Plans are in place for the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the new $4.7 billion crossing linking Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, to begin allowing traffic in the coming weeks, with Detroit media reporting an opening date of June 15. Reports also indicate a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for later this week.
The project, financed by Canada after the United States declined to contribute funds, began construction in 2018. According to statements about the financing model, toll revenues collected over a 30-year period are expected to cover the bridge's cost.
The bridge's imminent opening follows a period of uncertainty after U.S. President Donald Trump said in February he might bar the crossing from opening. In his remarks he cited several grievances as potential justification for blocking the bridge - Canada's refusal to stock certain U.S. alcoholic beverages in Canadian stores, Canadian dairy tariffs, and Canada's trade discussions with China.
At a Senate hearing last week, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said his department was prepared to staff the Gordie Howe bridge, signaling federal operational readiness for processing crossings at the new port.
Officials and local observers expect the new international link to relieve truck congestion on the privately owned Ambassador Bridge into Detroit. The Ambassador Bridge currently functions as the region's busiest freight gateway on the U.S.-Canada border, handling a substantial share of cross-border truck traffic.
While a ribbon-cutting is reported to be planned for later this week and traffic could start moving on June 15, public reporting indicates there were earlier questions about whether the U.S. executive branch might act to prevent the opening. The financing plan, construction timeline and operational staffing cited above are as reported by local and wire service outlets.
Sectors impacted: Transportation, logistics, cross-border trade and freight infrastructure.