August 4, 2008 -- The International Bridge Administration (IBA) has completed the installation of automated toll gates and new digital-message signs for all toll lanes to help customers move through the International Bridge toll plaza safely and quickly.
Starting Aug. 4, customers approaching the bridge toll plaza will be able to see which lanes are only accepting the IQ Prox toll card, which are open to all traffic, and which are closed. It's expected the new signs, coupled with automation capability, will enhance customer convenience, improve traffic flow, and promote safety.
"These improvements continue our commitment to efficient traffic management at the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge. The Prox lane expansion will help provide our customers with a safe and convenient passage through the toll plaza," said Phil Becker, IBA general manager.
IQ Prox card customers can use the card reader device installed in lanes that are in automated mode, as well as use staffed lanes. In staffed lanes, Prox card customers must pass the card to the toll attendant for processing. In automated lanes, the toll is automatically deducted from the Prox card account, the release gate rises, and drivers exit the toll lane.
There will be no toll attendant layoffs as a result of the new capabilities. Toll attendants will continue to process cash transactions, commercial customers, and customers with regular IQ toll cards, as well as process regular IQ card and Prox card deposits.
Prox cards are available for purchase at the IBA office, from 7 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and Fridays from 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Visit the IBA website at www.michigan.gov/iba for convenient IQ Prox card program information.
Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge: Bridging Our Past, Connecting Our Future
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