Successful stakeholder meeting may lead to continued bridge bus service in Sault Ste. Marie

Contact: Bob Felt , 888-304-6368

Agency: Transportation

September 2, 2003 - The International Bridge Administration today announced a successful meeting of five key stakeholders regarding the future of the bridge bus service. All parties agreed the bridge bus was important to both communities and provides a valuable service. The groups also agreed to work together to find a solution allowing the bridge bus operation to continue beyond the end of the month.

Key stakeholders include the cities of Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario and Michigan, Lake Superior State University, Michigan Department of Transportation and the Joint International Bridge Authority/International Bridge Administration.

"Today's meeting is another step in the right direction," said Phil Becker, IBA General Manager. "We're hoping for a positive outcome before the September 30, 2003 deadline."

Historically, the JIBA has provided an annual subsidy for operation of the bridge bus. Unless an equitable local cost-sharing agreement is in place by the end of September 2003, the JIBA will terminate its subsidy and the bridge bus service will be discontinued.

The bridge bus carries approximately 17,000 riders annually between the twin Saults.

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