The official announcement from the federal government confirms that the Gordie Howe International Bridge, linking Ontario to Michigan, will open on July 27. The decision to open the bridge was reached through an agreement between Canada, Michigan, and with the support of the U.S. government. The agreement includes collaborative measures for toll governance and transparency, as well as investments in the region through a 15-year economic development fund tied to a portion of bridge profits.
According to a senior Canadian government source, Canada will receive 50% of toll profits during the first 15 years of the bridge’s operation, with the remaining 50% allocated to a regional economic development fund. Any adjustments to bridge toll rates exceeding 10% or falling below regional averages will require U.S. concurrence. The six-lane cable-stayed bridge spans approximately 2.4 kilometers across the Detroit River, connecting Windsor, Ont., and Detroit.
Named in honor of the late Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, who played 25 seasons for the Detroit Red Wings, construction on the bridge began in 2018, with Canada funding the project. A ribbon-cutting ceremony originally scheduled for June 12 was postponed at the request of the U.S. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the delay was to address outstanding issues.
Earlier this year, former U.S. President Donald Trump had demanded significant ownership of the bridge and made other requests, leading to delays. However, a new agreement was reached, allowing the bridge’s opening to proceed. The toll bridge, jointly owned by Canada and Michigan, is anticipated to alleviate congestion at the current Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, facilitating commercial trade and cross-border travel between the two cities. Residents of Detroit and Windsor have historically shared a close relationship, frequently traversing the border for various activities.