The Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships lauds the Gordie Howe International Bridge for its commitment to environmental sustainability and community prosperity.
The council awarded the bridge its National Environmental, Social and Governance Award at a gala in Toronto this past week.
The award recognizes a public-private partnership project that prioritizes the environment and community.
"Each project component comprises design, construction and operations features that firmly establish the Gordie Howe International Bridge project as an example of sustainable infrastructure," said the council. "One that is socially, environmentally, and economically responsible, contributes to a cleaner environment and protects communities on both sides of the border, both now and into the future, from the impacts of climate change."
The council pointed out features such as the integration of energy-efficient LED and low-maintenance lighting, the installation of a peregrine falcon box on the bridge to encourage nesting, the relocation of 2,600 plants and 2,000 seeds from native prairie species, and the incorporation of green roofs on select buildings.
It also noted local road improvements, cycling infrastructure, and enhanced streetscaping.
"Efforts relating to the ESG on the Gordie Howe International Bridge project are uniquely ambitious and impactful given the nature and size of the undertaking," said Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority CEO Charl Van Niekerk. "As a binational project, the team strives to provide distinct environmental and social benefits to the two diverse communities while simultaneously delivering on its mandate to improve the movement of people and goods through the busiest commercial land crossing between Canada and the U.S."
So far, the bridge deck is more than half complete and towers on both sides of the Detroit River have reached their full height.
The bridge should open to traffic in late 2024.
Construction cost the federal government $5.7-billion, which will be recouped through tolls.
