Gordie Howe International Bridge slated to open July 27 after U.S.-Canada agreement
Canadian officials announced that the Gordie Howe International Bridge will open to traffic on July 27, following a new toll-revenue and development agreement with the United States.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is set to open to traffic on July 27, according to a statement from Canadian officials. The opening follows a recently reached agreement between Canada, the state of Michigan and the U.S. government that outlines toll governance, revenue sharing and a 15-year economic development fund tied to bridge profits.
The U.S. will receive half of the toll revenue and will have veto power over any toll increase exceeding 10% of current rates. Commercial shippers enrolling in the bridge’s “Breakaway” discount program will be charged $6.90 per axle.
Canadian Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Gregor Robertson said the bridge will strengthen cross-border economies for generations, while Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer described it as a “great deal for our state” that will create jobs and improve trade.
Negotiations have been led by U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra since a June 11 opening was cancelled. The agreement also includes collaborative adjustments to toll rates and provisions to prevent a surge of Chinese-manufactured vehicles entering the United States.
The bridge, a $4.7 billion, six-lane span, has been delayed for months amid political disputes, but officials said the current talks have resolved the stalemate and an official opening announcement will follow.