Grosse Ile was deeply shaped by transportation. Before bridge access, the island witnessed shipping on the Detroit River. In 1873, the Canada Southern railway opened bridge access between the mainland and the island, and later the Michigan Central Railroad provided everyday travel for residents and visitors across the bridge and on to Detroit and elsewhere. That service declined as automobiles began crossing the new Toll Bridge in 1913. In 1928, the Michigan Central discontinued service to Grosse Ile, and by 1931 its main line had become Grosse Ile Parkway while the depot remained as a reminder of the island's railroad days.