Everyday, several students who attend Lake State must cross the International Bridge to attend their classes.

Many people who cross the bridge don’t take the time to think about it, so here are some facts about the International Bridge.

The International Bridge or the Sault Sainte Marie Bridge spans the St. Mary’s River between the United States and Canada. It is the only vehicular crossing between Ontario and Michigan within 300 miles.  The bridge is the connection between the twin Saults, Sault Sainte Marie, MI (population 16,000) and Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario (population 80,000).  Construction for the bridge began in 1960, and was officially opened for traffic on October 31, 1962.  It took 25 years to put together financing and planning for the bridge, which cost both the governments of Michigan and Ontario approximately 20 million dollars.  Before its completion, the only way to travel between the twin Saults was by car ferry or a railroad bridge built in 1880. Since the Soo crossing is near the Trans-Canada Highway, it is a convenient route for goods going by truck from Northeastern and Eastern Ontario as well as Northern Quebec and the Montreal area to the Upper Great Lakes States.  The Crossing is connected directly to the major north-south artery, I-75, and to Michigan Highway 28.  The bridge also plays a role in the well being of both Soo communities.  It serves as a link to the transportation of steel, paper, and forest industries, as well and tourists work, recreation and shopping purposes. The total distance to get into Sault, MI or Sault, Ontario is approximately 2.8 miles in length. The width is 28 feet wide and 124 feet high, with the double arches crossing over the Sault Locks.  While entering either country by the International Bridge you will be asked a few questions as to why you are entering the particular country.  In order to be let in, you will need a photo ID, and a birth certificate, or a passport.  Every person in the vehicle must prove their citizenship. This information was used from the Michigan Department of Transportation website.  For more information on the International Bridge you can visit the MDOT website at http://www.michigan,giv.mdot. 

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