On this week’s Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, Jeff speaks with Andy Doctoroff, the Michigan Governor’s Office point person on construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.

https://www.gordiehoweinternationalbridge.com/en

Thursday, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joined MDOT Director Paul Ajegba and Canadian officials in southwest Detroit to unveil the design for modern pedestrian crossings over I-75, enhancing connectivity in the neighborhood.

https://www.crainsdetroit.com/construction/design-revealed-gordie-howe-bridge-pedestrian-spans-over-i-75

Thursday’s unveiling follows an announcement last year about myriad other benefits the bridge will provide on both sides of the border.

https://www.freep.com/story/money/business/john-gallagher/2019/06/14/gordie-howe-bridge-detroit-windsor/1456743001/

This also comes on the heels of announcement of a $15 million commitment from the U.S. federal government to help with the customs plaza in Detroit.

https://www.crainsdetroit.com/government/gordie-howe-bridge-project-gets-first-us-funding

Doctoroff also talks about his transition from a career as a litigator at a major Detroit law firm to his role helping to plan construction of a vital international trade crossing. The Gordie Howe International Bridge will be the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America and a symbol of the long friendship and partnership between Canada and Michigan. Approximately 7,000 trucks cross the corridor each day, and about 2.5 million trucks each year. This represents one quarter of all Canada-U.S. trade.

https://www.acppubs.com/articles/8394-construction-of-gordie-howe-international-bridge-a-top-priority-for-canada-and-michigan

In a joint statement issued in May, Gov. Whitmer and Canada’s top infrastructure official reaffirmed their support of the project. Also discussed: How Complete Streets legislation and modern infrastructure affords opportunities to rethink urban planning in the spirit of Jane Jacobs and her battles.

https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499-496375--,00.html

http://www.altimeterfilms.com/citizen-jane-battle-for-the-city