Federal Government Announces Significant Toll Reductions for Confederation Bridge

In a move aimed at enhancing accessibility and economic connectivity, the federal government of Canada has announced substantial reductions in toll fees for the Confederation Bridge and ferry services operating in Eastern Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney made the announcement on July 28, 2025, during a visit to Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.), where he emphasized the importance of affordable travel for both residents and tourists alike.

Effective August 1, 2025, the toll for crossing the Confederation Bridge will be cut dramatically from $50.25 to $20, a decrease of almost 60%. This toll reduction applies equally to transport trucks, which will also benefit from the flat rate of $20. However, no changes will be made to the fees for cyclists, pedestrians, shuttles, or motorcycles, which remain unaffected.

In conjunction with the bridge toll reduction, ferry fares for federally supported services in Eastern Canada will also see a 50% decrease. This includes key routes connecting Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec, to Souris, P.E.I., and Wood Islands, P.E.I., to Caribou, Nova Scotia, among others. Prime Minister Carney stated, "Today's announcement will mean more Canadians can see more of Atlantic Canada," highlighting the anticipated boost in tourism and regional travel.

The decision to lower tolls and ferry fares is part of a broader strategy to stimulate the economy in Atlantic Canada, particularly as the region continues to recover from the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Carney noted that the savings from reduced travel costs would be reinvested into the local economy, benefiting businesses and families alike.

P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz, who has been a vocal advocate for toll reductions, expressed his gratitude for the federal government's action. "I’ve been a real pest, a thorn in the side of everyone in Ottawa. We’ve been pushing for this forever. It’s been 28 years that we’ve paid outrageous tolls on that bridge, and this is going to save Prince Edward Islanders tens of millions of dollars," Lantz remarked. He emphasized that the high tolls effectively acted as a tariff on exports, and the reduction would significantly alleviate economic pressure on the province.

Furthermore, Joanne Thompson, Member of Parliament for St. John's East and Canada's Fisheries Minister, underscored the importance of the ferry services for Newfoundland and Labrador. More than 60% of all goods transported to and from Newfoundland are managed by Marine Atlantic, which provides essential connectivity to the rest of Canada. "This is an important decision for our economy and for our families," Thompson stated.

Transport Minister Chrystia Freeland echoed these sentiments, asserting that the toll reductions would provide measurable economic benefits during a challenging time for Canada. "If we work together, if we build one Canadian economy, we can do more for ourselves and each other than anyone can take away from us," Freeland emphasized during the announcement.

This announcement aligns with Prime Minister Carney's campaign pledge to reduce tolls and ferry rates, fulfilling a promise made during the recent federal elections. As the federal government continues to prioritize infrastructure and connectivity in its agenda, the implications of this decision may reverberate throughout the Atlantic Canadian economy, fostering increased mobility and trade.

In conclusion, the reduction of tolls on the Confederation Bridge and ferry fares marks a significant step towards improving the economic landscape of Eastern Canada. By facilitating easier access to the region, the government aims to promote tourism, support local businesses, and strengthen the overall economy. The forthcoming changes are expected to take effect in just a few days, and many residents and stakeholders are eager to witness the positive impacts on their communities.