Prince Albert councillor hopes Diefenbaker Bridge toll will spur investment in 2nd bridge
Bridge is only crossing over North Saskatchewan River for more than 120 kilometres in either direction
Travelling through Saskatchewan's Gateway to the North could get a little pricier for drivers.
On Tuesday, Prince Albert city council discussed a motion to investigate the cost to install a toll on the city's Diefenbaker Bridge.
Ward 1 Coun. Charlene Miller said she brought up the idea so that "the upper levels of government believe that we are serious about a second bridge and how to come up with ways to fund it."
"I think that's one of the ways they'll believe that we're serious about it," she said.
Prince Albert has been looking for a way to pay for another bridge in the city but the Saskatchewan government has not offered up the infrastructure funding.
In January 2013, a government report said the existing Diefenbaker Bridge probably wouldn't reach capacity for up to 30 years.
Should locals pay?
Miller's request, which received unanimous approval, will now see city administration report back on two scenarios: one that exempts locals from paying the toll, and one that does not.
Miller said one option discussed by council on Tuesday would see residents receiving a 50 per cent discount on the toll.
"There's certainly quite a few options. You know, our tax base," said Miller referencing funding options for the second bridge. "But our tax base cannot afford it."
She said bridge users should help pay for the new bridge, adding that users of the current bridge include people from Saskatoon and Regina.
The Diefenbaker Bridge crosses the North Saskatchewan River, on Prince Albert's northern edge.
It gives access to northern communities such as La Ronge and Montreal Lake, and Prince Albert National Park.
The Diefenbaker Bridge is the only crossing on the North Saskatchewan River for more than 120 kilometres in either direction.
Traffic congestion on the bridge has long been an issue in the city and many are calling for a second bridge.
The report from city administration will be considered at an upcoming executive committee meeting.