HALIFAX, Nova Scotia — The Nova Scotia government is planning to study the possibilities of developing light rail in Halifax and commuter rail in the area of the province’s largest city, which accounts for 63% of the Nova Scotia population.
The government is seeking qualified consultants to carry out a rail feasibility study through a request for supplier qualification issued on Tuesday, Aug. 19.
“Passenger and light rail has the potential to reshape travel for Nova Scotians by providing a safe, reliable and high-capacity form of transit service,” Public Works Minister Fred Tilley said in a press release. “While a project like this could be transformative, it’s also incredibly complex. The passenger rail feasibility study will ensure that any decisions related to rail in the province are researched, evidence-based and tailored for Nova Scotians.”
The study would consider possible routes, conceptual designs for options along those routes, evaluate route options, and develop a long term strategy to develop the service. Consultants have until Sept. 16 to respond; the request is available here.
Issuance of the request follows the Aug. 6 release of a regional transportation plan that calls for policies to reduce the area’s reliance on automobiles, provide more affordable transportation options, and address environmental concerns. The full plan is available here, with an executive summary here.
