Province planning for future of A. Murray MacKay

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News Release

The Province is exploring options for the future of the A. Murray MacKay Bridge.

A request for proposals was issued today, July 10, for a consultant to evaluate viable long-term transportation options across the Halifax Harbour narrows.

“The MacKay is a critical transportation link for Nova Scotia, handling a significant share of commuter and commercial traffic across the Halifax Harbour,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “We have a responsibility to get this right so future generations have a safe, reliable, and efficient harbour crossing that supports economic growth, mobility, and quality of life throughout our region.”

The requested business case will:
– complete an overview of the background, context and current state of the bridge
– provide possible crossing options
– outline preliminary design for preferred crossing option
– identify cost estimates, procurement options and funding strategies.

The aim is to provide a comprehensive and detailed analysis of options to guide future decision-making and potential implementation of a preferred option.

The analysis will include financial feasibility, constructability, environmental impact, and social and cultural implications, as well as regulatory requirements, traffic flow, anticipated traffic disruptions and transit considerations.

Quotes:
“Acting now to develop a business case will ensure that we have the insights required to make a decisive, future-oriented choice that advances economic opportunity and improves connectivity for the next generation of Nova Scotia businesses and travellers.” 
— Tony Wright, CEO, Halifax Harbour Bridges

Quick facts:
-the MacKay Bridge is the only crossing that allows commercial traffic
– 65,000 vehicles cross the MacKay daily and, combined with the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge, it supports more than $120 million in economic activity annually
– the procurement process and business case development will be overseen by a steering committee including staff from Halifax Harbour Bridges, Link Nova Scotia, Halifax Regional Municipality and the Department of Public Works
– exploring options for the future of the MacKay bridge is recommended in the Regional Transportation Plan under Action 1.2.1. and is included in the government’s response to the plan
– the business case is connected to the peninsula core streets review and the passenger rail feasibility study, both underway