2008 Passenger Intercept Survey

IMTC participants have identified the need to periodically evaluate trip details of passenger vehicle travelers crossing at the five Cascade Gateway ports-of-entry (including Point Roberts/Boundary Bay most recently). These surveys help inform regional investment strategies, and provide insight into travel trends.

The Whatcom Council of Governments, in partnership with the Border Policy Research Institute at Western Washington University, conducted a passenger intercept survey at all Cascade Gateway ports-of-entry in the summer of 2007 and fall of 2008 to update to data collected in 2000 and to measure impacts of recent changes in border operations. Data includes information about crossing demographics, behaviors, and perceptions of cross-border initiatives.

Surveys were administered at all four Cascade Gateway ports-of-entry, including Peace Arch/Douglas, Pacific Highway, Lynden/Aldergrove, and Sumas/Abbotsford-Huntingdon.

Results

Summer season surveys were administered in July of 2007 and Winter surveys were done in February 2008 (to collect baseline February traffic patterns prior to the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver, BC.) Coverage included weekdays and weekend days in both directions at all four ports-of-entry between 7:00am and 9:00pm. A complete survey database is available as well as a report summarizing observed changes and trends.

Cost

$90,000

Funding & Partnerships

This project was funded by:

• Border Policy Research Institute
• Whatcom Council of Governments

Equipment was provided by B.C. Ministry of Transportation and the City of Blaine; support at the ports-of-entry was provided by U.S. Customs & Border Protection and Canada Border Services Agency.

For More Information

Contact Hugh Conroy, Director of Planning, at (360) 685-8384.