If you regularly drive across the Nova Scotia border, you will want to pay attention to the latest developments on the Aulac highway toll. New Brunswick’s governing Liberal party faces growing pressure over its plan to install the toll, and this time, the criticism comes from inside the party.
The Tantramar Liberal Association publicly announced its disagreement with the provincial toll plan on Wednesday. The group stated it must speak openly when a provincial policy raises legitimate concerns for the people and businesses of Tantramar.
Local Liberals Speak Out
Riding president Merrill Fullerton told CTV News Atlantic in an emailed statement that the association remains optimistic the government will reconsider the toll.
The province originally announced the Aulac toll booth in March. The government designed the measure to recoup costs and address a projected deficit that has recently grown from 1.39 billion dollars to 1.66 billion dollars.
The Financial Picture and Regional Pushback
The government expects to have the toll in place by 2028. The fee will not apply to vehicles registered in New Brunswick. Revenue from the toll will fund road and bridge maintenance across the province.
Despite the local exemption, the plan faces heavy criticism from neighbouring Nova Scotians and the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce. The chamber argues the toll creates higher costs for trade, trucking, tourism, and commuters. They are calling for fewer barriers in Atlantic Canada, not more.
Government and Opposition Responses
New Brunswick Transportation Minister Chuck Chiasson told reporters he hears from locals on both sides of the debate. He noted that some residents believe it is time to charge out of province drivers to use local roads, pointing out that other provinces already do this.
Incoming Green Party Leader and Tantramar MLA Megan Mitton views the association’s public stance as clear proof of community opposition. She emphasized that communities on both sides of the border are deeply connected and warned that the toll will undermine those relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Aulac highway toll take effect?
The provincial government expects the toll to be operational by 2028.
Will New Brunswick residents have to pay the toll?
No. The toll will not apply to vehicles registered in New Brunswick.
How will the government use the toll revenue?
The province will direct all revenue from the toll toward road and bridge maintenance.
So , no social licence for this project too. Soon we will be “social licensing’ ourselves out of economic development and will rely on the charity and good will of other Provincial and Federal Governments to keep our “social” agencies afloat.