Carney Says Gordie Howe Bridge Over Detroit River Will Open Despite Trump Threats

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has confirmed that the Gordie Howe International Bridge across the Detroit River will officially open within days, marking a major milestone in North American infrastructure despite earlier political opposition from former US President Donald Trump .

Carney said the long-anticipated bridge linking Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, Michigan is in its final operational phase, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for Friday and traffic expected to begin shortly afterward in mid to late June 2026.

The project, valued at approximately $4.7 billion , has been under construction since 2018 and is designed to significantly ease congestion at the heavily used Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel , two critical trade corridors between Canada and the United States.

The bridge is widely viewed as a strategic economic link supporting cross-border trade, automotive supply chains, and freight movement across one of North America’s busiest commercial routes. Early assessments suggest it could reduce truck delays and deliver major long-term savings for logistics operators.

Trump had previously threatened to block the opening of the bridge, claiming Canada should provide the United States with a greater stake in the project and raising concerns tied to broader trade disputes under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) . His remarks also referenced tariff tensions and alleged unfair trade practices, escalating diplomatic friction between the two countries.

Canadian officials strongly rejected those claims, emphasizing that the project is governed by a joint Canada–Michigan ownership structure , with Canada financing construction costs upfront. The investment is expected to be recovered through toll revenues over time.

The bridge authority and US federal agencies have since confirmed operational readiness, including customs staffing and border inspection systems, effectively clearing the final administrative hurdles. US officials have also acknowledged that no regulatory barriers remain to opening.

US Senator Elissa Slotkin has described the bridge as a “huge economic boost” for Michigan, highlighting its importance for regional employment and trade efficiency. Former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder , who helped negotiate the agreement, reiterated that the bridge represents a balanced partnership between Canada and the United States.

Snyder also clarified that the ownership structure is split 50–50 between Canada and Michigan , countering earlier political claims suggesting full Canadian control. He added that Canada financed construction but will be repaid through toll collections, while both countries retain equal ownership rights.