The Gordie Howe International Bridge project has reached a major milestone with the removal of its two towering construction cranes, marking one of the final stages of work on the long-anticipated international crossing.
The cranes, which soared nearly 800 feet above the Detroit River, were first installed in 2020 and gradually grew in height to support the rising bridge towers, now completed at 722 feet. Their removal comes as the bridge enters its final phase, with fewer than 5% of construction tasks remaining.
When finished, the bridge’s main span will measure 0.53 miles, making it the longest cable-stayed span in North America and among the longest worldwide. Construction is expected to wrap up by September.
Current efforts focus on completing vital systems, including lighting, drainage, fire suppression and signage. Crews are also finalizing a multi-use path and work on the bridge approaches that will connect to ports of entry in both Canada and the U.S.
On the Canadian side, construction continues on 11 structures and multiple inspection lanes. In the U.S., progress is ongoing across 13 buildings and 36 primary inspection lanes.
Once structural work concludes, agencies will begin outfitting the border facilities ahead of the bridge’s official opening.
Source: Detroit Press, Mlive.com
