International Bridge Marks DECADES OF UNITY!

The completion of the second span of the Bluewater Bridge on July 22, 1997 over the St. Clair River united communities and created a lasting six-lane international crossing between the U.S. and Canada.

At a Glance

• The original Bluewater Bridge opened in October 1938 as a cantilever-truss bridge spanning 1,883 meters.
• Traffic growth led to the construction of a continuous tied‑arch span from April 1995 to July 1997.
• The second span officially opened to traffic on July 22, 1997, adding three eastbound lanes.
• Approximately 75,000 pedestrians walked the new span during its celebratory opening weekend.
• The twin-span crossing remains the second-busiest land border crossing between the U.S. and Canada, serving over four million vehicles annually.

A Symbol Of Binational Collaboration

By the late 1980s, congestion on the original single-span bridge had become critical. In response, planners approved a twin-span project in July 1991. Over the following two years, engineers from both countries constructed a steel-and-concrete tied-arch structure designed to complement the existing cantilever truss while improving maintenance efficiency. The second span officially opened on July 22, 1997, resulting in a unified six-lane corridor managed jointly by Michigan and Canadian authorities.

A Celebratory Opening

The launch of the second span was a landmark event. Over a two-day celebration in July 1997, an estimated 75,000 people from both sides of the border walked across together. The opening featured symbolic gestures, including simultaneous flag raisings by youth delegations. A motorcycle sidecar, filled with contest winners, became the first paying vehicle to cross—underscoring the bridge’s role in fostering shared culture and community ties.

Watch a report: 1996 How They Built The Blue Water Bridge 2nd Span YouTube

Living Legacy And Economic Link

Since opening, the twin spans have carried more than four million vehicles annually, forming a vital artery between Michigan’s I‑94/I‑69 and Ontario’s Highway 402. Owned and operated via a binational partnership, the bridge undergoes regular maintenance, including lane closures and upgrades, to ensure safety and efficiency. Its continued operation underscores enduring North American cooperation and the ongoing economic importance of cross-border infrastructure.