We’re celebrating Strait Crossing Bridge Ltd. and their 25+ years of membership with the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce!

Here’s what the team behind The Confederation Bridge had to say about their experience doing business on Prince Edward Island and their longstanding involvement with the GCACC:

“As PEI’s population has grown from approximately 135,000 to nearly 180,000, the Chamber has evolved alongside it, expanding its services to meet new business needs while continuing to integrate business into the fabric of the community. We’ve especially valued the Chamber’s advocacy on issues that could have negatively impacted the business sector, as well as the networking and marketing support that has helped create win-win outcomes for local businesses.”
Strait Crossing Bridge Ltd., Operator of the Confederation Bridge

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Q&A with Strait Crossing Bridge Ltd.

What’s your favourite hidden gem on PEI?
There are many gems on Prince Edward Island, some more hidden than others. I will say that the Argyle Shore Provincial Park doesn’t get enough attention. It’s a great beach in the summer without the high traffic.

How have you seen the Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce grow and evolve during your 25+ years as a member?
With a population moving from approx 135,000 to now close to 180,000 the Chamber has responded to business needs with a greater offering of services. But the important basics remain such as integrating business in the community.

If you could only eat one PEI dish for the rest of your life, what would it be?
My heart (or my stomach really) keeps going back and forth between the oysters and the lobster. It really is impossible to choose, without mentioning the mussels, clams, scallops… So, really, anything seafood!

What have you appreciated the most about being a Chamber member over the years?
The advocacy on topics that stood to negatively impact the business community.

Can you share a memorable PEI moment from your time running your business here?
When the company was successful at changing the toll structure of the bridge from a ferry seating capacity system to a highway/weight based system thus removing inequities between classes of vehicles such as buses.

How do you think the Chamber has influenced local businesses and the community during your membership?
By providing networking opportunities and marketing support leading to win-win outcomes.

What’s one thing about PEI you think people often overlook or don’t appreciate enough?
The people. PEI is talked about for its rich food and its beautiful sceneries, but really what makes it PEI, a great place to be and stay, is the people here. The sense of community they bring, the hard work, the need to help your neighbours…

Looking back, what major changes in the business climate on PEI stand out to you?
I think the business community is much more confident and better equipped today to be “in the game” and compete on the open market. The PEI brand is very strong in so many areas.

What’s your go-to way to relax and enjoy the Island’s natural beauty?
I think in the winter it’s going to Bonshaw provincial park to hike. In the summer, any spot on the island does the job to perfection.

What advice would you give to newer businesses on PEI, based on the changes and growth you’ve witnessed?
Embrace diversity as great talent and ideas along with new opportunities are at your doorstep.