A Montreal-based company will take over operations at the Halifax bridge toll booths.

The $2.7 million contract with GardaWorld, will employ 45 people who will work as toll takers and security for the A. Murray Mackay and the Angus L. Macdonald bridges.

The contract is for two years, but has the option to be extended twice, for an additional year each time.

Regional Manager for GardaWorld, Chris Murray says, they are honoured to join Halifax Harbour Bridges in this new partnership.

“Together, we are positioned to achieve great things and drive innovation in safety and customer service.”

Bridges CEO Tony Wright says they are pleased to be working with such an experienced company.

He adds that they share their “commitment to exceptional security systems, while attaining the highest levels of customer service.”

GardaWorld takes over security responsibilities from Commissionaires Nova Scotia who did not bid on the tender.

Wright says 32 million vehicles cross the harbour spans every year, as well as all of the pedestrians and cyclists who use the Macdonald bridge.

The contract is effective April 1.