PACE Promotion

The PACE and CANPASS expedited traveler programs were the predecessors to the current NEXUS program, in operation at the Peace Arch/Douglas Ports-of-Entry between 1992 and 2001. This project promoted participation in the programs to frequent cross-border travelers.

Location

The PACE and CANPASS programs operated at the Peace Arch/Douglas Ports-of-Entry which connect to Interstate 5 and B.C. Highway 99.

Why this project was needed

The PACE (Peace Arch Crossing Entry) program for expedited border clearance of cross-border travelers created by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service, and Canada Customs and Revenue Agency’s analogous CANPASS program,  provided a dedicated commuter lane for enrolled regular cross-border travelers. These two programs were highly successful in both providing faster service to regular border commuters and providing inspection agencies an effective mechanism for focusing efforts away from low-risk traffic, better utilizing limited resources. CANPASS was free and PACE cost $25 a year to join.

In 2000, approximately 28 percent of the total volume of passenger vehicles crossing south at the Peace Arch port-of-entry used the PACE lane. If this percentage were to be increased to 45 percent of the total traffic volume, peak wait times were estimated to be reduced from one hour down to fifteen minutes. This project aimed at increasing enrollment to get closer to the 45 percent participation rate.

Results

Market research and surveys were completed, as well as reports detailing recommended operational improvements. The getPACE.com website started in 2000 and provided applications to each program. Advertising efforts included broad distribution of rack cards and regional newspaper ads and mailings.

The PACE and CANPASS programs were closed on September 11, 2001. They have been replaced with the joint U.S. – Canadian NEXUS program.

Cost

$200,000

Funding & Partnerships

This project was funded by:

• U.S. Federal Highway Administration: $200,000