Gordie Howe Bridge opening pushed to early next year

Detroit, Michigan, October 19, 2025

The Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor is nearing completion, with construction almost finished and final testing and commissioning underway. The cable-stayed crossing will link major highways on both sides, include approach spans and port-of-entry facilities, and aims to improve cross-border trade and daily commutes. Project challenges earlier increased costs and shifted the timeline, but the team has limited schedule impact and is completing community benefit measures. Once fully operational, the bridge is expected to reduce travel times, strengthen regional connectivity, and support local economies on both sides of the border.

Detroit, Michigan

The Gordie Howe International Bridge, connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, is now slated for opening in early 2026, reflecting steady progress in the region’s infrastructure enhancements.

This vital construction project aims to improve connectivity and reduce travel times for commuters across the city, marking a significant step in urban development.

Project Overview

The Gordie Howe International Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge spanning the Detroit River, designed to link Detroit’s Interstate 75 with Windsor’s Highway 401. The project includes the main bridge span, two approach bridges, and port of entry complexes in both the United States and Canada. Construction began in July 2018, with the bridge deck completed by late August 2024. As of October 2025, approximately 98% of the construction work has been completed, with final testing and commissioning underway. The exact opening date will depend on ongoing quality reviews and operational readiness assessments.

Delays and Adjustments

Originally scheduled to open in November 2024, the opening has been delayed to early 2026 due to unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These delays have also increased the project’s cost from $5.7 billion to $6.4 billion. Despite these challenges, the project team has managed to limit the impact on the construction schedule to only 10 months beyond the original contracted completion date.

Community Impact

Once operational, the bridge is expected to significantly enhance cross-border trade and travel, providing a modern and efficient route between the United States and Canada. The project also includes community benefit initiatives on both sides of the border, aiming to support local communities and economies.

Conclusion

The Gordie Howe International Bridge represents a major advancement in regional infrastructure, promising to improve connectivity and economic opportunities for Detroit and Windsor. While the opening has been delayed to early 2026, the project continues to progress toward completion, with final preparations underway to ensure a successful launch.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Key Features of the Gordie Howe International Bridge

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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER

DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.