The Seaway International Bridge Corporation, Ltd. - Toll Collection- New North Channel Bridge

CORNWALL, ON, May 15, 2012 /CNW/ - As a follow-up to our recent announcement concerning the location of the existing temporary toll booths and a move to a new plaza to be located on the canal, The Seaway International Bridge Corporation, Ltd. (SIBC) wishes to reinforce the international trade and economic importance of the crossing for the region and the country.

Last night, the city council came out against tolls for motorists travelling the north span of the Seaway International Bridge and the city will now petition the federal government and local MP Guy Lauzon to abolish the collection of tolls on the north span of the new bridge.

SIBC is respectful of the position of the city. "As highlighted by the SIBC General Manager Hendrik Saaltink, "in a 2005 international study, the crossing is important internationally and regionally to both the residents and economy of Eastern Ontario, Quebec, Northern New York State and Akwesasne. On average, The Seaway International Bridge ranks 8th and 20th in terms of the number of passenger and commercial vehicles with approximately $885M carried in trade annually".

The corporation wishes to highlight that the decision to relocate the tolls is purely an operational decision. SIBC is responsible for the safety and operation of this vital economic crossing. As a federal Crown corporation, SIBC must also ensure the financial self-sufficiency of the crossing which has included toll collection since the late 1950s'. Toll revenues are required to cover operating and maintenance expenses.

André Girard
The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited
613-932-3629
www.pontcornwallbridge.ca
[email protected]