Nova Scotia takes next step toward passenger rail study

CITYnews halifax / By Mark Hodgins

The Nova Scotia government is moving forward with plans to look into passenger rail in the Halifax region.

The province says it has issued a request for standing qualification to find qualified consultants to carry out a feasibility study on passenger and light rail.

The idea is one of the “key actions” included in the recently released Regional Transportation Plan.

“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.”

The government says the study will look into potential regional and urban corridors, put forward design concepts in the selected corridors and will include a long-term transit phasing strategy to support future growth.

Firms have been asked to respond by Sept. 16.