In recent months, as concerns grew over the delayed opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the Ambassador Bridge over the Detroit River, a privately-owned entity, made aggressive moves to retain trucking companies’ business, as reported by a representative from the Ontario Trucking Association. Lak Shoan, the association’s policy director, mentioned that they became aware of the Ambassador Bridge’s efforts through member feedback in the spring.
CBC Windsor reached out to Canadian trucking companies with cross-border operations to inquire if they had been approached by the Ambassador Bridge regarding toll rate offers. Some declined to comment on private business agreements, while others did not respond. However, a U.S. trucking union official, in a now-deleted post from late July, instructed members not to use the new publicly-owned crossing, citing significant toll savings under their current contract with the Ambassador Bridge.
Toll rates and revenue played a crucial role in the prolonged political saga surrounding the opening of the $6.4 billion Gordie Howe bridge, entirely funded by the Canadian government. The agreement to open the bridge includes a provision allowing the U.S. government to prevent toll reductions below the average of comparable regional crossings.
The influential Moroun family, owners of the Ambassador Bridge since 1979, intensified their political lobbying efforts before former U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to block the new bridge’s opening. Despite the delayed opening, the Gordie Howe bridge eventually commenced operations on July 27, following a scrapped June opening at the U.S. government’s request.
Allegations have been made against Trump for attempting to hinder the new bridge’s opening to benefit the Morouns. Representatives for the Ambassador Bridge did not respond to queries before publication. However, their website suggests the availability of a cost-effective toll program for certain trucking companies.
Shoan mentioned that while the exact details of the Ambassador Bridge’s offers remain unknown, the focus seemed to be on retaining or attracting fleets. Healthy competition between the bridges could potentially lead to reduced toll costs for trucking companies.
Financial specifics revealed by Barrett, the UAW Local 212 Chair, indicated significant savings under their current contract with the Ambassador Bridge. Stellantis, the parent company of FCA Transport, declined to confirm the exclusive toll contract status of its drivers with the Ambassador Bridge.
Stellantis expressed enthusiasm for the Gordie Howe International Bridge’s opening, emphasizing its importance in facilitating seamless logistics for their manufacturing operations across borders. Shoan highlighted the appeal of deals from the Ambassador Bridge amidst the uncertainties surrounding the Gordie Howe bridge’s opening, particularly in the current unsettled economic climate where businesses seek stability and cost certainty.
