Gordie Howe Bridge: How did we get here?

The building of the Gordie Howe Bridge has been many years in the making. Two countries connected by a common goal. A second span would be a bridge to a brighter future for both sides. But it wasn't easy getting there. I think it should be something really that symbolizes both cities. You know, I can't think of a more iconic figure on both sides of the river, Gordie Howe. At noon today, we will learn the new name of that bridge. A powerful moment for then-Governor Rick Snyder, making the announcement back in 2015. Alongside Canada's Prime Minister, Stephen Harper. The bridge had a location as well as a name. What an inspiring name. Because Gordie Howe does represent, as the Prime Minister said, great things for both the country of Canada and the state of Michigan. He's a legend in both places. Born in Canada, but starring in Michigan, Gordie Howe was a metaphorical bridge connecting the two countries. Now, a literal bridge would bear his name. And it will only strengthen the ties and bonds between these wonderful countries. A new border crossing that was needed to improve the flow of trade between the two countries. Hundreds of billions of dollars in goods is moved across the border between Michigan and Ontario every year. But we already have a bridge in Detroit. The Ambassador Bridge opened in 1929. So why are two bridges better than one? At this point, we have a monopoly situation where the Ambassador Bridge right now is basically the only way that trucks are able to cross the river. And as a result of that, the Ambassador Bridge is basically able to charge whatever they want. And they do. Basic economics. More competition means lower prices. The prices are so high that many trucks actually drive all the way up to Port Huron to take the Blue Water Bridge. It's the busiest land crossing for trade between Michigan and Canada. Our most important trading partner. Finally, in 2018, it was time to break ground. Today, we begin full construction on the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Named after a Canadian legend and an honorary son of Detroit. The rendering showing a glistening, modern-looking span that would shine across the Detroit River. Not everyone was on board. People living south of 75 had to be relocated. People living north of it, between Clark and Springwells, had to deal with the noise. My bed isn't upstairs and it would shake. The Gordie Howe Bridge is going to have great benefit for the region. But this particular neighborhood is going to have a great deal more truck noise with the new exit ramps. Under the deal, Canada would pay for construction. More than $6 billion. But they'd keep the tolls until that debt was repaid. That could take up to 50 years. Michigan and Canada are co-owners. It's an example of what we can achieve when our two great countries work together. Lawsuits, a trade war, and a pandemic delaying the completion. A dream from more than a decade ago finally coming true. And now the ribbon finally cut. More than a bridge today. We are here to celebrate this opening of big opportunities for workers, big opportunities for businesses. Gordie Howe died in 2016. But dozens of members of his family were there to mark this special occasion. The people that are here are happy. I'm happy. Our family's happy. I'm sure Gordie's happy. And the bridge is set to open to vehicle traffic on Monday at noon. Pedestrians may begin crossing on August 5th.