The cost of the project, design details and expected construction schedule will be announced publicly following financial close, which is expected by the end of September, signaling the contract has been awarded and signed.
The new Gordie Howe International Bridge will provide for redundancy at the busiest trade corridor between Canada and the United States with improved border processing and highway-to-highway international connectivity. It also addresses future needs and will provide six lanes to meet anticipated growth in traffic over the years to come.
“This is an exciting time for WDBA and for communities on both sides of the border. The selection of Bridging North America as the Preferred Proponent is another step forward towards the start of construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge – the largest infrastructure project along the Canada-US border and one which will stimulate the economies in Canada and the United States.” Dwight Duncan, Chair, WDBA Board of Directors, said in a statement.
