The Port Mann Bridge toll is expected to open in December, and in a recent announcement, the Province of British Columbia announced that drivers who register by February 28, 2013 will receive half price tolls for one full year, except for truck drivers– they are exempt from the discount.
While passenger cars and small trucks will be enjoying a smaller fee, truck drivers will have to pay a $9.00 toll fee.
The BC Trucking Association is encouraging truck drivers to pass the $9.00 toll fee onto their customers.
“It’s not fair,” truck driver Jason Law told the Surrey Leader. “There’s nothing for us. Everybody’s getting these discounts except the trucks.”
According to the Surrey Leader, Law figures he will spend $12,000 on toll fees next year.
“That’s a good chunk of money,” Law continued. “Every truck driver around is pretty choked about these tolls. It’s just crammed down your throat and this is what you’re going to pay.”
To add insult to injury, truck drivers don’t have the option to purchase the unlimited monthly pass that is available to other commuters.
Max Logan, Port Mann/Highway 1 project spokesman,  said that large trucks are being offered a 50-per-cent overnight discount if they travel between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.  He said that the purpose for the overnight discount is to help ease traffic congestion during the rush hours.
Drivers, what do you think? Â Is it fair to only offer discounts to non-truck drivers?