The Government of Canada and US officials have announced the start of advanced Gordie Howe International Bridge construction.

Gordie Howe International Bridge is a cable-stayed international bridge and will feature six lanes.

It will provide direct connectivity to existing highway networks in Windsor in Canada and Detroit in the US.

The Windsor-Detroit trade corridor is reported to be one of the busiest and most important trade and transportation routes between Canada and the US.

Canada Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Amarjeet Sohi said: “The Gordie Howe International Bridge will play a vital role in supporting and growing the local economies on both sides of the border and will create opportunities for residents and businesses alike.

“The project will also include approach bridges, customs plazas on Canadian and US ports of entry and a toll station on the Canadian side, as well as a Michigan interchange.”

“This project is also an important symbol of our deep friendship and mutually beneficial relationship with the United States and I’m proud to be working towards its completion in partnership with Governor Snyder and the Michigan government.”

The project will also include approach bridges, customs plazas on Canadian and US ports of entry and a toll station on the Canadian side, as well as a Michigan interchange connecting Interstate 75 to the US port of entry.

The main construction work is expected to begin later this year.

Michigan Governor Rick Snyder said: “This is an exciting day for Detroit, Windsor, Michigan, Ontario, the US, and Canada. After more than seven years of hard work, today we broke ground on what will be a thriving legacy named for a legend.

“Gordie Howe represented the best of Canada and the United States. And, thanks to the hard work of many people on both sides of the border, now this bridge to the future will represent our prosperous partnership for generations to come.”

Upon completion, the bridge will ensure people and goods are transported safely between the two countries.