ST. IGNACE — The operation of the Mackinac Bridge and its related tourism and events contribute $193 million each year to Michigan’s economy, according to a newly released study accepted Tuesday by the Mackinac Bridge Authority.
Conducted by Public Sector Consultants, the study found the bridge supports 1,449 jobs through direct, indirect and induced economic activity. For every $1 in tolls paid, $7.27 is generated in statewide spending.
“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 MBA 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.”
The report shows $161.6 million of the bridge’s total economic impact is concentrated in the three Straits area counties: Mackinac, Emmet and Cheboygan.
Presented during the MBA’s July 9 meeting on Mackinac Island, the study also highlighted the 2024 Annual Bridge Walk’s contributions, estimating the event generated $3 million in spending statewide — including $2.4 million locally — and $250,000 in state and local taxes to support infrastructure, public safety and schools.
Other key findings from the study include:
- Nearly half of the 15,000 survey respondents said viewing the bridge was a primary reason for their visit.
- One-third of the roughly 2 million non-local bridge visitors came from outside Michigan.
- About two-thirds of area businesses said the Annual Bridge Walk positively impacted them.
- Nearly half of Bridge Walk participants stayed at least one night locally, spending an average of $224.93.
- Day-trippers spent an average of $44.05 during their visit.
- The Mackinac Bridge Authority’s operational spending adds more than $100,000 annually in local taxes across the three counties.
An executive summary of the report is attached to the study, and the full version is available on the Mackinac Bridge Authority’s website.