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News Release
National 2010
Border Crossing Coalition Announces Comprehensive Planning Effort to Promote Efficient Travel During Holiday Season and Upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships
Buffalo, N.Y. December 21, 2010 – Today an informal coalition of customs agencies, port operators, and binational advocacy organizations unveiled a comprehensive planning effort to facilitate greater efficiency and reliability at border crossings in the Buffalo and Niagara Falls areas during anticipated peak travel days between December 24, 2010 and January 5, 2011.
The coalition includes the Buffalo Sabres hockey organization, the Binational Economic and Tourism Alliance (BETA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Peace Bridge Authority (PBA), the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission (NFBC), the Ontario Motor Coach Association (OMCA), the Niagara International Transportation Technology Coalition (NITTEC), the Niagara Sports Commission, and the Canadian Consulate.
It is anticipated that December 26 will be one of the busier cross-border periods, with various special events scheduled (i.e., a Buffalo Bills home game at 1 p.m., the World Junior Hockey Championship kickoff, with three games at the HSBC Arena in Buffalo (12:30 p.m., 4 p.m. (Russia – Canada) and 8 p.m., and one game at Dwyer Arena in Niagara Falls, NY, at 4 p.m.). Many skiers and cross-border shoppers are also expected to take advantage of Boxing Day specials on both sides of the border.
Two other potential peak travel days are December 28 and December 31, when three World Junior Hockey games are scheduled at the HSBC Arena in Buffalo at 12:30 p.m., 4 p.m., and 8 p.m., as well as one game at Dwyer Arena in Niagara Falls, NY, at 4 p.m.
Travellers with flexible travel plans are urged to leave as early as possible for their cross-border shopping trips and avoid peak travel periods, usually during late morning for U.S. bound motorists, and between noon and midnight for those headed to Canada. On December 26, Canadian shoppers travelling to the United States are encouraged to leave early and return home before noon, if possible, in order to minimize their crossing time. In addition, any travellers able to spend the night of December 25 at their cross-border destination will be able to take the earliest possible advantage of the many specials and activities on both sides of the border.
Fans attending hockey games on December 26, 28, and 31 are advised to allow for extra time when crossing the border. Such travellers should plan to arrive well before the game start times, allowing them to take advantage of the many pre-game activities being held. For more information, log onto www.buffaloworldjuniors.com.
As always, travellers should ensure that they have proper identification readily available when crossing the border. Compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is required for all travellers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens. WHTI‑compliant documents include a valid passport, U.S. Passport Card, Trusted Traveller card (NEXUS or FAST) or an Enhanced Driver's License. These are also the preferred documents for entry into Canada. Children under the age of 16 can present an original or copy of their birth certificate. Visit the WHTI Web site for additional information www.getyouhome.gov regarding entry into the U.S. and the CBSA Web site for entry into Canada.
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Travellers should check traffic conditions at the Peace, Rainbow, and Queenston-Lewiston Bridges and select the least busy crossing. Current travel conditions are available by:
- calling the NFBC toll-free line at 1-800-715-6722 or 511 for traffic updates
- tuning the radio to 1610 AM
- visiting the following websites
- noting NITTEC highway dynamic message signs with posted delays
- registering at www.mynittec.org to receive a free personalized e-mail or text notifications of border delays and regional traffic information
- accessing Twitter at www.twitter.com/CBSA_BWT
- using cell phones to access travel information at www.wap.gc.ca or www.gc.ca
Travellers may also avoid border delays by crossing at the NEXUS-only Whirlpool Bridge if all passengers in the vehicle have a NEXUS card. The Whirlpool Bridge is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
During the anticipated peak travel days and other peak periods through to December 31, U.S. CBP and the CBSA will have operational measures in place to expedite and facilitate border crossings by scheduling additional staff and maximizing the number of available primary lanes. However, if travellers choose or have no other option than to cross during the anticipated busiest days or peak periods, allow for extra time, be prepared with proper identification, have supplies in the vehicle such as water and snacks, and be patient. Same-day Canadian cross-border shoppers returning to Canada are reminded that there are no personal exemptions applicable and all purchases are subject to the HST and other possible duties.
For more information, check Know Before You Go on the U.S. CBP Web site at www.cbp.gov or click onto “Canadian and Residents” on the left of CBSA's homepage.
Cross safely and allow for extra time to reach your cross-border destination. Don't drink and drive. Happy Travelling and Happy Holidays!
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For media information:
Michael Gilbert
Director of Public Relations
Buffalo Sabres
716-855-4526
Arlene White
Executive Director
BETA
716-856-6525, x133
Kevin Corsaro
Chief Public Affairs
U.S. CBP
716-626-6404, x204
Jean D'Amelio Swyer
Communication Manager
CBSA
905-354-2011 (office)
905-933-5463 (cell.)
