Canadian travel to the U.S. is dropping fast, with many blaming U.S. President Donald Trump for his tariffs. In March, vehicle crossings at Ogdensburg fell nearly 25% compared to last year. People crossing the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge dropped by over 33%.
Compared to the previous 12-month average, vehicle traffic to the U.S. dropped 63%, and the number of people heading south fell nearly 47%.
The shift may benefit towns like Brockville. The Downtown Brockville BIA says local shopping is up, with more people supporting Canadian businesses.
However, fewer American tourists could hurt local tourism during the summer season.
In Ogdensburg, business owners are noticing the change. Canadian traffic is down, but they’re hopeful regulars will return.
Reports of new checkpoints at some U.S. border entries could make things worse, raising concerns that more Canadians will choose to stay home.
Story by Harper Cotie
