The bridge is operated by a concession company Penang Bridge Sdn Bhd (PDSB). Malaysia's governement and PDSB are negotiating the funding arrangements for the proposed expansion.

Traffic volume increased 1.5% in the latest financial year, to 19.1 million passenger car units per kilometre. It has consistently exceeded the theoretical maximum of 18.25 million PCU/km since 2001.

Rating Agency Malaysia this week reaffirmed Penang Bridge's favourable rating based on a strong financial position and its strategic role as concessionaire for the sole road link to the island. However the agency pointed out that a second link to Penang is one of the goverment's proposals under the 9th Malaysia Plan, subject to a feasibility study being conducted. The prospect of a second crossing remains a threat to PBSB, said the agency.