The Gordie Howe International Bridge Multi-Use Path
The Gordie Howe International Bridge project includes a dedicated multi-use path that will accommodate pedestrians and cyclists across the Windsor-Detroit border once complete.
The multi-use path will be toll-free and includes one lane that will accommodate two-way pedestrian and cyclist traffic.
The integration of the multi-use path will benefit communities and travellers by supporting active transportation, healthy lifestyles and enhance cross-border tourism while providing sustainable options for reducing the carbon footprint of cross-border traffic.
Public consultation was undertaken in early 2024, to inform the development of future operational policies related to access, public safety and user experience. Terms of Use for the multi-use path will be shared prior to the bridge opening in 2025.
The multi-use path will be one lane and will accommodate two-way pedestrian and cyclist traffic.
It will be 2.5 kilometres/1.5 miles in length and 3.6 metres/11.8 feet wide.
The multi-use path will also connect into existing local trail networks.
Use of the path will be toll-free.
Safety features on the multi-use path.
The multi-use path currently includes the following safety features:
- concrete barriers separating the multi-use path from vehicular traffic
- means restriction fencing
- emergency call stations along the path
- security cameras
- lighting.
Each Port of Entry will have separate processing facilities to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.
The multi-use path will connect into paths located around the exteriors of both Ports of Entry and to local road and trail networks in Windsor and Detroit. The path is integrated into the Trans Canada Trail in Windsor, Ontario and connects to the Iron Belle Trail and the Great Lakes Way in Detroit, Michigan.
US Port of Entry Connections
Canadian Port of Entry Connections
Based on community feedback, the project team is committed to providing a connection into the broader Essex County active transportation system, including the Rt. Hon. Herb Gray Parkway trail system. The new Broadway Street multi-use path will further enhance local and regional cycling networks by creating a new cycling and pedestrian connection from the corner of Broadway Street and Ojibway Parkway to the corner of Broadway Street and Matchett Road, where it will connect to the existing City of Windsor Matchett Road Multi-Use Trail.
Broadway Street Multi-Use Path Details
The Broadway Street path will be located on the north side of the road along the right of way, connecting into the Canadian Port of Entry via an existing Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) trail. When complete it will provide a connection between Ojibway Parkway and Malden Park, where users can access the Rt. Hon. Herb Gray Parkway Trail.
The Broadway Street multi-use path is funded by the project Community Benefits Plan. Initiatives identified in the plan were based on community consultation undertaken between 2015 and 2018 where investment into active transportation infrastructure was strongly supported. In addition to the Broadway Street multi-use path, a trailhead at Malden Park will also be constructed providing multi-use path users with a safe parking option and meeting point near the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
Broadway Street Multi-Use Path and Malden Park Trailhead Design and Construction
The Broadway Street multi-use path will be constructed to meet Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) requirements and is anticipated to include:
- Construction of an approximately three-metre-wide asphalt multi-use path on the north side of Broadway Street, separated from vehicular traffic by a buffer including road markings and rumble strips, where space permits.
- Creation of a trailhead at Malden Park, adjacent to the Matchett Road parking lot, including benches, wayfinding signage and garbage cans.
- Infill of the existing ditch on the north side of Broadway Street and construction of a new swale adjacent to the new multi-use path to facilitate stormwater drainage, including installation of catch basins and culverts.
- Relocation of hydrants and other existing infrastructure, as needed.
- Installation of wayfinding signage and benches along the pathway.
Note: Enwin will install streetlights along existing pole infrastructure on Broadway Street to enhance safety for multi-use path users.
Construction on the Broadway Street multi-use path and Malden Park trailhead is anticipated to begin in spring 2025 and last approximately five weeks. More specific details will be shared closer to the start of construction.
Construction will take place between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Once complete, the multi-use path will become part of the municipal trail network and will be owned and maintained by the City of Windsor.
All designs and features are subject to change. Preliminary design details are below:
Legend:
Broadway Street connection to Ojibway Parkway
This section begins at the existing MTO trail connecting Ojibway Parkway to Broadway Street. It includes a smooth connection into the existing trail, removal and installation of new storm culverts, installation of storm catch basins, swales and rumble strips.
Connection with existing MTO Ojibway Parkway trail.
Broadway Street to Beech Avenue and Matchett Road
The multi-use path will intersect with Beech Street and includes sidewalk tie-ins and repairs to the approach way. Bollards and tactile strips will be installed at the intersection of Broadway Street and Beech Street. The multi-use path will connect into Matchett Road, including removal and repairs to the road approach at this intersection, sidewalk tie ins, addition of tactile strips, a new bench and connection into the City of Windsor Matchett Road Multi-Use Trail.
Intersection with Beech Street.
Connection with Matchett Road.
Malden Park Trailhead Design
The Malden Park Trailhead will be installed at the Matchett Road entrance to Malden Park and will include benches, garbage receptacles and wayfinding signage. The trailhead will be near one of the park’s public parking lots and Transit Windsor bus stops.
The trailhead sign will comply with City of Windsor design guidelines.
The project team is committed to limiting impacts to nearby residents and businesses during construction and will keep the community informed as the design and construction plans are finalized.