The Gordie Howe International Bridge, linking Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, has been nearly finished since February. However, a significant lawsuit opposing Canada’s decision to construct the bridge may not go to trial until 2027 or 2028, as revealed in a recent federal briefing note. The note, prepared for federal Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson by deputy minister Paul Halucha, was heavily redacted and dated February 17, 2026. It was obtained by CBC News through an access-to-information request.
According to the document, construction of the bridge is almost complete, with final tasks such as commissioning, testing of critical systems, and pending certifications remaining. The opening is contingent on final approvals and readiness from Canadian and U.S. agencies.
The briefing note highlighted that the bridge has faced 22 legal challenges from the private owners of the Ambassador Bridge over the past two decades. Of these challenges, Canada has successfully defended against 19, with three unresolved cases, including a principal lawsuit set for trial in late 2027 or early 2028.
One of the active legal disputes involves the Canadian Transit Company, owned by the Ambassador Bridge operators, claiming historical rights protection dating back to 1921. They argue that the construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge violated these rights.
Infrastructure Canada, responsible for the bridge, declined to comment on the ongoing legal battles. The construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is seen as a crucial step in providing additional capacity in a region traditionally dominated by the privately owned Ambassador Bridge.
Laurie Trautman, from the Border Policy Research Institute at Western Washington University, emphasized the economic and political complexities involved in building cross-border infrastructure. She noted the challenges faced, particularly amid strained Canada-U.S. relations, pointing out the significance of the new bridge in enhancing trade flows and easing congestion.
The document indicated that the economic competition over the crossing has already begun, with tolls at the Gordie Howe International Bridge set at $8.75 US per axle, significantly lower than the $20 US per axle charged at the Ambassador Bridge. This move is expected to shift traffic patterns in the Windsor-Detroit corridor, redirecting commercial and passenger traffic to the new bridge due to its modern infrastructure and direct highway connections.
Truck industry representatives, such as Stephen Lakowski, President of the Ontario Trucking Association and Canadian Trucking Alliance, expressed anticipation for the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge. They highlighted the cost-saving benefits for carriers and the improved logistical efficiency compared to the Ambassador Bridge.
Despite delays and budget overruns, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) remains committed to opening the Gordie Howe International Bridge in the spring. Infrastructure Canada, overseeing the WDBA, reiterated the project’s importance as a vital economic link between the two countries, promising updates as progress continues.