Phil Saoud has encountered comments about having a significant responsibility in ensuring the successful operation of every system on the Gordie Howe International Bridge, linking Windsor, Ont., and Detroit. As the vice-president and senior commissioning agent at Peter Basso Associates, a Michigan-based engineering consulting firm, he embraces the challenge with his team.
The delay in the bridge’s opening is attributed to the approximately 3,300 tests required at the U.S. and Canadian ports of entry, in addition to evaluations on the bridge deck and connecting highways, according to Saoud. He mentioned that the Canadian port of entry testing is nearly complete, while the U.S. side is about 80% done, with ongoing progress on the remaining tasks.
The missed opening targets, including the latest one in fall 2025, have led to uncertainties about the opening date. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) emphasizes the importance of completing the testing and commissioning processes before setting an opening timeline.
One recent test involved examining the chilled water systems at the U.S. port of entry, a critical step in ensuring the proper functioning of the air conditioning. Saoud highlighted the meticulous process of testing under normal and alarm conditions to verify system performance and report any issues for corrective action.
Despite the WDBA’s plan for a spring 2026 opening, uncertainties persist due to the ongoing commissioning work. Saoud remains optimistic that once the commissions are finalized, the bridge’s opening will follow shortly.
Political Controversy
Earlier this year, U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to delay the bridge’s opening stirred political tensions, given Canada’s sole funding of the project in collaboration with Michigan. Windsor’s mayor and former Michigan governor criticized Trump’s actions, labeling them as obstacles to progress.
The Gordie Howe bridge, upon opening, will become the fifth border crossing between Ontario and Michigan, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance connectivity between Windsor and Detroit. The construction, initiated in 2018, is at its final stages, awaiting the completion of remaining systems before the bridge is operational.