The province is examining ways to reduce traffic congestion on the Halifax peninsula, a move that could affect how thousands of workers commute to jobs in the downtown core.
Nova Scotia issued a request for proposals on Dec. 10 for a consultant to study core streets and access points on the peninsula. The goal is to improve traffic flow for cars, transit and commercial vehicles.
“Our government is exploring solutions to move people and goods through the Halifax peninsula, faster,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “This review will examine key streets to improve and balance how cars, transit options and heavy trucks can move as safely and efficiently as possible.”
Impact on commuters
Halifax is experiencing significant traffic delays as the city grows. The congestion affects workers’ ability to reach offices on time and slows the movement of goods through the region.
The peninsula’s geography creates natural bottlenecks, with limited entry and exit points and narrow corridors. The transportation network is under increasing strain as more people move to the region.
“Halifax is growing fast and we’re facing unprecedented congestion,” said Andy Fillmore, mayor of Halifax Regional Municipality. “It’s impacting quality of life, slowing productivity and making it harder for people to get to work, school and appointments on time.”
What the study will examine
The consultant will use an activity-based travel demand model to analyze how, when and where people travel. The model is owned by Link Nova Scotia and Halifax Regional Municipality.
The review will explore additional access points to the peninsula from the west and assess how network changes would affect traffic patterns. It will also identify ways to improve truck traffic to and from Halifax Port Authority facilities.
Recommendations could include changing the directional flow on key streets, reallocating road space or prioritizing certain types of vehicles.
Timeline and next steps
Qualified firms have until Jan. 22 to submit proposals.
The study is part of Action 1.1.3 in the Regional Transportation Plan and connects to the Highway 102 improvement project between Exits 0 and 4. The province issued a separate request for proposals for that highway work on Oct. 31.
The province and municipality are working together on the review to develop a transportation network that serves the growing region.
