‘Unprecedented congestion’: Proposals sought for traffic solutions on Halifax peninsula

The province of Nova Scotia and the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) have issued a request for proposals to solve traffic problems on the Halifax peninsula.

Government issued a request Wednesday for a consultant to examine core streets and access points.

A review was recommended in the province’s Regional Transportation Plan, which was released in August.

Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore says the city is facing “unprecedented congestion.”

“It’s impacting quality of life, slowing productivity and making it harder for people to get to work, school and appointments on time,” he said.

“Investments in transportation aren’t just about adding a new way to get around, they’re about rethinking how we move through our region. This review is an important first step, and HRM is working with the Province to ensure we have a transportation network that works for everyone.”

The province and HRM are looking for solutions to manage congestion, improve safety and make travelling more efficient, as well as strategies to improve the city’s transportation network.

“Our government is exploring solutions to move people and goods through the Halifax peninsula, faster,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley in a provincial news release.

“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.”

The Cogswell redevelopment, transit and bike lanes will all be under provincial review.

“I think it’s very realistic,” Tilley said. “When we look at our ability to model the traffic flows, we can do what if scenarios. We can change signals, we can change configuration of roads.”

The province says the review will include detailed modelling work using a tool that simulates how, when and where people travel. The review will also:

• explore additional access points to the Halifax peninsula from the west
• assess impacts of potential network changes
• identify strategies to improve heavy truck traffic to and from Halifax Port Authority facilities
• provide recommendations to move the most people and goods in the most efficient way through constrained corridors

Qualified firms have until Jan. 22, 2026, to submit their proposals.

Bike lanes

Halifax council is currently amid budget discussions, which include a nearly $55-million price tag for the Triple-A bike network over the next three years. The total cost is pegged at $93 million.

“I think we can all understand that pouring 2,000 pounds of concrete is more expensive than using a few cans of paint,” Fillmore said. “And we can build the bike network out faster.”

Coun. Tony Mancini called for a report analyzing the cost of bike lane projects.

“Even though we’re in favour of a connected network, it’s not at all cost,” he said. “We have to take a look at that. How could we do it that’s more affordable?”

-With files from CTV News Atlantic’s Callum Smith

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