The Gordie Howe International Bridge officially opened Friday with politicians casting the $6.4 billion crossing as a symbol of Canada’s enduring economic partnership with the U.S., despite the fresh U.S. tariff threats. 

The 2.5 kilometre cable-stayed bridge linking Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, Michigan is expected to open to traffic Monday.

“This bridge is an incredible symbol of the potential and opportunities that await workers and families on both sides of the Detroit River,” Ontario Premier Doug Ford said. 

Government officials said it will ease congestion at one of North America’s busiest commercial crossings, and is estimated to contribute about $1.3 billion to Windsor’s economy. 

The event also saw appearances from Housing Minister Gregor Robertson, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, Canada ambassador to the U.S. Mark Wiseman, as well as the Howe family members, Murray Howe. 

But the celebration unfolded against the backdrop of an increasingly strained Canada-U.S. relationship. 

Earlier this week, Trump announced additional 50 per cent tariffs on a range of Canadian products, including wine, dairy products, cement and hockey sticks. The duties are scheduled to take effect Aug. 19 and will apply even to covered goods that comply with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement. 

BACKGROUND: U.S. hits Canada with steep tariffs on range of products, including hockey sticks 

Ottawa subsequently withdrew invitations for American representatives to take part in what had originally been planned as a joint opening ceremony. 

As the opening ceremony was underway, Trump took to social media to tout receiving a better deal from Canada. 

“Canada disinvited the United States of America to the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge, which is fine, considering they are paying substantial TARIFFS to the United States,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. 

During the ceremony, Ford acknowledged the strained relationship between the two countries. 

“Our relationship has been challenged over the last few years, and President Trump has threatened new tariffs just this month, but Team Canada is never being more united,” Ford said. 

He reiterated that Ontario would be prepared to respond to any new American tariffs, but noted that Canadians and Americans are ultimately “better off working together” rather than “standing apart.” 

The bridge’s opening had already been delayed while Canada and the U.S. negotiated outstanding issues surrounding toll revenues and governance. 

Canada financed the bridge’s construction, though the bridge is co-owned with Michigan. 

READ MORE: Carney says he could have been more clear about Gordie Howe bridge deal with U.S. 

Under the new agreement, half of the bridge’s net operating profits will go toward a U.S.-run regional economic development initiative for 15 years, while the remaining half will go to Canada.