Mackinac Bridge contribute $193 million in economic output

Study shows Mackinac Bridge operation, events contribute $193 million in economic output statewide

ST. IGNACE, Mich. – The Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) today accepted an economic impact study showing that the bridge’s operation, tourism and events contributed $193 million annually to the state’s economy in direct, indirect and induced spending, supporting 1,449 jobs.

The study, performed under a contract with Public Sector Consultants, found that for every $1 in tolls paid at the bridge, $7.27 was generated in spending in Michigan. An economic impact of $161.6 million was concentrated in the Straits area counties of Mackinac, Emmet and Cheboygan. Results of the study were presented during the MBA’s July 9 meeting on Mackinac Island.

The study also examined the economic impact of the Annual Bridge Walk, which in 2024 had nearly 33,000 participants, stimulated $3 million in spending statewide, with $2.4 million spent in those neighboring counties. The event also generated $250,000 in state and local taxes used to support public safety, local infrastructure, schools, and other public services.

“We’ve always known that the operation of the Mackinac Bridge, as well as special events including the Annual Bridge Walk, have had a significant impact on the local communities and beyond,” said Authority Vice Chairman William Milliken. “We’re so pleased to see this study confirms and validates the positive impact it has for businesses and local governments.”

Other notable study points include:

• Nearly half of the 15,000 people surveyed for the study said enjoying views of the bridge was one of the main purposes for crossing.
• One-third of the roughly two million non-local visitors to the bridge came from outside of Michigan.
• Nearly two-thirds of areas businesses said that the Annual Bridge Walk positively affected their businesses.
• Nearly half of the survey respondents who participated in the walk said they stayed one or more nights locally before the event.
• Participants in the Annual Bridge Walk who made it an overnight trip spent an average of $224.93 on lodging, food and beverages, shopping, transportation, and other recreation. Participants who walked the bridge as a day trip spent an average of $44.05.
• MBA operational spending generates more than $100,000 per year in local taxes in the three-county area.

A copy of the report’s executive summary is attached. A copy of the full report is posted on the Mackinac Bridge Authority website.