Want Americans to cross the border again? Niagara officials say scrap COVID-19 test requirements

The mayor of Niagara Falls and local business owners say the new, loosened border restrictions don't change much and Ottawa needs to scrap COVID-19 testing requirements for tourists if it wants to make a real difference.

The U.S. land border reopened Monday to fully vaccinated Canadian travellers after being closed for more than a year-and-a-half.

For Americans entering Canada, they have to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular test taken within 72 hours of arrival, which can cost hundreds of dollars.

Americans aren't coming because of test requirements: mayor

Niagara Falls mayor Jim Diodati said those rules are motivating people to stay on their side of the border.

"The Americans have made the decision. They won't do [the test], they just aren't coming. So we know that although we partially open things up, it's not enough. People are like water. They'll take the path of least resistance," he said.

The border closure hit Niagara hard, given some 25 per cent of tourists come from the U.S. and make up half of its revenue, according to Diodati.

Eddy Pybus, vice chair of the downtown Niagara Falls BIA, said one positive has been Canadians are shopping in Niagara instead of crossing the border — but it still isn't the same given Americans will likely get a hotel and spend more money in the city.

He said dropping the test requirement would help make the next summer a great time for tourism.

Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam said the government is reviewing the test requirement.

Eric Bazzi, director of the Multiracial District of the Canada Border Services Agency, said there's no anticipation of heavy traffic coming into the country Monday.

"We're going to feel it a few days later with Canadians that are going to be traveling to the U.S. and returning," he said.

Keith Simmonds, vice president and general manager of Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls, said the business was shut down for more than 500 days and is looking to bring on more employees.

With that, he said any progress is good progress.

"Our entire industry, our entire economy is really looking forward to getting back to normal," he said.