On February 1, 2023, the Gordie Howe International Bridge project team announced $2.3 (CDN) million of Community Benefits Plan funding has been invested into new initiatives.
Eleven new projects and six existing initiatives will receive funding as part of the Neighbourhood Infrastructure Strategy, a $20 million (CDN) direct community investment on both sides of the border developed through extensive community feedback.
“New trees, art installations, supports for small businesses, youth programming and improvements to homes, parks and community hubs are a few initiatives that are already empowering the local communities to implement their vision for the future,” says Heather Grondin, Vice President, Corporate Affairs and External Relations, Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority. “We can’t wait to see similar successes stemming from these new programs in the Gordie Howe International Bridge Community Benefits Plan.”
With the help of project partners and community members, the project team reviewed new proposals from local organizations in 2022, narrowing it down to 17 initiatives for investment – 11 new and six existing initiatives. All initiatives selected will benefit the neighbourhoods closest to the project in Windsor and Detroit.
The $2.3 million (CDN) has been invested into the following community priority areas:
- $1.1 million for Community Partnerships
- $659,600 for Economic Benefits
- $400,000 for Community Safety and Connections
- $142,000 for Aesthetics and Landscaping.
Learn more about the new and expanded initiatives here.
Of the $20 million (CDN) in Neighbourhood Investment Strategy funding, $3.1 million remains unallocated. The project team will seek input on how to invest the remaining funds later in 2023, with investments to be made in early 2024 – Stay tuned!
