Excitement is building for the Gordie Howe International Bridge project team as they begin the final steps to connect the bridge deck over the Detroit River. With 26 metres/85 feet remaining, the same width as an official NHL rink, it is anticipated that the two sides will connect at the end of June 2024. 

Over the next four-to-six weeks, bridge enthusiasts from land and the river will observe a multi-step process leading up to the bridge deck connection. Crews must install one more segment on the U.S.side that measures 15 metres/49 feet before work starts on the final segment, known as the mid-span closure. Once connected, the bridge deck spanning the distance between the two iconic towers will measure 853 metres/0.53 miles making it the longest main span of any cable-stayed bridge in North America and the tenth longest in the world. It will also be the longest composite steel and concrete bridge deck for any cable-stayed bridge in the world.  

Even though it will appear the bridge is completed, there is still plenty of work remaining before the bridge opens in fall 2025. Crews will stress stay cables and install electrical, fire suppression and drainage systems, barriers, signage, lighting, deck paving, and pavement markings and complete the multi-use path.

 “Achieving the bridge deck connection is monumental in the progress on the Gordie Howe International Bridge project, says Charl van Niekerk, CEO Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority. “This new bridge is the physical representation of the international cooperation that exists between the neighbouring communities in Windsor and Detroit, throughout Ontario and Michigan, and across North America. After years of planning and construction, we remain on course to open the bridge in fall 2025, and, with that, create new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity” 

 Source:  Gordie Howe International Bridge May 14, 2024 news release