The construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge reaches a new phase with the dismantling of cranes.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge project reached a significant milestone with the dismantling of two major tower cranes, crucial for the bridge’s construction. These cranes, operational since 2020, played a vital role in lifting materials for the bridge that is set to be completed by September 2025. With nearly 95% of construction done, preparations for electrical systems and traffic handling are underway, signifying a major boost in cross-border connectivity between Canada and the U.S.
Detroit – The Gordie Howe International Bridge construction has reached a significant milestone with the dismantling of two massive tower cranes, marking a crucial phase in the development of this vital infrastructure project. The brightly colored blue and red cranes, which were instrumental in erecting the 1.5-mile bridge, were dismantled as construction progresses towards its anticipated completion in September 2025.
The cranes, which had been on site since 2020, took three days to assemble and reached a peak height of 797 feet in 2024, in parallel to the ongoing construction of the bridge towers. Throughout their operational period, the cranes were responsible for lifting heavy materials, including rebar, formwork, anchor boxes, and the 216 stay cables that will ultimately support the bridge deck.
The dismantling process, which is ongoing, is being conducted by a single crew using a 600-ton crawler crane equipped with a 541-foot boom. The red crane was fully dismantled in May 2025, while the blue crane is expected to be completely removed by the end of June 2025. The construction team is now focused on various tasks to prepare the bridge for its future use, including the installation of electrical, drainage, and fire suppression systems.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is being built at a cost of $5.7 billion and will stand 720 feet tall, with a deck height of 150 feet above the Detroit River. Once completed, it is set to become the largest land port along the Canadian and U.S. border and will rank among the top 10 longest bridges in North America. The crane colors were purposefully selected to reflect the flags of the two countries, with red representing Canada and blue representing the United States.
As of June 2025, nearly 95% of the construction has been completed. Current activities involve the installation of barriers, signage, lighting, pavement markings, and a multi-use path for pedestrians and cyclists. The system and processes necessary for the bridge’s operation are also being developed and tested, engage first responders and transportation agencies from both countries in the process.
Structures at the ports of entry for both the United States and Canada are already complete, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure will be ready for future traffic. Over the past six years, the bridge deck was constructed, achieving full connection by August 2024. The project is primarily financed by the Canadian federal government and is expected to compete with the privately owned Ambassador Bridge.
Once operational, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is expected to accommodate approximately 6,000 commuters daily from Ontario to Detroit, potentially handling around 60% of the traffic currently utilizing the Ambassador Bridge. The bridge will feature six traffic lanes and provide a toll-free option for pedestrians and cyclists, further enhancing cross-border connectivity.
As the completion date approaches, preparations are already underway to effectively promote this new bridge and to inform motorists of essential details prior to its opening. The new infrastructure will serve as a critical connection point, joining the Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel as a third local connection between the two countries.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is not only a major engineering feat but also a reflection of the ongoing collaboration between the United States and Canada, aiming to facilitate trade and travel across the Detroit River.
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