For Immediate Release
May 31, 2021
WINDSOR, ONTARIO – The following statement was issued today by Dwight Duncan - Chair, Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) Board of Directors
“The Gordie Howe International Bridge Project is coming to life before our eyes.
To see the great towers of the new span reaching skyward is testament to the dedication of literally thousands of people over the course of a generation.
The entire team at the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA), under the leadership of CEO Bryce Phillips and the Board of Directors, is well positioned to oversee the completion and transition to the operations phase of this vital project.
Like any marathon the last few kilometres can be the most difficult and challenging. The Gordie Howe International Bridge is no exception. A lot of hard work lies ahead but I am confident that everyone involved is up to the task.
With this in mind, I have advised The Hon. Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities for the Government of Canada, that I would not seek to be reappointed Chair of the Board of this Crown corporation when my term expires later this year. I look forward to working with the new Chair, once appointed, to ensure a smooth transition and continue to move this incredibly important project forward toward a successful completion.
Reporting to Minister McKenna her staff and Department, has been a real pleasure. Her commitment to the Gordie Howe International Bridge is exceeded only by her passion for the environment and public service.
I would like to express my gratitude to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government for giving me this wonderful opportunity way back in December 2015. I have had the privilege of reporting to two other Ministers over the course of my tenure; Amarjeet Sohi and Francois-Philippe Champagne. Both these individuals represent the very best in Canadian politics.
The WDBA’s achievements over the last 6 years include the acquisition of literally hundreds of properties on both sides of the border, completion of the “early works” -designed to prepare those properties for the construction phase of the project; the awarding of the project agreement to the BNA Group; ground breaking on the span, ports of entry, and I 75 interchange; the 100% successful defence of many law suits brought by opponents of the project, the implementation of a Community Benefits Plan in Canada and the United States and now the beginning of preparations for the opening and operation of the new border crossing.
The WDBA’s efforts have led to a number of the most prestigious awards and recognitions in the infrastructure, P3, employment, education and environmental spheres.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the team at the WDBA. I wish everyone involved with this amazing project the best of luck going forward. I can’t wait to ride my bike across the new bridge in the not-to-distant future!”
Media Relations Team
226 757-1716
info [at] wdbridge.com
