Opening of US$5bn Gordie Howe bridge delayed

The main span of the Gordie Howe International Bridge between the US and Canada makes its connection in July 2024. Image: Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority

Citing an analysis by S&P Global Ratings, the project’s contractor missed multiple deadlines to hand over the Canadian port of entry to border authorities. Canada Border Services Agency was originally expected to take possession by April 2025 but has yet to receive access.

US Customs and Border Protection also still requires at least six months for installation and commissioning of systems.

S&P noted that labour shortages and regional competition from large-scale industrial projects contributed to delays.

The Windsor–Detroit Bridge Authority maintains that the project is on track for “fall 2025,” but officials have not committed to a firm opening date. Only 2% of construction remains, including interior finishing work, landscaping, and completion of customs, tolling and security systems. Some paving and signage also remain unfinished on the Michigan-side interchange.

Analysts now consider a further slippage into 2026 “plausible” if border handovers do not occur soon.

The US$4.7 billion project, led by the Bridging North America consortium, began in 2018. The consortia consists of ACS Infrastructure Canada, Fluor Canada, Aecon Construction Group, design partner Aecom Canada, and delivery partner Flatiron Dragados.

WATCH: Gordie Howe Bridge project connects main span The Gordie Howe Bridge main span was connected earlier this week