The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) has launched a search for a new CEO following the resignation of Charl van Niekerk. The departure occurs just weeks before U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to prevent the opening of the new Gordie Howe Bridge linking Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit.
Reasons for Accelerated Exit
Van Niekerk, who joined the WDBA as CEO in July 2023, always planned to leave after construction wrapped up, targeting late 2026. However, personal circumstances sped up his timeline.
“My departure was slightly accelerated due to personal reasons: My home and family are in Toronto, and as you can imagine, it is not feasible to totally relocate a family to a different city for a limited term contract,” van Niekerk stated.
He commuted weekly to Windsor, which meant spending weekdays away from his then five-year-old son. “These are the formative years, and I want to be more engaged,” he added.
New Role and Interim Leadership
Van Niekerk has returned to provincial public service at Metrolinx, Ontario’s transportation agency, starting in January. This move brings him closer to home.
The WDBA website now lists Chuck Andary as interim CEO and chief legal officer.
Bridge Context and Tensions
The $6-billion-plus Gordie Howe Bridge, fully funded by the Canadian government, faces uncertainty amid Trump’s threats to block its opening, heightening cross-border strains. Democrats in Washington are probing the situation surrounding these statements.
Established in 2012, the WDBA operates as a not-for-profit Crown corporation, reporting to Parliament through the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.
