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Bay City Mayor Condemns "Drastic" Toll Increase (Bay County)
Chambray Anaman/Brawk Cole
Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:31:02 EST
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Bay City Mayor Chris Girard has issued a condemnation of Bay City Bridge Partners' most recent decision to drastically increase toll rates on it's local bridges. The mayor argues that the hike goes far beyond any reasonable cost-of-living adjustment and places an undue financial burden upon residents, commuters, and local businesses. Adding to the concern, the popular monthly pass for unlimited bridge crossings will soon be discontinued entirely.
"Bay City residents should not have to shoulder the cost of a corporate entity prioritizing profits over people," Mayor Girard stated. He described the increase as "excessive" and "harmful to working families, seniors, and small businesses already facing economic challenges." Girard emphasized the widespread impact the toll hikes will have on the community, limiting access and mobility for those who can least afford it. According to a letter sent to monthly pass users, the cost of an unlimited monthly pass for either of Bay City's two toll bridges, the Independence and Liberty bridges, will double next month, increasing from $15 to $30. The letter also states that the unlimited pass program will be discontinued entirely in July. This change further restricts options for frequent bridge users.
The mayor is urging Bay City Bridge Partners to reconsider the toll increase and the elimination of the monthly pass program, and instead work with local officials and community stakeholders to develop a more equitable tolling approach. He believes that infrastructure should serve the public good, not solely corporate profits.
"My role as mayor is to be the voice of our residents," Girard continued. "The people of Bay City deserve better, and I will do everything in my power to push for solutions that prioritize fairness, transparency, and accountability."
The City Commission and administration are reportedly exploring all available options to protect residents from what they consider unfair tolling practices. Mayor Girard also called on Bay City Bridge Partners to engage in meaningful dialogue with the community, rather than imposing such significant and, in his view, unjustified increases and service reductions.
