TORONTO, Ont. — Travelling Hwy. 407 during off-peak hours will result in significant savings for commercial vehicle users, operators of 407 ETR have promised.

A revamped fee structure for commercial vehicles was announced as part of a recent agreement between 407 ETR and the Province of Ontario. Changes will be implemented over the next two years which will introduce a multi-tiered reward program for heavy-duty vehicle users.

First-tier users will save up to 50 per cent by travelling at night and on weekends and 25 per cent for other off-peak travel times. The video toll charge will also be eliminated in this tier, 407 ETR operators have announced.

The second tier of users will save 25 per cent for nighttime and weekend travel with up to 10 per cent off off-peak travel rates.

The third tier of heavy-duty vehicle users will see a reduction in video toll charges of up to 70 per cent. The discounts will be tied to compliance rates for proper use of transponders by heavy-duty vehicle users.

Other changes in store as a result of the agreement include the introduction of a $40 million customer benefit program. And the highway will also be expanded by more than 100 km by late 2007.

“Drivers told us they wanted better customer service and more accountability,” said Transport Minister, Harinder Takhar. “We have reached an agreement with the 407 ETR that will improve service for consumers beginning immediately and for years to come.”