Canada has officially opened a new land border crossing along one of the busiest Canada-U.S. trade and travel routes. The Gordie Howe International Bridge began operating on July 27, 2026, offering travellers and commercial vehicles another way to cross between Ontario and Michigan.

The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority confirmed the opening in a news release published on July 24, 2026. The bridge crosses the Detroit River & creates a third border crossing between Ontario & Michigan. Moreover, it joins the Ambassador Bridge & the Windsor–Detroit Tunnel, which are among the busiest border crossings in North America. 

The Gordie Howe International Bridge was built to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion along this important transportation corridor. Long waiting times have often affected travellers and businesses using the Ambassador Bridge, especially during busy travel periods. The new crossing is expected to make border travel smoother while supporting trade between Canada and the United States.

The bridge and its border facilities will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Moreover, it is open to passenger vehicles, motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs), and commercial trucks.

The new port of entry also includes dedicated express lanes for members of the Trusted Travellers Program (NEXUS) and approved commercial carriers using the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program. These lanes are expected to speed up border clearance for eligible travellers and transport companies.

Beginning August 5, pedestrians and cyclists will also be able to use the bridge through a separate multi-use pathway that is completely separated from vehicle traffic. This makes the Gordie Howe International Bridge the first Windsor-Detroit border crossing designed to accommodate non-motorized travellers.

Passenger vehicles will pay a toll of CAD 8 (USD 5.75) to cross the bridge. Large commercial trucks, oversized vehicles, and larger passenger vehicles will pay CAD 12 (USD 8.75). The walking and cycling path will remain free to use.

According to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Gordie Howe International Bridge is now Canada’s largest and most technologically advanced land border crossing. Modern inspection facilities and updated border technology are expected to improve the movement of both people and goods across the international border.

The bridge officially opens after more than two decades of planning and cooperation between Canadian and U.S. authorities. It is jointly owned by the Government of Canada and the State of Michigan.

Although the bridge was originally expected to open on June 12, disagreements over toll revenue arrangements delayed the launch. The official opening ceremony took place on July 24, without representatives from the United States government.

The bridge honours Gordie Howe, one of Canada’s greatest hockey players, whose legendary career was closely linked with the Detroit Red Wings.

Travellers planning to use the new crossing can check live border wait times through the official CBSA border services website before travelling. Anyone entering Canada must also carry the required travel documents and meet all entry requirements.

With the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, Canada now has 118 land border ports of entry. The new crossing will help improve transportation, trade, and travel between Canada and the United States.

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