LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer got behind the wheel of a Michigan-built Ford Mustang to celebrate the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, marking a historic new connection between Michigan and Canada. Her administration, partnering with Canada, was responsible for the successful completion of the bridge project following decades of hurdles. Her drive marks the official opening of the bridge to traffic between Canada and the United States. The bridge will strengthen the flow of people, goods, and commerce across what is already the largest trade crossing in North America.
Governor Whitmer fought tirelessly through delays, political interference, and COVID-19 pauses to keep construction moving, ensuring the project remained on target. The bridge remains a great deal for the State of Michigan, which will experience tremendous economic benefits from today’s opening. Today’s opening cements the bridge as a key part of Governor Whitmer’s legacy.
“I ran for governor to build bridges between communities and make Michiganders’ lives better,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m proud to celebrate the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which will do just that. Built by skilled workers on both sides of the Detroit River, this bridge is an engineering marvel. It’s also a symbol of the partnership that has defined Michigan and Canada for generations and what we can accomplish when we work together. I’m proud we got the job done during my administration on behalf of so many Michiganders who fought for this bridge and for Michigan, Canada, and our future. Let’s keep doing big things together.”
“This bridge is a physical link between the state of Michigan and our most vital trading partner,” said Michigan Department of Transportation Director Bradley C. Wieferich. “I cannot overstate the significance for the businesses and citizens on both sides of the border who rely on the timely movement of goods as well as for members of the MDOT team who have been working for decades to build relationships in Detroit neighborhoods and respond to residents’ concerns as this historic bridge becomes a reality.”
The Governor has advocated for all needed support to open the bridge across three presidential administrations, including with U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of the Interior, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as well as the White House. She has also worked hand in hand with federal congressional offices to ensure necessary U.S. government-related bridge operations are fully funded and staffed.
