Nova Scotia looks into feasibility of commuter rail

Halifax is looking at a commuter rail service to deal with downtown congestion.

There are trains that runs into downtown Halifax but there may soon be other types of trains on the tracks.

The province confirmed yesterday that a call has been sent out for qualified parties to put together a feasibility study on passenger and light rail.

It’s an idea that is still up to seven years away according to transportation professor, Ashan Habib.

“Commuter rail is a long-term goal, but in the short term, bus rapid transit was a wonderful idea,” he said.

The Government of Nova Scotia release says the study will look into potential corridors, design concepts and a long-term plan for future growth.

“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,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “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.”

“I completely support the idea of doing another feasibility study,” says Bedford-Wentworth Councillor, Jean St-Amand.

St-Amand’s district is just one that would be along a potential route.

Up until now, those studies have shown there isn’t the population density to justify an investment in passenger rail.

“A lot has changed in the municipality and in the region in general so another look at getting up-to-date information and something to compare against the information that was gathered last is a good idea.”

With growing population and more cars on the roads, ferry service could be a more realistic goal in the short term. Acquiring the necessary land for a Bedford terminal is ongoing.

“There is a belief that this is a central part of how we are going to get people in and around the city and it’s one of the few corridors that we have that doesn’t really technically have any congestion so it’s a valid opportunity for us to look at,” St-Amand says.

A Bedford to Halifax fast-ferry is a commuting option Chris Baxter would use.

“I think it’s a great way to get downtown, take the water right here so you might as well take a ride on the water then driving around,” Baxter said.

As for the prospect of rail, interested firms have been asked to respond by Sept. 16.

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