Travellers planning to use the upcoming Gordie Howe International Bridge can now register for the “Breakaway” personal account program, unlocking toll discounts and automatic payments ahead of the bridge’s spring opening.
On Tuesday, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) and Bridging North America (BNA) launched Breakaway personal accounts, expanding the toll discount program to individuals and families.
Bridge officials say drivers with Breakaway tags on their vehicles benefit from automatic payments and exclusive savings.
How much does it cost to cross?
Passenger vehicles will pay a standard toll of C$8 or US$5.75 per crossing on the Gordie Howe International Bridge, while registered Breakaway members receive a 25 per cent discount, lowering the rate to C$6 or US$4.35.
“Whether you will be a daily commuter, a frequent visitor of local amenities or occasionally crossing for vacation, passenger vehicle travellers can save time and money on each trip across the Gordie Howe International Bridge by registering for a Breakaway personal account,” said Chuck Andary, interim chief executive officer and chief legal officer with the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority.
Passenger vehicles are defined as vehicles under 2.3 metres/7.5 feet in height.
How to Register
All travellers can now sign up at GordieHoweInternationalBrige.com, receive their tags and get ready for opening day.
Here’s what you’ll need to open a personal account:
- Name, address and contact details.
- An initial deposit of $20 paid by debit or credit.
- Selection of Breakaway tag type.
- Vehicle information – year, colour, make, model and licence plate.
You will receive your Breakaway tags in the mail following registration. Install the tag on your vehicle and activate it through your online account.
Spring opening
Officials say when the structure opens this spring, the Gordie Howe International Bridge will transform how people and goods move across the region.
“With testing and commissioning progressing across the Gordie Howe International Bridge, we are validating the systems and operations that will support opening day. Launching Breakaway personal accounts is part of that preparation, helping ensure both the infrastructure and its users are ready for a successful first crossing,” said David Henderson, Chief Executive Officer of Bridging North America.
There will be direct connections to local Windsor-Essex arteries including Front Road/Ojibway Parkway, Highway 3, Highway 401, E.C. Row Expressway, and Riverside Drive/Sandwich Street, and Detroit arteries including I-75, I-96, I-94, M-10, and Fort and Jefferson Streets.
Motorists in vehicles equipped with Breakaway tags can use any open toll lane. A few seconds later, charges are applied, the gate lifts, and drivers continue on their journey.
Business account registration remains open, allowing companies to prepare their fleets alongside personal travellers ahead of bridge opening.
More information about Breakaway will be available at WDBA’s upcoming Public Information Meetings.
