MP asks government to examine whether users of the Simpson Bay Causeway should contribute directly to its cost
PHILIPSBURG:--- MP Francisco Lacroes has proposed introducing a small toll for vehicles using the Simpson Bay Causeway, suggesting a charge of 25 or 50 cents as a possible way to help cover costs borne by Sint Maarten.
Lacroes raised the idea during Monday evening’s Central Committee debate on the draft 2027 national budget. Before reading his ministry-by-ministry questions, he asked the Council of Ministers to respond to several proposals he believed could help the country’s finances.
“A toll on the causeway,” he said, repeating the proposal for emphasis. Lacroes argued that many people using the bridge live on the French side, while, in his view, residents and taxpayers on the Dutch side bear its cost. “I don’t even care if it’s 25 cents, if it’s 50 cents,” he told Parliament, adding that even a modest charge could add up over time.
He did not present a traffic count, revenue estimate, collection plan or proposed start date. His remarks were a request for the government’s view, rather than an announcement that a toll has been approved.
The proposal raises questions ministers would need to answer before assessing it: how many vehicles use the causeway, what a small charge would raise after collection costs, who has authority to impose it, and whether toll booths or an electronic system would create delays on a route used to avoid congestion.
Lacroes did not propose charging only French-side residents. As stated on the parliamentary floor, his idea was a toll for use of the causeway. Ministers’ response will determine whether the government intends to study the proposal and whether it sees a toll as practical or financially worthwhile.