Province proposes creating tolls for new highways and bridges

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Government of Alberta says the collection of user fees is one way to build or expand transportation infrastructure without digging too deep into their pocketbooks.

The Financing Alberta’s Strategic Transportation Act (FAST), or Bill 43, has been introduced into the legislature, which aims to “promote economic growth and additional strategic transportation projects.”

“By building new roads and bridges now, user-financed construction will strengthen economic growth and competitiveness at a time when Albertans need it most. The FAST Act will add to government-funded infrastructure, meaning faster commutes and less congestion while unleashing economic potential through speeding up commerce. Importantly, those Albertans who do not wish to pay user fees will still have toll-free alternatives. If you do not wish to pay a toll in Alberta, you will not have to pay a toll. Period,” says Transportation Minister Ric McIver.

The FAST Act would only allow for user fees to be implemented if there is a toll-free alternative and mandates that Albertans must be engaged before a project can be built using user fees.