Prime Minister Mark Carney made a significant announcement during his visit to Prince Edward Island on Monday, revealing that tolls on the Confederation Bridge will be reduced, and ferry fares in Eastern Canada will be lowered. Carney expressed his enthusiasm about the day’s developments, emphasizing the positive impact of the changes.
Effective August 1, the toll for crossing the Confederation Bridge, linking P.E.I. and New Brunswick, will decrease from $50.25 to $20. Additionally, transport trucks will now pay a flat fee of $20. However, the costs for cyclists, pedestrians, shuttles, and motorcycles will remain unchanged.
Furthermore, ferry fares for passengers, cars, and commercial traffic on federally supported services in Eastern Canada will be halved. These ferry routes include those between Magdalen Islands, Que., and Souris, P.E.I., Wood Islands, P.E.I., and Caribou, N.S., as well as Saint John, N.B., and Digby, N.S.
Carney highlighted that the announcement will enable more Canadians to explore Atlantic Canada, emphasizing the aim to enhance affordability for both individuals and businesses traveling within the country. The reduction in fares for the ferry service between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador was also confirmed, with Ottawa committing to boosting funding to Marine Atlantic to achieve a 50% price reduction.
Rob Lantz, Premier of P.E.I., expressed satisfaction with the announcement, noting the long-standing efforts to lower fees and the substantial financial relief it will bring to residents. Carney emphasized the economic significance of making travel more affordable, underlining the positive implications for the local economy.
Furthermore, it was disclosed that toll rates on the Confederation Bridge will be frozen for the remaining seven years of the contract with Straight Crossing Bridge Ltd., ensuring continued affordability. The cost adjustments are expected to benefit small to medium-sized enterprises significantly.
The federal government estimates that the reduced tolls and ferry fares will inject approximately $100 million back into the economy annually, which can further stimulate economic growth. The agreements with the bridge and ferry operators will be subject to renegotiation once the current contracts expire.
The move was hailed as a crucial decision by Joanne Thompson, the federal fisheries minister, recognizing the vital role of Marine Atlantic in facilitating transportation and trade for Newfoundland and Labrador. The decision was praised for its positive impact on connectivity, the economy, and families in the region.
Minister of Transport and Internal Trade Chrystia Freeland echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the tangible economic benefits amid challenging times. Carney’s visit to P.E.I. marked the fulfillment of his campaign promise to reduce tolls on the Confederation Bridge and lower ferry rates, aligning with the government’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and affordability in transportation.