Nova Scotia considering expansive transit service between rural communities and Halifax

A highway in Nova Scotia is pictured. (Source: Government of Nova Scotia)

The Nova Scotia government is considering implementing a transit service that would connect Halifax with rural communities within 100 kilometres of the city.

The province says it is accepting requests for information to measure service provider interest and to gauge the ability to run the prospective transit system. The requests will also outline any potential challenges and opportunities.

“Frequent, reliable and affordable transit service means more options to access jobs, schools, healthcare and daily needs,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley in a news release. “When developing the Regional Transportation Plan, we heard loud and clear across citizen and community engagement sessions that this kind of regional public transit service is needed.”

The release did not say how the possible system would impact Halifax Transit, which currently offers routes as far out as Middle Sackville, Timberlea, Herring Cove and Porters Lake. The possible 100-kilometre range would possibly go beyond these locations.

The province, which launched its Regional Transportation Plan last August, has taken an active interest in Halifax transportation issues. It is working with the municipality to examine core streets and access points to improve congestion.

The deadline to submit requests for information is May 20.

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