The Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge, a vital connection between Michigan and Ontario, is experiencing a significant decline in traffic and associated commerce due to recently imposed tariffs by the U.S. government. In late June, about 1,100 participants took part in the annual International Bridge Walk, a tradition celebrating the relationship between the twin cities, which are often referred to as one family. However, rising tensions stemming from U.S. tariff policies have cast a cloud over this event.

Impact of Tariffs on Commerce

Recent figures from the International Bridge Administration indicate that the Sault area suffered an estimated loss of at least $82.9 million in local spending last year, split between $62.7 million on the Michigan side and $20.2 million on the Ontario side. This figure is attributed to a 24% decrease in crossings, with 270,000 fewer vehicles traveling across the bridge in 2025 compared to the previous year, significantly impacting local businesses that rely on Canadian visitors.

A new series of tariffs, including a 50% increase on various Canadian goods and an additional 10% tariff, were enacted by the Trump administration in response to what the White House termed “Canada’s discriminatory treatment of American products.” As Canadian visitors curtail travel to the U.S., local business owners are voicing concerns about declining revenues. Wilda Hopper, co-owner of Bird’s Eye Outfitters, reported a near 27% drop in business compared to the previous summer, attributing the decline partly to the significant reduction of Canadian shoppers.

Furthermore, U.S. Congressman Jack Bergman, who represents the area, has faced criticism for his lack of public engagement regarding the impact of tariffs on his constituents. Bergman has not addressed this issue in press releases or public statements since the tariffs were introduced, despite calls from residents for clarity and support. Meanwhile, both Michigan senators, Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin, have voiced their challenges to the Trump administration’s approaches, emphasizing the need for stable trade relationships with Canada.

The situation is further complicated by a decline in cross-border travel that extends beyond commerce; Canadians are significantly reducing visits for activities such as shopping and family gatherings. This shift has been described as a type of boycott in response to U.S. federal policies, according to geographer Michael Broadway, who noted that ordinary citizens are expressing their opinions through their travel choices.

Overall, the ramifications of the U.S.-Canada trade relationship continue to affect communities on both sides of the border. The Gordie Howe bridge was recently opened, but its significance is overshadowed by the ongoing tariff disputes and the broader implications for commerce and tourism in the Sault Ste. Marie area.

Why It Matters

The ongoing decrease in cross-border traffic is impacting local economies significantly, particularly in regions like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. As businesses struggle with reduced customer bases and increasing operational costs, the long-term economic health of these areas could be jeopardized, stressing the importance of constructive international relations and trade agreements.