Listen to this article
Estimated 2 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Gordie Howe’s family were the first passenger vehicle to go across the new international border span on Monday, says the Windsor Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA).
Tecumseh trucking company Onfreight Logistics is poised to be the first commercial vehicle to cross.
Murray Howe, representing the Howe family, speaks during an event ahead of the opening of the Gordie Howe bridge, connecting Windsor, Ont., Canada, with Detroit, Mich., U.S., in Windsor, Ont., Canada, July 24, 2026. (Carlos Osorio/Reuters)
As it stands, ceremonies are set for 9:15 a.m. and 12 p.m. Monday.
How normal traffic will begin to flow — and when — remains up in the air.
A bridge service vehicle crosses the Gordie Howe bridge July 26, 2026. (Patrick Morrell/CBC)
Bridge officials say the standard passenger vehicle toll will be $8 ($5.75 US) to cross and $12 ($8.75) per axle for commercial trucks, oversized vehicles and larger passenger vehicles.
The span provides a highway-to-highway connection between Ontario’s Highway 401 and Michigan’s Interstate-75 — with six traffic lanes, 16 toll lanes and 60 Canada and U.S. inspection lanes.
An aerial view of the Gordie Howe International Bridge the day before it opened to traffic in 2026. (Patrick Morrell/CBC)
Walkers and bike riders will be allowed to go over the Detroit River on the span starting Aug. 5.
The one-lane path will accommodate two-way pedestrian traffic. The path is 2.5 kilometres long and 3.6 metres wide and connects into existing local trail networks on either side of the border.
Heavy traffic anticipated
U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s is reminding travellers planning trips across the bridge to be prepared and to anticipate heavy traffic.
“Being prepared will help minimize delays at the port of entry,” the CBP said in a statement.
They say to have applicable travel documents readily available, and for crossers to accurately declare all goods, alcohol, and agriculture items. And that while legal in some states, marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law.
Customs booths at the Gordie Howe International Bridge the day before it was set to open to passenger and commercial vehicles, July 26, 2026. (Patrick Morrell/CBC)