FAQs Archive | Page 7 of 12 | Mackinac Bridge Authority

How are winds measured at the bridge?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

The Mackinac Bridge Authority has wind gauges on the bridge that we use to determine wind advisories and closures.… Read More

Why does my truck bed need to be empty during partial closures? Why can’t I have a tonneau cover? It stays on when I’m driving 75 on the expressway. What about camper awnings?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

Though our maximum speed limit on the bridge is 45 mph (and lower during high wind conditions), unfortunately we have seen many tonneau covers that stay on at freeway speeds come loose on the bridge. For whatever reason, high wind at the Straits seems to be stronger than tonneau fastening systems. When a tonneau cover… Read More

What vehicles are considered high-profile?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

When considering a high-wind escort or partial closure, high-profile vehicles would include but are not limited to:

Semi-tractor trailers
Recreational vehicles and campers
Pickup trucks with cappers, tonneau covers, or any items in the truck bed
Panel trucks and vans
Enclosed trailers (such as snowmobile or AT

How did the Mackinac Bridge Authority determine what wind speeds resulted in advisories and closures?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

The current procedures were developed primarily through years of experience, learning what wind speeds cause issues for particular vehicles. We’ve learned lessons from previous incidents, improved the devices we use to measure the wind, the way we convey that information through message boards and the bridge r… Read More

What wind conditions result in high wind warnings, escorts, partial closures, and full closures?

Posted on February 14th, 2023

Here are the speeds that trigger different wind warnings and closures. These speeds are not for gusts; they are sustained winds from any direction. These are minimum conditions resulting in advisories and closures but restrictions may be put in place at lower wind speeds if other hazardous conditions are present:… Read More

What payment types are accepted at the Mackinac Bridge toll booths?

Posted on February 7th, 2023

The Mackinac Bridge currently accepts the following payment types at our toll booths: cash, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. If you are a frequent crosser or would like the convenience of a prepaid account, check out our MacPass. While all these payment types are accepted, cash, Apple Pay, Google Pay, … Read More

How often does the Mackinac Bridge Authority close the bridge due to falling ice?

Posted on November 17th, 2022

Since 1995 (as far back as we have records for partial and total closures), the Authority has closed the bridge 32 times for ice. The first noted closure was on Jan. 30, 1998, when the bridge was closed for two hours and 50 minutes. The most recent was April 2-3, 2025, when the bridge was closed for 30 hours and 4 minutes. Th… Read More

Where can I find current information on the Annual Bridge Walk?

Posted on July 6th, 2022

Answer: Visit www.mackinacbridge.org/walk to see current information about the Annual Bridge Walk.… Read More

How do I access my MacPass online?

Posted on September 14th, 2019

Visit https://macpass.mackinacbridge.org
Select Activate Web Access.
Enter your account number. Click Next.
Enter the email address that is associated with the account. Click Submit.
Check your email and follow the steps provided. You will be prompted in the email to verify the link and set your user name and p

Who can I contact if I still have questions about MacPass?

Posted on August 30th, 2019

If you have questions about your MacPass you can call 906-643-7600.… Read More