Detroit skyline to change dramatically with new bridge

Gordie Howe International Crossing will be taller than Renaissance Center

DETROIT – The city's tallest buildings will be dwarfed by the spires of the new bridge which likely will become the defining image of Detroit.

In Windsor they already are moving dirt, leveling ground and using specialized construction techniques to dry out mucky soil. Canada will buy and move Ontario hydro towers to make way for the Gordie Howe International Crossing.

No formal decisions for the bridge design have been made yet. However, a half dozen companies have submitted design plans.

There are two choices:

  • A regular suspension bridge, such as the Mackinac Bridge
  • A cable-stayed bridge, such as the one in Toledo, which is secured with large steel cables
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    Either way, no matter the configuration the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority chooses, the dual spires of the new crossing will stand more than 750 feet above the Detroit River. That's taller than the Renaissance Center.

    The bridge will dramatically alter the skyline and provide an infinitely more dramatic view for, say, the Detroit Lions Thanksgiving day football game or other big events that get national TV play.

    The distance between the six-lane deck and the Detroit River will be more than 50 yards to allow the freighters access. When the contractor finally is picked next year they will have 4 years to finish the bridge. Vehicles are expected to be on it by 2020.


    About the Author:

    Rod Meloni is an Emmy Award-winning Business Editor on Local 4 News and a Certified Financial Planner™ Professional.