Motorists residing outside Bay City limits are bracing for higher costs as Bay City Bridge Partners announced a price hike for unlimited crossings on the Independence and Liberty bridges. Starting in March, the monthly fee for unlimited crossings is set to jump to $30, affecting only current users of the plan, as no new sign-ups will be accepted.
The fee for the unlimited plan is scheduled to double upon renewal in March, a sharp increase from the previous $15 rate. In addition to the upcoming price change, Bay City Bridge Partners made it clear that they will end the unlimited crossings offer by summer, with the possibility to maybe consider a new promotion by July. The increase and forthcoming program conclusion are causing concern among frequent bridge users who rely on the plan to minimize transportation expenses, as reported by ABC13.
Bay City Mayor Chris Girard condemned the rate increase and program's impending end. In a statement posted on Facebook, Girard expressed disapproval of the toll hikes, stating, "Bay City residents should not have to shoulder the cost of a corporate entity prioritizing profits over people," and describing the increase as "excessive" and "harmful." According to MLive, he argued that the price surge will adversely affect "working families, seniors, and small businesses already facing economic challenges."
Details about the price increase were also shared on the Bay City Bridge Partners' social media page, obtained by MLive, indicating that unlimited plan holders will not need to take any action to continue service at the higher rate, while others can cancel their subscriptions through various contact methods. Bay City Bridge Partners emphasized the importance of keeping existing transponders, as they are necessary to avoid the $5.50 fee charged to vehicles crossing without registration.
For residents within Bay City, this change to the bridge toll policy does not affect their current privileges; they will maintain free access until 2028 for the Liberty Bridge and until 2030 for the Independence Bridge, as long as they utilize a transponder. Residents and non-residents searching for toll-free alternatives can only turn to the Veterans Memorial Bridge, while the Lafayette Bridge remains closed for construction until 2027.
