The ongoing construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge (GHIB) has resulted in more benefits for groups on both sides of the Detroit River.
Thirteen groups, seven in Windsor and six in Detroit, are the latest GHIB Community Benefits Plan beneficiaries. The newest round was announced Tuesday morning at Crowley Park in Olde Sandwich Towne.
The grants are awarded to groups close to the project, particularly the Sandwich area of Windsor and the Delray neighbourhood of southwest Detroit.
"Our commitment to community investment has yielded astounding results for the Windsor-Detroit region over the past five years, with over 100 projects underway or complete through the Neighbourhood Infrastructure Strategy," said Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) CEO Charl van Niekerk. "I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve accomplished in collaboration with our valued delivery partners."
The Community Benefits Plan is part of the Community Organization Investment initiative, which offers grants of up to $25,000. The projects will be funded through June 2025.
The seven Windsor groups receiving funding are the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, CJAM-FM (99.1) Student Media, the Windsor-Essex Community Housing Corporation, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Bike Windsor Essex, Assumption University, and Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary.
In Detroit, the groups are New City Kids, the Hispanic Police Officers’ Association of Michigan Detroit Chapter, the Southwest Detroit Business Association, Trinity-St. Mark’s Pantry and Gardens, the Unity in Our Community Timebank, and Southwest Economic Solutions.
The Community Benefits Plan has been in place for five years. The application process for 2025 is set to open in November.
For complete information on the GHIB Community Benefits Plan, visit the official GHIB website.