Question Period Note: Gordie Howe International Bridge: Project Status

What is the status of the Gordie Howe International Bridge Project?

• The Gordie Howe International Bridge Project is advancing and construction is well underway with bridge towers on both sides of the border now visible and standing at over 120 metres high.

• Now in the fourth of its six-year construction phase, this signature infrastructure project in Windsor-Detroit has employed over 4,900 workers, including support for over 180 local businesses.

• Canada is working hand-in-hand with the State of Michigan and US and Canadian partners to advance this multi-year mega project to deliver a new international crossing supporting long term jobs, important supply chains and trade that drives economic growth.

RESPONSIVE:
* Construction has continued through the pandemic and project partners are working towards a scheduled completion of the bridge and new modern ports of entry by the end of 2024.

• The Gordie Howe International Bridge Project will provide modern facilities and a direct highway-to-highway connection between Highway 401 in Ontario and Interstate 75 in Michigan, facilitating the flow of people and goods at the busiest Canada - U.S. border crossing.

• The Bridge will be jointly owned by Canada and Michigan, and delivered by Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, a non-agent Crown corporation, through a $5.7 billion, fixed-priced, public-private partnership with Bridging North America. Canada is funding the full amount with costs to be recouped from toll revenues.

• The project is in its fourth year of a six-year construction period (2018-2024) and construction is well underway for all project components. Once completed the Bridge towers will stand at 220 metres/722 feet. Construction of the buildings on both Ports of Entry are advancing with foundation work and steel building frames underway. Work is also progressing on the Interstate 75 interchange in Michigan with ramp construction continuing and construction well advanced on three bridges over the I-75.

• Construction activities are advancing in accordance with government health directives. Bridging North America has implemented comprehensive COVID-19 safety protocols and procedures that include the guidance provided by public health professionals.

• Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Potential schedule impacts due to COVID-19 are currently being assessed, but it will be several months before impacts are fully known including how the pandemic has affected supply chains for construction materials and related costs. While there are pressures to be managed, the project is on time and on budget, and solutions to potential delays are being explored with the private partner consortium.

• The Project is providing significant benefits to local communities through its comprehensive Community Benefits Plan which includes a workforce development component with employment, training, educational opportunities, and an infrastructure component that will make aesthetic and functional improvements to local communities. The Community Benefits plan also includes opportunities to celebrate the region’s history, including the history of the Black community.

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