Detroit-Windsor Gordie Howe Bridge faces new schedule shift into next year

The Gordie Howe International Bridge, connecting Detroit and Windsor, will not open as expected in late 2025, with project officials now indicating the crossing is likely to begin operations in early 2026. Local media reported the updated timeline following confirmation from project stakeholders.

Construction of the steel and cable-stay bridge is nearing completion, with the majority of structural components already installed and connected. However, officials caution that additional tasks remain, including final systems integration, finishing works, and comprehensive testing across both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the project.

A key factor in the delay involves the handover and operational readiness of border processing facilities. Customs, immigration, and security infrastructure on both sides must be fully functional before the bridge can open to public traffic. The complexity of coordinating multiple government agencies, software systems, and security protocols has contributed to the postponement.

While the structural framework is largely in place, installation of technology systems, including tolling, surveillance, customs processing, and ancillary infrastructure, requires precise calibration. Any misalignment could undermine operational integrity.

Beyond technical work, the delay highlights the challenge of cross-jurisdictional infrastructure projects. Beyond construction, functionality depends heavily on coordination between national, provincial/state, and municipal bodies. Delays in bureaucratic, regulatory, or interagency coordination often ripple into project timelines.

The $5.7 billion project began construction in December 2020 and is expected to be the largest cable-stayed bridge span in North America upon completion.