Gordie Howe bridges the unemployment gap

By Kurlis Mati

With the Gordie Howe International Bridge in development, Workforce Windsor Essex estimates approximately 2500 new jobs will be created over the next five years.  

The Windsor- Detroit Bridge Authority and Bridging North America unveiled the numbers at a public information meeting last Tuesday, discussing new jobs and opportunities, and how to apply for them.

Representatives from Workforce Windsor Essex were also at the meeting to present their jobs guide showing the many different opportunities required during the construction phase, operation phase and maintenance phase.

“What we are doing today with the guide is making it clear to the community that their are a wide variety of jobs that are expected with this historic infrastructure project,“ said Justin Falconer, Senior Director at Workforce Windsor Essex.  

According to the guide, job wages range from $14 an hour to $60 an hours and jobs shown in the guide included civil engineer, bricklayer, communications manager and much more.

The presentation also shared information on the project as a whole, how one can apply and how the bridge will be beneficial for the community.

In addition to the 2,500 Jobs being offered, 1,091 spin off jobs, such as retail and food services, will also be created on both sides of the border.

Stephanie Campeau, a Windsor Detroit Bridge authority representative, said the most important topic of interest at the meeting was community benefits.  

“We have about 70 people working at our department in Windsor and provide services on both sides of the border,” said Campeau.

The bridge is expected to be finished by fall 2024 with a cable-stayed design and six lanes, plus a bike and pedestrian lane.  

The Gordie Howe Bridge will also be the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America.