Macdonald Bridge reopens, toll plaza removal work shifts to MacKay next weekend

The Macdonald Bridge, which was closed for toll plaza removal, reopened earlier than scheduled over the weekend.

The Macdonald Bridge has reopened earlier than scheduled, meaning drivers no longer have to take a detour in order to cross Halifax Harbour.

The bridge closed Friday at 7 p.m. to allow for some final work to get done. The demolition project includes the removal of toll booths, concrete barriers, and electronics as well as repaving the approaches and reconfiguring lanes.

The Macdonald was scheduled to be closed until 5:30 a.m. Monday, but according to the Halifax Harbour Bridges website, it reopened Sunday.

Toll plaza removal on the Macdonald began March 14.

“I’m all for it I think,” said driver Darrell Dempster.

After opening 70 years ago, drivers stopped paying tolls on both Halifax Harbour Bridges March 17. The work is getting done two weeks earlier than the deadline promise made by Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston during the provincial election campaign.

“It’s nice when the politicians make a promise and keep it. This was one that was announced, and it did happen,” Dempster said.

Dempster would like to see the free passage extended to another popular bridge.

“I’m hopeful the same thing happens in P.E.I. with the toll because it’s a little more expensive and we have a property there.”

Demolition of the toll plazas will move to the MacKay Bridge beginning March 28 which will mean the span will be closed to allow crews to get the work done.

Refunds for any remaining balances as of April 1 for the 230,000 MACPASS holders will begin mid-April.

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