People along the US-Canadian border await word of reopening

BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) – It’s high summer along the border between the United States and Canada and people on both sides are wondering when the two governments will ease border-crossing restrictions imposed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With increasing vaccination rates and dropping infection rates, many are annoyed the two governments haven’t laid out detailed plans to fully reopen the border.

U.S. tourism officials estimate the closure costs about $1.5 billion a month.

People with family and friends on the other side cannot cross easily.

Starting Monday, Canada is easing its restrictions somewhat, allowing its fully vaccinated citizens and permanent residents to enter without a two-week quarantine.