Officials optimistic bridge bus will survive

International Bridge officials are optimistic the bridge bus will get yet another reprieve, allowing it to continue operating when its current funding arrangement expires later this month.

The bridge bus was originally scheduled to discontinue service on April 1 of last year, but was granted a two-month funding extension and then a six-nonth extension.

Last November, the Joint International Bridge Authority's board ordered an end to the practice of subsidizing bus operations out of bridge toll revenues, arguing that rider fares were providing only 10 percent of the US$120,000 cost of operating the bridge bus.

After a joint meeting of officials from the Ontario and Michigan Saults, the following news release was issued by Phil Becker, general manager of the International Bridge Adminstration:

**************************************************************** Successful stakeholder meeting may lead to continued bridge bus service in Sault Ste. Marie

September 2 - The International Bridge Administration today announced a successful meeting of five key stakeholders regarding the future of the bridge bus service.

All parties agreed the bridge bus was important to both communities and provides a valuable service.

The groups also agreed to work together to find a solution allowing the bridge bus operation to continue beyond the end of the month.

Key stakeholders include the cities of Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario and Michigan, Lake Superior State University, Michigan Department of Transportation and the Joint International Bridge Authority/International Bridge Administration.

"Today's meeting is another step in the right direction," said Phil Becker, IBA General Manager.

"We're hoping for a positive outcome before the September 30, 2003 deadline."

Historically, the JIBA has provided an annual subsidy for operation of the bridge bus.

Unless an equitable local cost-sharing agreement is in place by the end of September 2003, the JIBA will terminate its subsidy and the bridge bus service will be discontinued.

The bridge bus carries approximately 17,000 riders annually between the twin Saults.

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