In 1929, Central Detroit Warehouse opened on Fort Street during the height of the Great Depression. That same year, a suspension bridge over the Detroit River opened as well. It was called the Ambassador Bridge.
Prior to the bridge, trade and travel between both countries was limited to boat and tunnel passageways. It became an inefficient and congested barrier for the people who lived on either side. The opening of the Ambassador Bridge came at a pivotal turning point in the early development and success of what we now call the U.S. automotive industry. It became a symbol of our resilience as we fought our way out of economic poverty.
Today, nearly a century later, we eerily stand on opposite sides once again. Evans; employees watched an iconic landmark being built over the last eight years. We watched in wonder to get a glimpse of the ramps that were destined to lead us to new opportunities to improve our lives, businesses, and economies.
The developers, leaders, and bridge workers put endless hours into a project of unity between two countries who share a common thread. Today, the border connects families, jobs, and businesses across the same resilient people who continue to call this region home.
The journey is not over; it’s only just begun at Evans Distribution Systems. Our history will not repeat itself only it guides us into this next chapter of U.S.-Canadian prosperity. Thank you to everyone who waited and watched along with us. We look forward to the day when we can all cross the bridge together.
Watch Dawn Harthun, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, explain the significance of opening the International Gordie Howe Bridge, nearly a century after the founding of Evans Distribution Systems.
