Official Statement from Ryan Donally, President & CEO, Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce
Today’s announcement on Gordie Howe International Bridge toll rates is very positive news for Windsor‑Essex and for the broader Canada–U.S. trade corridor. Early conversations with our transportation and logistics partners have been overwhelmingly supportive, with many noting that competitive and predictable tolls will re‑direct commercial traffic and commerce back through our region after years of cost‑driven diversions elsewhere. As one carrier put it, “This is a victory for the driver base, the community, and overall trade between our two countries.”
The introduction of the Breakaway toll discount program sends an important signal to the market that affordability, predictability, and efficiency are priorities at the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Competitive tolls will reduce operating costs for carriers, improve supply chain reliability, and make Windsor‑Essex an even more attractive gateway for manufacturers, exporters, and logistics firms on both sides of the border. Simply put, the Michigan and broader U.S. market just got closer to Windsor‑Essex.
The launch of the Breakaway toll discount program brings immediate relief to carriers and reinforces what we’ve long known: the Michigan and U.S. market just got closer to Windsor‑Essex. Once the Gordie Howe International Bridge opens, our region will be uniquely positioned with two affordable, Canadian‑owned border crossings available for both commercial and passenger traffic—strengthening competitiveness, improving reliability, and supporting long‑term economic growth on both sides of the border.
We commend the Windsor‑Detroit Bridge Authority and Bridging North America for engaging industry early and delivering a toll framework that supports drivers, businesses, and cross‑border trade.
For more information, visit the Gordie Howe International Bridge website here.