Detroit, Michigan, November 14, 2025
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is approaching full completion after millions of construction hours, driven by large-scale engineering and cross-border coordination. The cable-stayed span features North America’s longest main span and is now in final finishing stages, including lighting, drainage, fire suppression and signage work. The project includes a toll-free multi-use path for pedestrians and cyclists and links to new ports of entry on both sides of the river. Once open, the bridge is expected to reduce congestion at existing crossings, streamline trade and travel, and support regional industries reliant on efficient cross-border logistics.
Detroit, Michigan
The Gordie Howe International Bridge, connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, is nearing its completion after utilizing 19 million work hours, with an expected opening in early 2026. This infrastructure project aims to improve cross-border connectivity and stimulate economic growth between the United States and Canada.
Project Overview
Construction of the bridge commenced in July 2018 to serve as a new crossing over the Detroit River. The project faced delays primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which shifted the anticipated completion date from November 2024 to early 2026. The estimated total cost has also increased from CA$5.7 billion to CA$6.4 billion.
Current Status
As of November 2025, the bridge stands at 98% completion, featuring a main span of 0.53 miles, making it the longest cable-stayed span in North America. Crews are currently focused on final touches, including the installation of lighting, drainage, fire suppression, and signage, while also completing a multi-use path and linking the bridge to several ports of entry in both Canada and the U.S.
Economic Impact
Once operational, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is set to alleviate congestion at existing border crossings, facilitating improved trade and travel efficiency between the two nations. This enhancement is expected to drive economic activities, particularly benefiting sectors such as automotive manufacturing that depend heavily on cross-border logistics.
Community Benefits
The bridge project comprises a toll-free path for pedestrians and cyclists, thereby promoting sustainable transportation solutions. It also involves community benefit initiatives on both sides of the border, designed to uplift local communities and improve the living standards for residents.
Background
Naming the bridge after the iconic Canadian hockey player Gordie Howe honors his legacy. It represents the first new crossing between Ontario and Michigan in over 60 years and marks a significant development in bilateral infrastructure, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the Windsor-Detroit trade corridor.
Conclusion
The anticipated completion of the Gordie Howe International Bridge signifies a crucial development in cross-border infrastructure, promising not only improved connectivity but also economic benefits for both Detroit and Windsor. Despite earlier delays, the project is progressing well and is on schedule to open in early 2026, providing enhanced trade routes and transportation alternatives for both countries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Gordie Howe International Bridge?
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is a new crossing over the Detroit River connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, designed to enhance cross-border connectivity and economic growth between the United States and Canada.
When is the bridge expected to open?
The bridge is expected to open in early 2026, after experiencing delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the current completion status of the bridge?
As of November 2025, the bridge is 98% complete, with the main span measuring 0.53 miles, making it the longest cable-stayed span in North America.
How will the bridge impact the economy?
Once operational, the bridge is expected to alleviate congestion on existing border crossings, facilitating smoother trade and travel between the two countries, thereby bolstering economic activities, particularly in sectors like automotive manufacturing.
What community benefits are associated with the bridge?
The bridge includes a toll-free path for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting sustainable transportation options. The project also encompasses community benefit initiatives on both sides of the border, aiming to support local communities and enhance the quality of life for residents.
Why is the bridge named after Gordie Howe?
The bridge is named after the renowned Canadian hockey player Gordie Howe, honoring his legacy and contributions to the sport.
Key Features of the Gordie Howe International Bridge
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 0.53 miles (main span) |
| Completion Status | 98% complete as of November 2025 |
| Opening Date | Early 2026 |
| Cost | CA$6.4 billion |
| Community Benefits | Toll-free path for pedestrians and cyclists, community initiatives on both sides of the border |
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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.