Halifax targets 2016 for transit system overhaul

HALIFAX – In two years, Halifax’s Metro Transit bus system could look very different than it does today.

City council approved a study Wednesday that would seek ways to overhaul the municipality’s entire transit system.

The study started small and was framed around minor tweaks, but staff went to council to request an expanded scope when enthusiastic and ambitious responses flooded in from citizens.

“We have a public ready for change and we have a council ready for change,” said Dave Reage, manager of planning and scheduling at Metro Transit.

“This is the opportunity to make some very big changes to the transit system.”

The new look could be a massive departure from the current system of about 100 bus routes that loop around the city. Staff now have a blank slate to redo the entire transit map.

“This is one of the most important things since the election I’ve seen come to this council,” said Coun. Waye Mason.

While most councillors saw an immense opportunity, some wanted to make sure it wasn’t wasted.

Coun. Tim Outhit said the plan needs to entice new riders.

“We need to get out there and say ‘what would it take to get you, Mr. SUV driver with one person sitting in the front seat, into a train a ferry a bus?'” he said.

The cost of the expanded consultation jumped from $175,000 to $490,000 and the timeline has also been lengthened.

“It is a paradigm shift,” said Coun. Lorelei Nicoll. “There’s going to be a lot of growing pains.” 

Staff say they could have a draft plan ready by the end of 2014.

Consultation would take place throughout 2015, and implementation would start no earlier than the fall of 2016.