New Toll Lanes, System Coming To International Bridge

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. (AP) - The Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge is opening toll lanes and upgrading its system with a new frequent-user rate structure.

The International Bridge Authority and Michigan Department of Transportation will start opening the lanes Monday night. They plan to have two southbound and two northbound lanes available by Tuesday morning.

Officials say by late September, the plaza will have four southbound and three northbound lanes.

The system features card readers outside toll booths, with automated gates and fare displays. Card-carrying customers' discounts will range from 10 percent for up to two crossings within 30 days to 30 percent for at least nine crossings during that period.

The rate structure was approved as part of staged toll increases.

The bridge connects Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

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