The Gordie Howe International Bridge will have a positive impact on the region’s economic success both during the construction and operations phases of the project.

Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) is working with regional educational institutions, businesses and community groups, to help realize the regional economic and community development opportunities stemming from the project.

Read more about how organizations on both sides of the border are exploring creative ways to leverage the Gordie Howe International Bridge project for the economic benefit of the region.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge project presents a once-in-a lifetime opportunity. Not only does it inject direct and indirect economic impacts for the Canada and the US, but there is also an opportunity to chart a new course that can support the economic future of Windsor-Essex and Detroit. By looking forward and exploring new avenues, the region will be able to derive maximum economic benefit from this investment and can reap benefits for many years to come.

WDBA’s CEO has joined with other futurists in the region to form an Economic Development Committee. The committee is exploring creative ways to leverage the Gordie Howe International Bridge project for the economic benefit of the region. The vision of the committee is to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation within the region while encouraging business investment across key sectors.

On February 24, 2021, the Committee hosted a virtual forum with Windsor-based leaders to act as a stimulus for thinking and discussion on identifying creative ways to use the Gordie Howe International Bridge to grow regional innovation and talent and attract business to the Windsor/Essex region. View the presentations from the session below.

Please note that these presentations are available in English only.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge and the Bi-National Great Lakes Economic Region:
Assessing Economic Impacts and Opportunities

In 2016, the Cross-Border Institute (CBI) at the University of Windsor, in partnership with Michigan State University, commenced  an economic impact and opportunities study of the Gordie Howe International Bridge project. The study was funded by WDBA. The purpose of the study was twofold: to identify and quantify major categories of economic benefits arising from the construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge project, and, to identify specific opportunities for economic development, created by the improved transportation service provided by the new bridge.

For further information on the report, please contact the Cross Border Institute at crossborder [at] uwindsor.ca.

Please note that this report is available in English only.