Halifax, federal government to spend $6.4 million in residential flood protections

Water rushing down a storm drain in Nova Scotia. (CTV/Jonathan MacInnis)

The federal government, the Halifax Regional Municipality and Halifax Water are spending a combined $6.4 million to improve stormwater management within the Upper Bissett Run watershed.

According to a news release, the project will decommission existing stormwater piping and upgrade a culvert at Cole Harbour Road and Bissett Run.

A section of Upper Bissett Run will also be exposed and restored as a natural watercourse and a new community pocket park will be created at the bank of the new section of Upper Bissett Run at Cole Harbour Road.

“Once completed, residents in the area will be better protected against damage from surface water flooding and residential basement and backyard flooding associated with high intensity rainfall events. They will also benefit from the addition of more green space for community enjoyment,” read the news release.

“I know how important restoring natural watercourses is for Dartmouth–Cole Harbour, especially when it comes to protecting our community from severe weather, said Dartmouth–Cole Harbour Liberal MP Darren Fisher.

“That’s why we’re investing to help HRM daylight and restore this section of Bissett Run, reducing the risk of flooding for residents in the Cole Harbour Commons area. It shows how governments can work together to better protect people and their homes from climate change and natural disasters.”

The federal government is investing $2,560,000 in this project through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF), while the Halifax Regional Municipality is contributing $2,819,999. An additional $1,020,001 is to be contributed by Halifax Water.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page