Detroit, Michigan, October 20, 2025
The Gordie Howe International Bridge, a major cross-border infrastructure project linking Detroit and Windsor, has been delayed and is now expected to open in early next year. The $6.4 billion crossing will connect Interstate 75 to Highway 401 and include a toll-free pedestrian and cyclist path to promote sustainable travel. Construction is largely complete, but final work on the ports of entry and finishing touches has pushed the timeline back. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority says progress is strong, and once operational the bridge will ease congestion, speed trade flows and provide a new international active-transport route.
Detroit, Michigan
Gordie Howe International Bridge Completion Delayed to Early 2026
The Gordie Howe International Bridge, a significant infrastructure project connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, is now expected to open in early 2026. This delay follows ongoing construction efforts and recent developments in the project timeline.
Project Overview
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is a $6.4 billion initiative designed to enhance cross-border trade and alleviate congestion between the United States and Canada. The bridge will span the Detroit River, connecting Detroit’s Interstate 75 to Windsor’s Highway 401, and will feature a dedicated path for pedestrians and cyclists. This path aims to promote green tourism and provide a sustainable travel option between the two countries.
Construction Milestones and Delays
Construction began in 2018, with the bridge deck completed in 2024. However, the project has faced several delays, including a significant setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which pushed the completion date from November 2024 to September 2025. Despite these challenges, the project has made substantial progress, with the final edge girders installed and the bridge deck connected over the Detroit River.
Current Status and Future Plans
As of October 2025, the bridge is 98% complete, with final work on the ports of entry on both sides of the border causing the remaining delays. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) has stated that while the project is progressing well toward the anticipated completion in fall 2025, it is too early to offer a specific opening date.
Impact and Significance
Once operational, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is expected to significantly improve trade efficiency and reduce congestion at existing border crossings. The dedicated pedestrian and cyclist path will also serve as a unique international crossing, promoting sustainable tourism and providing a new avenue for cross-border travel without the need for a vehicle.
Conclusion
The delay in the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge to early 2026 reflects the complexities involved in such a large-scale infrastructure project. While the delay is unfortunate, the bridge’s completion will provide long-term benefits for trade, transportation, and tourism between the United States and Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Gordie Howe International Bridge?
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is a $6.4 billion infrastructure project connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, designed to enhance cross-border trade and alleviate congestion. It features a dedicated path for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting green tourism and sustainable travel between the two countries.
Why has the opening of the bridge been delayed?
The opening has been delayed due to ongoing construction efforts and recent developments in the project timeline. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) has stated that while the project is progressing well toward the anticipated completion in fall 2025, it is too early to offer a specific opening date.
When is the bridge expected to open?
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is now expected to open in early 2026.
What are the benefits of the bridge?
Once operational, the bridge is expected to significantly improve trade efficiency and reduce congestion at existing border crossings. The dedicated pedestrian and cyclist path will also serve as a unique international crossing, promoting sustainable tourism and providing a new avenue for cross-border travel without the need for a vehicle.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the project?
The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions, leading to a delay in the project’s completion from November 2024 to September 2025.
Key Features of the Gordie Howe International Bridge
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $6.4 billion |
| Length | 1.5 miles |
| Height | 150 feet above the Detroit River |
| Completion Date | Early 2026 |
| Pedestrian and Cyclist Path | Dedicated toll-free path for pedestrians and cyclists |
| Connection | Links Detroit’s Interstate 75 to Windsor’s Highway 401 |
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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.