After years of construction and several delays, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is expected to officially open to vehicle traffic Monday at noon, marking a major milestone for cross-border travel and trade between Canada and the United States.
Ground was broken on the project in 2018. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Friday in Canada, though U.S. officials did not participate after Canada withdrew from the joint celebration amid tensions over President Donald Trump’s 50% tariff on certain Canadian goods.
Local 4 spoke with several truck drivers ahead of the opening, and many said they were excited to see the bridge finally become a reality.
One driver said he was surprised the opening was happening so soon and hopes to cross the bridge in the near future.
Another said he will likely have to wait because the company he works for recently renewed its agreement to use the Ambassador Bridge.
Still, some truckers believe the new crossing will improve traffic flow and reduce delays at the border.
Another trucker said he had doubted the bridge would ever open after multiple postponed opening dates but is glad the project is finally reaching the finish line.