Programs to Speed U.S.-Canada Border Crossings

August 14, 2003

On September 9, 2002, President Bush and Canadian Prime Minister Chretien officially launched the Free and Secure Trade (FAST lane) and the Nexus programs which are designed to speed border crossings for frequent, low-risk individuals and businesses. FAST lane, which applies to commercial truck traffic, has been in use on a limited basis at the Peace Bridge, in Buffalo, New York. Under the program, pre-approved trucks can pass through Customs without delay. Information regarding the truck, the driver, and the cargo is transmitted to Customs inspectors up to an hour before the truck arrives at the border. The Nexus program will allow commuters to use a special fast lane on a number of border crossings, including the Ambassador Bridge, the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, and the Peace Bridge.