Are There Any Privately Owned Toll Bridges in America That Cross Public Waterways?

Yes, there are several privately owned toll bridges in the United States that cross public waterways. These bridges are typically managed and operated by private companies or entities that have the necessary permits and rights to charge tolls. While most waterways themselves are considered public, the issue of privately owned bridges is a complex and evolving topic.

Examples of Privately Owned Toll Bridges

Here are a few examples of privately owned toll bridges that cross public waterways:

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge

Located in Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is a prime example of a privately managed public structure. While primarily a public bridge, private entities are involved in its management and toll collection. This is a unique configuration that showcases the varying roles of public and private sectors in managing infrastructure.

The San Mateo-Hayward Bridge

Also in California, the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge is publicly funded but has had private management aspects throughout its operational history. This bridge serves as a testament to the collaborative approach between public and private sectors in maintaining and operating major infrastructure.

The George C. Page Bridge

One of the more distinct examples is the privately owned George C. Page Bridge in Florida. This bridge, which crosses the St. Johns River, is a shining example of a privately owned public infrastructure that operates under strict regulatory oversight to ensure public safety and operational standards.

The Benjamin Franklin Bridge

The Benjamin Franklin Bridge, spanning New Jersey and Pennsylvania, started as a public bridge but is now operated by a private entity that collects tolls. This transition reflects the shift from public to private management in maintaining and funding major infrastructure projects.

Public Waterways vs. Private Ownership

It's important to note that while all waterways are considered public, the presence of privately owned bridges does not negate this status. There are numerous instances where private entities manage and operate these bridges while still adhering to public regulations and standards.

Increasing Privatization Trends

The number of privately owned toll bridges is increasing as governments sell off existing infrastructure to corporations capable of maintaining and funding it. One prominent example is the bridge connecting the mainland of South Carolina with Hilton Head Island. This bridge is privately owned and requires a toll for crossing, highlighting the growing trend towards privatization.

Regulatory Criteria

Privately owned bridges must meet specific criteria to ensure public safety and operational standards. These include requirements for height above the high water line, weight capacity, and lane width. Dams, another form of public water infrastructure, are often owned by private corporations and serve similar regulatory standards.

The Ambassador Bridge

One of the most well-known privately owned toll bridges is the Ambassador Bridge, which connects Detroit, Michigan, to Windsor, Ontario. This bridge is owned by Manuel Moroun through the Detroit International Bridge Company and serves as a major border crossing between the United States and Canada. With high traffic volumes, it exemplifies the economic importance of privately owned infrastructure in international trade.

Conclusion

The presence of privately owned toll bridges in the United States that cross public waterways is a complex issue. While these bridges must adhere to public regulatory standards, they also reflect the growing trend towards privatization in infrastructure management. As such, they play a significant role in both the economy and the landscape of American infrastructure.