Infrastructure Canada has confirmed that the Halifax Transit Mill Cove Ferry Service project will enter its second phase thanks to an investment of nearly 260 million CAD from the federal government, the government of Nova Scotia, and the Halifax Regional Municipality.
Phase one of the project has previously focussed on planning. Now, Phase 2 will involve the design and construction of the terminals and procurement of ferries.
The ferry terminals will be designed as net-zero facilities. This will include the new Mill Cove ferry terminal in Bedford and the replacement of the ageing Halifax Ferry Terminal with a modern facility.
Meanwhile, five high-speed, zero-emission electric ferries will be acquired to operate between the terminals and a new maintenance facility for the vehicles will be established.
This stage of the project will also involve the construction of a new bridge spanning the Bedford Highway over an existing CN rail line. This bridge will enhance the region’s transportation infrastructure and will provide a direct bus connection and an active travel path to the Mill Cove Ferry Terminal.
Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities said:Today's announcement marks a significant milestone in our commitment to helping Nova Scotians get where they need to go quickly and sustainably. By investing in state-of-the-art net-zero ferry terminals and zero-emission electric ferries, we're not just enhancing connectivity; we're paving the way for a cleaner, greener future. The Halifax Transit Mill Cove Ferry Service is a direct response to the priorities that the people of Halifax West have raised with me. It's going to get more people out of traffic and put less pollution into our air.
The Mill Cove Ferry Service is part of the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Rapid Transit Strategy and Integrated Mobility Plan.
With this announcement the province will contribute 65 million CAD, the federal government is investing 155.7 million CAD and Halifax Regional Municipality will provide more than 38 million CAD.
