Border Towns Concerned as B.C. Residents Avoid Washington Trips for a Year
In 2025, British Columbians increasingly opted to stay in Canada, leading to significant concerns among border towns in Washington State. The Whatcom Council of Governments reported a staggering 35% decline in southbound crossings by B.C. vehicles compared to the previous year. This downward trend began early in the year and persisted, raising alarm for communities reliant on Canadian tourism.
Impact on Border Towns
Border towns like Blaine, Washington, experience the brunt of this shift. Once-busy gas stations and parcel businesses are now facing closures due to the lack of Canadian consumers. Blaine Mayor Mary Lou Steward expressed her worries about the long-term effects of this trend on her community’s economy.
Reasons for Avoiding Washington Trips
- Weak Canadian dollar compared to the U.S. currency
- Absence of consumer carbon tax resulting in cheaper gas in Canada
- Loss of trust stemming from U.S. trade policies and political tensions
Many residents feel that the ongoing tariff disputes and past threats of annexation have eroded trust between Canadians and Americans. Mayor Steward mentioned that restoring this trust might take generations. Despite these challenges, she continues to invite Canadians to visit, emphasizing shared values and mutual benefits.
The Decline of Cross-Border Travel
Len Saunders, an immigration lawyer from Blaine, described the situation as an “absolute collapse” in cross-border traffic. He noted that recent rhetoric from the U.S. government and reports of negative interactions at border crossings are discouraging Canadians from traveling south, despite there being few incidents at the border itself.
Future Outlook for Local Businesses
With fewer Canadians visiting, businesses in Washington anticipate a challenging year ahead. In Whatcom County, reports indicate that Canadian tourists can constitute up to 80% of visitors in areas like Seattle and King County. The drop in this demographic could pose significant economic hurdles for local establishments.
Laurie Trautman, director of the Border Policy Research Institute, originally perceived the reduction in travel as a temporary setback. However, she now believes it may signal a new normal, which is concerning given the longstanding ties between British Columbia and Washington State.
Conclusion
As border towns grapple with the implications of decreased Canadian visits, both sides of the 49th parallel recognize the necessity of maintaining good relations. Efforts to strengthen cross-border ties will be essential for the community’s recovery and growth in the foreseeable future.
