International Bridge tolls increase next week

NEWS RELEASE
INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE ADMINISTRATION
******************************
International Bridge commercial customers paying Canadian currency will see toll rates change next week due to the current value of the Canadian dollar. The commercial vehicle tolls paid in Canadian dollars will increase from the current $6.60 per axle to $6.65. Canadian currency auto and commuter discount rates remain unchanged.

Commercial rates in U.S. dollars remain unchanged at $5 per axle.

These changes, effective Tuesday, Oct. 1, are a result of the mandated exchange review conducted by bridge officials twice each year. Commercial traffic makes up about 7 per cent of the annual crossings and 36 per cent of bridge revenue; commuter and auto combine for about 93 per cent of the yearly crossings.

The operation and maintenance of the International Bridge is totally self-funded, primarily through bridge tolls. It is not subsidized by any state, provincial or federal government entity. Bridge operations have a substantial economic impact on the surrounding communities.

"Maintenance and operations for our 57-year-old bridge is our top priority. Approximately $6.2 million of toll revenue is dedicated to that purpose and ensures the bridge is open to the public 365 days a year," said Peter Petäinen, general manager of the International Bridge Administration (IBA). "We connect and support the economies on both sides of the border, and bridge revenue annually goes back into the local economies, split equally between both Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., and Sault Ste. Marie, Mich."

Canadian dollar rates fluctuate up or down every six months depending on the average six-month exchange rate. To maintain compliance with the bridge authority's joint Canada/U.S. operating agreement, the IBA reviews and adjusts the rates each April and October.

More information, including all vehicle toll rates and details of the frequent user "prox card" program, can be found on the IBA website and here.

Follow the IBA on Twitter. 

******************************