Celebration of the Gordie Howe International Bridge in Canada

After years of planning and hard work, a significant milestone was reached on the west Windsor riverfront this past Friday.

Hundreds of invited guests came together at the brand new Windsor entry point to honor the Canadian dedication of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.

Officials from the federal government, Ontario government, and City of Windsor participated in a ceremonial ribbon cutting for the 2.5-kilometre bridge, which stood tall in the background.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford, donning a red maple leaf jersey, acknowledged the countless Canadian and American workers who contributed to building this cable-stay suspension bridge and emphasized the strong friendship between both countries.

Ford also mentioned how this bridge will create new opportunities to enhance trade between them.

“This bridge is an incredible symbol of the potential and opportunities that await workers and families on both sides of the Detroit River,” said Ford. “When we work together across borders, just look at the relationship we enjoy.”

A smiling Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens reflected on the groundbreaking ceremony back in 2018. Standing here seven-and-a-half years later, he discussed some challenges faced during construction.

“This bridge has risen up against ever-shifting backdrops of uncertainty, amidst a global pandemic that made crossing the border impossible, against a trade war that’s amplified all that this bridge stands for,” said Dilkens.

Minister of Infrastructure Gregor Robertson represented Ottawa alongside Canadian Ambassador to the U. S. Mark Wiseman, who humorously noted it would be his only public appearance wearing a Detroit Red Wings jersey.

The bridge honors Saskatchewan native and Detroit Red Wings legend Gordie Howe, with members of his family present for this special event.

Local MPPs Andrew Dowie and Lisa Gretzky were also there, along with most members of Windsor City Council as well as mayors and deputy mayors from all municipalities in Windsor-Essex.

“The vibe here is so great; everybody is so positive and happy to be here. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced anything to this degree. It’s patriotic; we’re proud of how far we’ve come, and that we can celebrate as a country and as a region; it’s incredible,” said Warden Hilda Mac Donald.

Dignitaries including Premier Doug Ford, Essex County Warden Hilda Mac Donald, and Murray Howe-Gordie Howe’s son-were ready to cut the ribbon at the dedication ceremony for the Gordie Howe International Bridge on July 24, 2026. Photo by Maureen Revait.