Gordie Howe Bridge Opening Delayed Amid US Demands

The inauguration of a vital cross-border bridge connecting Canada and the US over the Detroit River, a project previously targeted by Donald Trump, has been put on hold due to "outstanding issues".

Ahead of a planned ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority confirmed the delay, stating that "Canada and the United States have agreed to delay the opening of the bridge, taking the necessary time to resolve any outstanding issues."

The Gordie Howe International Bridge, a joint venture between Canada and Michigan, had been slated to open to traffic later this month.

The bridge's future had been uncertain for months after Trump, a Republican, in February insisted Canada cede at least half its ownership stake to the US federal government, alongside other undisclosed demands, amidst his broader disputes over cross-border trade.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney had hinted at a potential delay Wednesday, though he sought to minimize any apprehension.

"There is no big drama. If it takes a little longer it will take a little bit longer, but this will benefit Canadians, Americans, business, tourists, residents for decades and decades to come," Carney said on his way into Parliament.

Invitations for the bridge's inauguration were dispatched this week, following discussions between Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles.

"This project is a powerful example of bipartisan and international cooperation, and the governor looks forward to attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony when it happens," a statement from Whitmer spokesperson Bobby Leddy said.

Connecting Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, the bridge is poised to become a crucial economic artery between the two nations. It honours the late Canadian hockey legend, who dedicated 25 seasons to the Detroit Red Wings.

The construction, negotiated by Rick Snyder, then-Republican governor of Michigan, was funded by Canada to alleviate congestion at the existing Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor tunnel. Work commenced in 2018.