#Canada #Windsor #Arcadis #Gordie Howe Bridge #trade connectivity

Transforming North American Trade with Arcadis

The Gordie Howe International Bridge, a pivotal infrastructure project between Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, marks a new era in trade connectivity for North America. At its helm is Arcadis, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, which has engineered an advanced toll system integral to the bridge’s operations.

A Landmark Project

Officially opened, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is distinguished as the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America and the 10th longest in the world. This $6.4 billion project is more than just a crossing; it is set to redefine trade dynamics, featuring six lanes of traffic designed to handle oversized vehicles and hazardous materials. On-site inspections at the crossing promise to streamline the movement of goods significantly.

Arcadis' Integral Role

Since 2018, Arcadis has been a crucial player in this transformative project. Engaged through the design team from the preliminary stages, Arcadis was tasked with the intricate details of the tolling and security system, as well as the intelligent transportation systems (ITS) needed for effective operations. Their scope of work expanded to encompass the full supply and integration of the toll system, showcasing their expertise in digital and intelligent infrastructure.

The company developed a fully integrated tolling solution that revolutionizes how toll collection is managed. The system includes roadside infrastructure, automated toll collection, real-time transaction processing, and advanced traffic monitoring, all designed to optimize traffic flow and enhance safety. This strategic implementation will greatly influence how efficiently goods move across the border.

Launching Breakaway

In addition to the physical toll infrastructure, Arcadis introduced the Breakaway program, allowing travelers and commercial operators to pre-register and pay for tolls digitally. This digital approach promotes user engagement and ensures that the system is ready for widespread adoption, leading to more automated and streamlined crossings.

Usha Elyatamby, Global Director of Digital Transportation at Arcadis, emphasized the significance of this bridge not just as an architectural feat but as a vital investment in future mobility for North America. She stated, "The Gordie Howe International Bridge represents our commitment to enhancing cross-border connectivity and driving economic growth for communities on both sides of the border. Our tolling system and intelligent transportation platform will provide a seamless experience for users, ensuring that this bridge meets the demands of the 21st century."

A Milestone for Arcadis

The inauguration of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is a significant milestone for Arcadis, reinforcing their reputation as leaders in infrastructure and digital design within North America. The bridge now stands alongside several other toll facilities across the continent and beyond, further establishing Arcadis' role in creating efficient and reliable cross-border transportation.

About Arcadis

Arcadis, with a robust workforce of around 34,000 professionals, is dedicated to delivering sustainable, data-driven design and engineering solutions across various sectors. They have a strong commitment to high-quality living standards, working across over 30 countries and reporting impressive gross revenues of €4.9 billion for 2025. This project not only showcases Arcadis’ capabilities but also reflects their vision of a planet-positive future through sustainable infrastructure.

As the Gordie Howe International Bridge leads into an era of improved trade relations, Arcadis continues to set the standard for innovative infrastructure solutions.