Gordie Howe international bridge opens to vehicles after months of cross-border dispute

The Gordie Howe International Bridge is officially open to motorists today, marking a major milestone in Canada-U.S. trade infrastructure after months of political controversy surrounding the project.

The $6.4-billion bridge connects Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, across the Detroit River. The first family to cross the new bridge was the family of Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, whose name the structure carries. Howe’s grandson spoke about the historic experience of driving across the bridge on opening day.

The opening follows a dispute involving U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier questioned the project’s financial arrangements and demanded compensation before allowing the bridge to open. Canada later agreed to adjustments related to revenue sharing between the two countries.

A Canadian ceremony was held last week to celebrate the bridge’s completion, but a planned joint Canada-U.S. celebration was cancelled following Washington’s latest threats of new tariffs on Canadian goods.

U.S. officials said the proposed tariffs were linked to disagreements over provincial restrictions on American alcohol, Canada’s supply-managed dairy system, and vehicle import quotas.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge is expected to become a key transportation link, supporting trade, tourism, and jobs between Canada and the United States.