Authorities back down on Bridge Bus plan

The Bridge Bus will accept Canadian currency after all, SooToday News has learned.

Meeting today at the Ojibway Hotel in Sault, Michigan, the Joint International Bridge Authority (JIBA) decided to back down on its plan to accept only U.S. currency after July 1.

Last night, Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario) City Council expressed opposition to the plan.

About 80 percent of passengers on the bus are Canadian. Until now, both Canadians and Americans have been allowed to pay the $1 fare in their own currency.

Canadian fare will be $1.50

Today, JIBA decided to retain the $1 fare in U.S. funds, but $1.50 Canadian will also be accepted.

The seniors/disabled fare will be 50 cents U.S., or 75 cents Canadian.

Notices of the increased Canadian fares will be posted in the bus and will take effect July 15.

Spencer Nebel, City Manager of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, was also opposed to the plan to refuse Canadian currency.

"Virtually every business in both Saults accepts U.S. and Canadian currency," Nebel said. "The International Bridge accepts U.S. and Canadian currency. Having the Bridge Bus only take U.S. currency is not an acceptable proposition."

Passengers pay just 11 percent of operating cost

At today's meeting, JIBA members confirmed their understanding of the importance of the Bridge Bus to both communities.

They nonetheless expressed concern about the high level of subsidization needed.

Just 11 percent of the operating costs are covered by fares.

This year, the Bridge Bus will receive a direct cash subsidy of $40,000 from JIBA.

The bus is also allowed free passage on the bridge, a perquisite worth $45,000 a year.

JIBA also loses $4,000 annually on currency exchange.

Authority members indicated today they'll continue to look for ways to cut operating costs while maximizing revenue.

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