The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority has issued Request for Proposals (RFP) for the construction of Gordie Howe International Bridge, a new Canada-US crossing at the Windsor-Detroit border.

The Gordie Howe international bridge project includes the construction of a new six-lane bridge, with a clear span of 850m and a total length of nearly 2.5km.

The new bridge project is expected to further enhance trading relationship between these two countries.

"This project is extremely complex, and it is moving forward thanks to the continued collaboration of many groups on both sides of the border."

Canada Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Amarjeet Sohi said: “The Gordie Howe International Bridge is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in North America because of its vital role in maintaining and growing Canada’s most important trade relationship and closest partnership with the United States.

“This new border crossing, allowing traffic to move freely from the Windsor-Detroit border, through southern Ontario and beyond, will create significant economic benefits for Canadian businesses.

“I commend Governor Snyder and his government for their important work on Michigan property acquisition.

"This project is extremely complex, and it is moving forward thanks to the continued collaboration of many groups on both sides of the border.”

The project will also see construction of customs plazas and a tolling station on the Canadian side, and a Michigan interchange connecting Interstate 75 to the US Port of Entry.

The Windsor-Detroit trade corridor is reported to be busiest commercial land crossing on the Canada-US border, handling 31% of Canada-US trade carried by truck. Nearly 2.5 million trucks carrying over C$100bn ($75bn) in trade use this corridor annually.

The new six-lane bridge will be beneficial for residents of Windsor, Detroit and neighbouring communities as it will reduce commercial traffic on the streets and create new economic opportunities in the communities.

Upon construction, Canada’s Port of Entry will become the largest Canadian port on the Canada-US border and the US Port of Entry will be one of the largest in North America.