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6d ago

Gordie Howe International Bridge to Open July 27 After U.S.-Backed Toll Deal

U.S. support follows a deal giving Washington input on toll changes, creating a 15-year fund tied to toll profits, requiring U.S. concurrence for major toll increases.

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Under the new agreement, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is now expected to open on July 27.
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Overview

  • Canada and the state of Michigan confirmed late Friday that the Gordie Howe International Bridge will open to the public on July 27 after negotiators resolved the dispute that delayed a June inauguration.
  • Under terms reported by Canadian and U.S. officials, half of certain net toll profits will be diverted into a U.S.-linked 15-year regional development fund and the United States will have input or approval rights for large toll changes.
  • Canada paid the roughly CAN$6.4 billion construction bill and the bridge is jointly owned by Canada and Michigan, with the original cost‑recovery framework for tolls left intact, officials say.
  • The opening follows direct U.S. intervention, including negotiations led by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and comes as congressional inquiries probe contacts between U.S. officials and donors linked to the Moroun family.
  • Officials say the bridge will ease congestion and speed cross‑border trade for automakers and shippers, and observers warn the next developments to watch are full disclosure of the side agreement and the outcome of ongoing oversight probes.