What was the goal of the Blue Water Bridge utility modeling project?

The project aimed to develop a three-dimensional utility model that clearly identifies utilities located in, on, and adjacent to the Blue Water Bridge, its properties, and the toll plaza.

What services supported the 3D utility model design?

LiDAR was used to capture a single point cloud and a design survey of the US toll plaza and surrounding properties, while SUE and utility designation services were provided within the toll plaza limits and bridge areas.

How did Kiwa T2 help reduce project risk?

Kiwa T2 designated approximately 100,000 linear feet of buried utilities, provided electronic depths for designated utilities, and helped identify utilities in the tunnel under the toll booths to reduce utility-related risk and project delays.

Blue Water Bridge - Michigan 3D Utility Model

Wide river or harbour view with the Blue Water bridge between Port Huron, Michigan and Point Edward and Sarnia at sunset and a fishing rod along the waterfront railing.

7 September 2026

Kiwa T2 supported HNTB and Michigan DOT on the Blue Water Bridge, delivering SUE and utility designation to help create a 3D utility model.

Client: HNTB
Project Owner: Michigan DOT

The Blue Water Bridge (BWB) spans the St. Clair River and carries international traffic between Port Huron, Michigan and Point Edward and Sarnia, Ontario. Located near the I-94 and I-69 interchange, the bridge forms a critical gateway linking Canada and the United States.

In 2018 the Michigan DOT advertised a RFP to design a three dimensional (3D) utility model which includes all utilities located in, on and adjacent to the bridges, the BWB properties and the toll plaza. The 3D utility model will provide fast and clear identification of all utilities.

To support the design of the 3D utility model, LiDAR was used to provide a single point cloud and a design survey of the US toll plaza for the BWB and surrounding properties. Kiwa T2provided SUE services within the limits of the toll plaza, relocated customs/duty free areas and both bridges up to the US border. Kiwa T2 designated approximately 100,000 linear feet of buried utilities to date, within the project limits and provided electronic depths along each designated buried utility. Kiwa T2 assisted the client with identifying the utilities within the utility tunnel that runs under the toll booths, reducing the utility related risk and project delays.

Following scheduling challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the bridge is now open and fully operational, connecting the United States and Canada.