Hundreds of people lined up on both sides of the border this morning, to be one of the first people to use the multi-use path on the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
The path allows cyclists, runners, and pedestrians to cross the border free of charge.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said this is something the community fought hard to have on this new bridge.
“Being able to walk and ride your bike across the bridge was one of those community battles in the course of that 25 year history. When I look at everything put together, Windsor won. We stuck together, and we won. We’ve got a great roadway leading to a great bridge, and the ability to ride your bike and cross it on foot, something you haven’t been able to do for 50 years. It’s going to be exciting for everyone who lives here.”
IN PHOTOS: Pedestrian path opens on Gordie Howe International Bridge
The multi-use path is 2.5 kilometres long, with the total travel distance between border inspection booths measuring about 3 kilometres one way.
The crossing is expected to take about 20 minutes by bike, or 45 minutes on foot, not including time needed for border processing.
The path reaches a height of about 46 metres above the Detroit River and includes a five per cent incline in some areas. The speed limit is 20 km/h, and officials are reminding users that the crossing is not a race.
The pathway opened Wednesday at 8 a.m. to the public. This comes after the bridge opened to vehicular traffic on July 27.
The path will be open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the summer months, with last entry at 7 p.m.
Those walking or cycling across the bridge are reminded to bring required documentation, such as a passport, for entry/re-entry into both Canada and the United States.
