Residents are upset about the postponement of the new Gordie Howe Bridge connecting Windsor and Detroit. Jeremie Charron reports.
WINDSOR, Ont. – Frustration is rising in Windsor after the planned opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge on Friday was called off, leaving the community stuck in a political struggle over this long-awaited border crossing.
For drivers and truckers making their way across the Detroit River, there’s an undeniable situation in Windsor.
On Friday, heavy traffic was pouring off the busy yet aging Ambassador Bridge, while just down the river, the $6.4-billion Gordie Howe stands ready but idle. Brand new border crossing facilities remain empty.
“I was really looking forward to not having to deal with truck traffic every time I come down here,” one Windsor local shared with .
A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Gordie Howe International Bridge that was supposed to happen on Friday was abruptly cancelled.
“Canada and the United States have agreed to postpone the bridge’s opening, taking necessary time to resolve any outstanding issues,” stated a message from the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority Thursday morning.
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‘Stuck in between’: Drivers frustrated by hold-up
checked in with people using the Ambassador who mentioned that this delay is frustrating everyone involved on both sides of the border. “I think we’re caught in between,” said one frequent traveler. “I cross here all the time between both countries, and even truckers are frustrated.” One truck driver talked about ongoing traffic jams and endless delays at the current crossing. “At least an hour wait; it’s been really busy. It’s still quite hectic these days,” they noted. Many residents in Windsor attributed this delay to political tensions. “Trump gets in the way of everything,” remarked one truck driver, while another suggested that leaders could fix things if they focused on what’s best for people. “Honestly, if folks would just set aside their egos and do what’s right for everyone, we’d have a lot less trouble,” said that trucker. The Gordie Howe Bridge is shown under construction between Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, May 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File) The Gordie Howe Bridge is shown between Windsor, Ontario and Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File)‘Political nonsense’: Steel supplier shocked by delay
The frustration is also felt hundreds of kilometers away in Concord, Ont., where Salit Steel provided rebar for this bridge project from facilities across Canada and the U. S. CEO Steven Cohen expressed his belief that this project could have opened months earlier.“From what I understand, it could have been open at least 100 days ago-it’s all a bunch of political nonsense,” Cohen said.
He mentioned how he believed this bridge could represent a stronger link between Canada and America but has instead become a symbol of ongoing disagreements.
“You really have to shake your head and try to figure out why they’re not opening it; it’s certainly not based on logic,” he added.
Prime Minister Mark Carney stated Friday that Trump’s administration requested this delayed opening but didn’t provide details on what specific issues remain unresolved.Tariffs and trade tensions
Cohen shared that his family has lived near borders for generations-crossing back and forth frequently for work or pleasure-and he feels disheartened by how Canada-U. S. relations currently stand. “The U. S. administration seems to be acting purely out of emotion right now-it’s hurting both countries,” said Cohen. “His steel company operates across both countries has been impacted by ongoing trade disputes.” “It’s like playing football where they change rules after every play,” noted Cohen who emphasized how challenging it is to navigate business within steel industry these days. “The rules shift literally week by week; it’s made things incredibly difficult.” “Currently Canadian steel industry faces tariffs from U. S.-upwards of 50 percent-often referred as ‘sectoral tariffs’ or ‘section 232’ duties.”Related Stories
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