Build Nova Scotia and Nova Scotia Public Works Minister Kim Masland have recognized the need for a review of the waterfront in Halifax due to increased tourism and population growth. With the anticipated influx of cruise ships and new ferries being added to the Halifax Transit fleet, the current ferry terminal may not be able to handle the increased traffic. Masland mentioned the potential need for a new waterfront ferry terminal, as the current one is insufficient. There is a plan to review and strategize the development of the waterfront in order to accommodate the growing number of visitors and residents in the area.
David Benoit, president and CEO of Build Nova Scotia, emphasized the importance of updating the waterfront’s strategic plan in order to continue developing the area as one of the most visited destinations in Nova Scotia. He pointed out that the current state of the waterfront is a result of a previous strategic plan, and now it is time to update and progress it further. Benoit mentioned that the plan is currently being updated and progressing in collaboration with various stakeholders. The Downtown Halifax Business Commission expressed excitement and interest in the new waterfront plan, highlighting the importance of better connections between ferries, buses, and bikes in the downtown area.
The Downtown Halifax Business Commission is eagerly awaiting the release of the new waterfront plan as they continue to work on their Downtown Halifax Vision 2030. They believe that the waterfront plays a crucial role in the city’s downtown area for both visitors and residents. The commission expressed the need for improved connections between different modes of transportation in the area and is looking forward to collaborating with Build Nova Scotia to achieve this goal. They emphasized the significance of incorporating the waterfront into the overall development plan for the city.
The anticipated increase in summer traffic on the Halifax waterfront is a driving force behind the need for a comprehensive review and strategic plan for the area. With cruise ships, new ferries, and a growing population, there is a recognized need to ensure that the waterfront can accommodate the expected surge in visitors. Masland highlighted the busy nature of the waterfront in recent summers and emphasized the importance of stepping back to assess the situation and make a plan for future development. This proactive approach is aimed at creating a more functional and efficient waterfront that can cater to the needs of both residents and tourists.
Build Nova Scotia and various stakeholders are actively working on updating and progressing the strategic plan for Halifax’s waterfront. Benoit stressed the significance of having a clear and updated plan in place to guide the continued development of the waterfront as a top destination in Nova Scotia. The goal is to ensure that the waterfront can continue to attract visitors and residents by providing a well-connected and well-developed space. The collaboration between Build Nova Scotia and the Downtown Halifax Business Commission reflects a shared commitment to enhancing the waterfront and integrating it into the broader development plans for the city.
