Ontario Construction News staff writer
WINDSOR — A scale model of the Gordie Howe International Bridge now has a permanent home at the University of Windsor, marking a decade-long partnership between the university and the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) that has given hundreds of students hands-on experience with one of North America’s largest infrastructure projects.
The 1:750-scale model, unveiled last month at the Ed Lumley Centre for Engineering Innovation, measures 6.1 metres long and 2.4 metres wide. It includes detailed representations of the bridge, two ports of entry, and the Michigan Interchange. A smaller 1:500-scale version is installed in the Dean’s boardroom.
“This partnership with WDBA exemplifies how strategic collaboration can empower students, strengthen communities, and bridge regional priorities with global innovation,” said University of Windsor President Robert Gordon.
Since 2016, more than 220 UWindsor students have completed co-op placements with WDBA across disciplines including civil engineering, communications, and environmental science. More than 50 alumni now work in key roles supporting the bridge project.
Grant Hilbers, WDBA chief capital officer and a UWindsor graduate, said the display “invites the next generation of students, engineers and community leaders to imagine the ways they may be able to shape the future through large infrastructure projects.”
Adding a creative touch, engineering students 3D-printed miniature figurines to populate the model, representing members of both the university and WDBA teams.
The partnership also reaches beyond campus. Through the Gordie Howe International Bridge Community Benefits Plan, WDBA has supported initiatives such as CJAM’s Higher Grounds Music Festival, Assumption University’s Father Joe Quinn Education Series, and the campus Pow Wow.
With the bridge scheduled to open later this year, the model at UWindsor serves as a lasting tribute to student involvement and cross-border collaboration.
