The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) has invited the three to submit formal proposals to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the scheme. The project includes four components – the Canadian and US ports of entry, the bridge over the Detroit River between Windsor in Ontario and Detroit in Michigan, and the Michigan Interchange connecting to Interstate-75.
The 18-month RFP stage is the second phase in WDBA’s competitive procurement process to select a private-sector partner. The three proponents – Bridging North America, CanAm Gateway Partners and Legacy Link Partners – were prequalified through the request for qualifications (RFQ) stage in January this year (link opens in new tab).
The six-lane bridge will have a clear span of 850m and a total length of approximately 2.5km. Conceptual designs have been produced for both suspension and cable-stayed options.
The RFP sets out the conditions and specifications required to deliver the project. The proponents will prepare and submit their binding technical and financial proposals, including a fixed price and schedule. Each proposal will then be evaluated and a preferred proponent will be identified. Subject to reaching financial close and to appropriate approvals, this proponent will become WDBA’s private-sector partner.
The request for proposals is perhaps the single most important document that WDBA will deliver,” said WDBA president and chief executive officer Michael Cautillo. “Much progress has already been accomplished on both sides of the border and we continue to work to prepare the sites for this historic infrastructure project in advance of the construction to be undertaken by the private-sector partner.”
