Grosse Ile Toll Bridge

The Grosse Ile Toll Bridge is a road bridge crossing the Trenton Channel of the Detroit River, connecting Grosse Ile Township with the city of Riverview. It operates as a swing bridge structure that can rotate horizontally to allow larger vessels to pass through the waterway below.

German immigrant Edward W. Voigt founded the Grosse Ile Bridge Company in 1912 to build the island's first automobile bridge. This project marked a turning point by finally connecting the island conveniently to the mainland and enabling its growth as a residential area.

The bridge embodies the link between an isolated island and the mainland, making it possible for Grosse Ile to develop as a distinct community. This connection fostered a sense of belonging among residents and made the island an attractive place for people seeking proximity to the city while maintaining distance from urban life.

The bridge is toll-controlled and vehicles need a pass to cross. Visitors should check current toll rates and payment methods before planning their trip to ensure smooth passage.

The bridge features a swing mechanism that rotates 90 degrees to allow larger vessels to pass through the channel. This engineering solution shows how infrastructure must accommodate both road traffic and river navigation in the same space.

Location: Wayne County

Official opening: November 27, 1913

GPS coordinates: 42.17250,-83.15950

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:03