Gordie Howe International Bridge,new span over Detroit River, is set to open next week after an 18-month delay. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced it Tuesday at a press briefing,confirming a ribbon-cutting Friday . Traffic expected soon after.
Linking Windsor,Ontario,to Detroit,Michigan,this bridge is key for trade between Canada and U.S . Designed to ease congestion at Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor tunnel. In works since 2018,owned by Canada and Michigan .
Named for Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, the bridge faced political hurdles. In February, former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to block it unless Canada ceded half ownership to U.S. federal government. Part of Trump's hardline trade stance during USMCA talks .
Carney called the bridge a cooperation symbol for two nations. “Bridge will open end of week . A symbol, but also fact of cooperation,” he said,noting its importance for travelers and commerce both sides.
Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat,hailed bridge as a “huge boon” for her state, seeing its economic potential. It's especially important for Michigan,a swing state Trump won twice. Former Governor Rick Snyder clarified ownership is split evenly between Canada and Michigan, countering Trump’s claims. Canada funded project, Michigan got share without financial input.
Once operational,Gordie Howe bridge will complement private Ambassador Bridge,busiest crossing between U.S . and Canada,handling 25% of trade. Ambassador Bridge vital for auto sector . Moroun family,who own it, tried to block Gordie Howe bridge in court.
As opening nears, Gordie Howe International Bridge stands to boost trade and ties between Canada and U.S.,despite political drama…
