The New Brunswick government's proposal to implement a $4 toll on out-of-province vehicles traveling the Trans-Canada Highway near Aulac has ignited significant controversy. Local business owners and politicians express deep concerns about the potential economic repercussions.

Tom Trueman, owner of Trueman Blueberry Farms in Aulac, estimates that approximately 35% of his clientele hails from Nova Scotia. He fears the toll could deter these visitors, stating, "For everybody, they have to watch where they spend and they may decide not to travel at all or go in a different direction." ([globalnews.ca](https://globalnews.ca/news/11822828/new-brunswick-border-town-toll-concerns/?utm_source=openai))

Mayor Andrew Black of Tantramar echoes these sentiments, highlighting the interconnectedness of border communities. He notes that many residents from Amherst, Nova Scotia, frequent Tantramar for services and businesses, and that Mount Allison University students often reside in Nova Scotia. Black emphasizes, "So that’s the economic drivers and that would be a disappointment for our community." ([globalnews.ca](https://globalnews.ca/news/11822828/new-brunswick-border-town-toll-concerns/?utm_source=openai))

The trucking industry also voices strong opposition. Chris McKee, executive director of the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association, warns that the toll could elevate supply chain costs and, consequently, consumer prices. He points out that approximately 2,500 commercial vehicles traverse this corridor daily, underscoring the toll's potential widespread impact. ([trucknews.com](https://www.trucknews.com/transportation/new-brunswick-toll-plan-draws-sharp-trucking-industry-backlash/1003211500/?utm_source=openai))

Despite mounting criticism, Premier Susan Holt remains steadfast, asserting that the toll is essential for funding road maintenance. She draws parallels to existing tolls in neighboring provinces, stating, "We’re certainly moving ahead with the plan to put tolls on the roads, the same as our neighbours in Nova Scotia and P.E.I. have done." ([halifax.citynews.ca](https://halifax.citynews.ca/2026/04/07/future-n-b-toll-by-n-s-boundary-goes-against-internal-trade-efforts-chamber-says/?utm_source=openai))

The debate continues, with stakeholders from various sectors urging the government to reconsider the toll's implementation, emphasizing the potential economic strain on border communities and the broader region.