Travellers anticipating the debut of the Gordie Howe International Bridge will face a delay before utilizing the border passage. Construction is now projected to conclude this year, with an expected unveiling in early 2026, as stated by Heather Grondin, the Windsor Detroit Bridge Authority’s (WDBA) chief relations officer overseeing the initiative.
Initially planned to open by the end of 2024, the bridge spanning approximately 2.5 kilometers across the Detroit River, linking the I-75 with Highway 401, faced postponements to fall 2025 before the current timeline shift. Grondin emphasized the focus on completing construction and advancing testing and commissioning efforts to ensure accuracy before the bridge’s commencement.
The shifting opening dates for the international crossing have sparked concerns among Windsor politicians, with Windsor West Conservative MP Harb Gill emphasizing the bridge’s importance as an economic link for the region. Construction commenced on the six-lane crossing in 2018, fully funded by the Canadian government. Originally estimated at $5.7 billion, the project’s cost escalated to $6.4 billion last January.
Upon completion, the bridge will serve as a third border crossing alongside the Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, both nearly a century old. The new crossing will feature dynamic overhead signage for traffic adjustment, increased inspection lanes, efficient truck processing, and tolling transponder technology capable of moving 400 vehicles per hour through each booth.
In preparation for the bridge’s opening, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has bolstered its staff with an additional 250 officers and initiated training for new officers designated for the project. The agency has also commenced the handover process for the Canadian port of entries earlier this year.
Grondin highlighted ongoing technology testing, traffic analysis at the Canadian Port of Entry, and evaluation of the bridge’s fire suppression system. She confirmed that the bridge construction is 98% complete, with paving, landscaping, and the establishment of five pedestrian bridges on the U.S. side in progress. However, a specific opening date for the bridge remains undisclosed.
