There is an opening date for the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
The Associated Press first reported on Friday afternoon that the bridge will open to traffic by the end of July, after Canadian and U.S. government officials reportedly reached an agreement.
The federal government confirmed early Friday evening that the bridge will open on Monday, July 27.
"After years of planning, partnership, and construction, the Gordie Howe International Bridge will soon be opening, providing a new connection for the region, while strengthening one of the world's most important trade corridors," said Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, in a statement. "This nation-building project is a testament to what Canada can accomplish when we come together with a shared vision. Our gratitude goes to all the staff, workers, partners, and community members who were involved. The Gordie Howe International Bridge will create new opportunities, strengthen our economy, and bring economic benefits on both sides of the border for generations to come."
The bridge is jointly owned by the Canadian government and the State of Michigan.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is also looking forward to the opening.
"Thousands of Michigan workers built this critical bridge, which will speed up auto production, lower costs, ease traffic, strengthen agriculture, and give people on both sides of the border better-paying jobs and brighter futures," said Whitmer. "I'm proud to have fought for its opening and congratulate my partners who have worked on this issue alongside me for years. This bridge is a testament to the enduring partnership between Michigan and Canada and what we can get done when we think big and bet on our shared future together."
A ribbon-cutting for the bridge was originally scheduled for last month, and even Prime Minister Mark Carney had said the bridge would open. However, both Canada and the U.S. announced within days that they had agreed to put off the opening.
U.S. President Donald Trump threatened in February to block the opening of the bridge until Canada fully compensated the U.S. for using only Canadian materials. In reality, the bridge was built using material from both countries.
An agreement was reached in 2012 between then-Prime Minister Stephen Harper and then-Governor Rick Snyder. Construction was funded by the Canadian government, covering the bridge, land acquisition on the Detroit side, and the on-ramps from I-75. In return, Canada will receive all of the toll revenue collected.
