The Gordie Howe International Bridge, linking Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, has been deemed “essentially complete” as of February. However, a significant lawsuit contesting Canada’s decision to construct the bridge may not go to trial until 2027 or 2028, according to a recently obtained federal briefing note.
The briefing note, dated February 17, 2026, and heavily redacted, was prepared by deputy minister Paul Halucha for federal Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson. It was obtained by CBC News through an access-to-information request.
According to the document, the construction of the GHIB is nearly finished, with only final tasks such as commissioning and testing of critical systems remaining. The opening is pending final certifications and coordinated readiness by Canadian and U.S. agencies.
The note was drafted shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly threatened to halt the bridge’s opening unless the U.S. received a share, despite Canada funding and building the bridge. The document also mentions that legal battles with the owners of the Ambassador Bridge have been ongoing for over two decades, with Canada prevailing in 19 out of 22 cases.
One significant remaining legal challenge, scheduled for trial in late 2027 or early 2028, involves the Canadian Transit Company asserting a historical right to protection against competing crossings. The lawsuit contends that the construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge violated this right.
Infrastructure Canada, responsible for the bridge project, declined to comment on the ongoing legal disputes or provide an exact opening date. However, it is anticipated that the new crossing will impact traffic patterns and provide toll relief, with tolls set to be significantly lower compared to the Ambassador Bridge.
Truckers eagerly await the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, as it is expected to reduce costs and improve logistical efficiency for carriers operating between Ontario and Michigan. Despite delays and cost overruns, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority remains committed to opening the bridge in the spring.
The economic and political complexities surrounding the construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge highlight the challenges of developing major cross-border infrastructure projects in the region.