Over the course of a year, millions of vehicles can cross the borders between the United States and Canada. Each time a vehicle crosses that border from the American side, a toll is collected.
The Niagara Falls Bridge Commission has announced that crossing any one of the three bridges to Canada – The Rainbow, Whirlpool, or the Lewiston Queenston Bridges will cost more beginning May 1.
Currently only Nexus pass holders may cross the Whirlpool Bridge and Commercial traffic may only use the Lewiston Queenston Bridge.
In the first increase in three years, the Commission cited an increased cost in goods and materials, maintenance, and safety procedures as the reason for the price hike.
Currently standard passenger vehicles pay $5US to cross the bridges. Beginning May 1 that price will increase to $6US or $8,50CAD. For five-axle vehicles the price will go to $34US or $48,50CAD.
While commercial traffic crossing the border has remained fairly constant; vehicle traffic has seen a drastic drop. Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz reported that vehicle border crossing is down 13%.
Reports are that the United States could lose over $3 billion over decreased tourism.