SURREY (NEWS1130) – As opposition grows to the tolls on the new Port Mann Bridge, many cry foul that they have to pay to drive on the Trans Canada Highway.

It’s one of the longest highways in the world — over 8,000 kilometres long and travels through every province — but it’s not illegal to toll the Trans Canada Highway.

Transportation Minister Mary Polak says it’s not just the new Port Mann Bridge that is tolled, but several sections of Highway 1 across the country.

“British Columbia has to manage the portions of the Trans Canada Highway, such as the Port Mann Bridge, so it’s not under federal jurisdiction. I know many people think it still is but it’s not,” she explains.

Polak adds change was made years ago.

“Again, that’s something that changed years and years ago, and it’s not just the Port Mann Bridge, there are many other areas of the Trans Canada Highway that are operated and maintained by British Columbia.”

Tolls of $1.50 start sometime in December on the new Port Mann Bridge after a one week grace period.