Ontario’s leader urges Canadians and the Prime Minister not to yield to Donald Trump’s threats of impeding the opening of the Gordie Howe bridge.
Doug Ford emphasized the need to stand firm against President Trump’s actions during a statement on Tuesday morning, questioning the sudden urgency in 2017 to advance the bridge project. Ford stressed the mutual economic benefits for both the American and Canadian economies from the bridge’s completion.
President Trump’s recent statement warned that the bridge would not open until the United States is adequately compensated and treated fairly by Canada. Ford rebutted Trump’s claims of minimal U.S. involvement in the bridge project, pointing out that 25% of American-produced concrete was used in construction.
Ford emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the U.S., stressing that the bridge’s completion is crucial for economic growth and job creation in North America.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge project, jointly owned by Canada and Michigan, is set to open in early 2026, according to the Windsor Detroit Bridge Authority. The project, funded by Canadian taxpayers at $6.4 billion, aims to recoup costs through tolls, with revenue sharing arrangements with Michigan.
The new bridge will divert traffic away from populated areas, linking Highway 401 and the I-75 in Michigan directly. Despite several delays, the opening is now scheduled for early 2026, following demands for transparency from officials.
Former Michigan Governor and U.S. Ambassador to Canada, James Blanchard, dismissed Trump’s threats as baseless, highlighting the bridge’s significance for trade and employment in the region.
A union representing laborers on the bridge criticized Trump’s remarks as divisive and emphasized the collaborative nature of cross-border infrastructure projects for enhancing economic ties and business competitiveness.