The longest suspension bridge in North America

The Gordie Howe International Bridge on the Detroit River is 2.5 km long and will have 6 lanes. After nearly 4 years of construction, the longest suspension bridge in North America is nearing completion and is expected to open in 2025. Providing an additional route connecting the US and Canada, the bridge has a main span of 853 m when completed. Designed by AECOM architect Erik Behrens in collaboration with several organizations, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is the 10th longest suspension bridge in the world. It also has the longest reinforced concrete bridge deck among suspension bridges after completion. Named after Canadian hockey star Gordie Howe, the tower base of the bridge is designed to evoke the curve of a puck.

To date, 27 bridge deck segments have been installed, and only a small gap connecting Windsor, Ontario, with Detroit, Michigan remains. The final sections of the bridge deck are being added gradually and will be installed over the next few weeks. The bridge features two towers with a height of 220 and an arrangement of 216 cables spread out in a fan shape to support the bridge deck across the river. The secondary span on each side of the river is supported by cables and pillars.

While the six-lane bridge is nearing structural completion, engineers still have work to do. The cable car needs to be properly tensioned, and pavement, barriers, multi-use paths for cyclists and pedestrians, and an electrical system need to be installed. The bridge is expected to open to traffic in 2025.