Gordie Howe International Bridge opening delayed, bridge official says

Sources previously told CBC a ribbon-cutting was planned for Friday

Canada and the United States have agreed to delay the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, according to the interim chief executive 0fficer and chief legal officer of the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA).

Chuck Andary's statement was posted to the bridge's website Thursday morning.

“The Gordie Howe International Bridge will be a vital economic link for Canada and the United States," he said.

"As we work towards an opening date, we are taking a collaborative approach, reflecting our shared ambition for this trade corridor.

"Canada and the United States have agreed to delay the opening of the bridge, taking the necessary time to resolve any outstanding issues. We appreciate the efforts of workers on both sides of the border to get the bridge to its current state of readiness.”

Sources had previously told CBC a ribbon-cutting was planned for the bridge for Friday.

The Bridge Authority confirmed to CBC Thursday morning that the Friday event is no longer going ahead.

Mayor Drew Dilkens posted on X.com Thursday morning saying "Although we would all like the Gordie Howe bridge to open, Canada need not fall on bent knee to make it happen. Get us a great trade deal Mark Carney!"

Heather Kitching reports local news for CBC stations across Ontario and the North. You can reach her at heather.kitching@cbc.ca.