If you frequently drive across the Nova Scotia border, you will want to pay attention to a new toll plan. According to CBC News, Premier Susan Holt faces opposition from her own party supporters over a planned highway toll at the New Brunswick and Nova Scotia border. The provincial Liberal riding association in Tantramar publicly opposes the toll. The government plans to start charging out of province drivers at the Aulac border in 2028.

Economic Concerns Drive Opposition

The Tantramar Liberals voiced their concerns in a recent Facebook post. They argue the toll threatens the local economy. A survey of 653 residents in Amherst, Nova Scotia, shows these individuals spend $4.4 million in New Brunswick. The association states the toll will deter these cross border shoppers. They also claim the plan contradicts efforts by Mark Carney to lower provincial trade barriers.

Former Liberal finance minister Cathy Rogers helped draft the opposition post. Tantramar riding association president Merrill Fullerton hopes Premier Holt reconsiders the plan. He cites her logical decision making and business sense as reasons for optimism. Green MLA Megan Mitton, who represents Tantramar, says the community clearly rejects the tolls.

Government Defends the Toll Plan

The Liberal government announced the toll booths in their March budget. They estimate the project will generate $10.4 million annually.

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Chuck Chiasson says the government hears mixed reactions. He notes some residents support the idea of charging for road use. Chiasson points out that New Brunswick remains the only Maritime province without highway tolls. Nova Scotia operates a toll plaza between Amherst and Truro.

Chiasson says he receives communications from across the province supporting the initiative. He states that it is time to charge people to use provincial roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the New Brunswick border toll start?

The provincial government plans to implement the toll in 2028.

Who will pay the Aulac highway toll?

The toll will only apply to out of province traffic entering New Brunswick.

How much revenue will the toll generate?

The government estimates the toll will collect $10.4 million a year.