Nova Scotia government orders study to assess MacKay bridge replacement

The Nova Scotia government has initiated a comprehensive engineering assessment and consultation process to determine the fate of the A. Murray MacKay Bridge. The study, expected to last 18 months, aims to answer whether the bridge, which spans Halifax Harbour and opened in 1970, should be repaired, rebuilt, or replaced entirely with a tunnel. Public Works Minister Fred Tilley described the move as "due diligence," emphasizing the need to "build a corridor for the future."

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This is due diligence. We know we have the time to do this right. And if we’re going to do it, we need to make sure that we build a corridor for the future.

The assessment will delve into the bridge's current condition, explore various crossing options, develop preliminary designs, and identify potential costs and procurement strategies. A previous study in 2021 estimated the replacement cost at over $1 billion. Tilley stated that the report's findings will guide the most appropriate option for the transportation corridor over the Narrows, adding that any plan involving Africville lands would be a "non-starter."

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At the end of the day, getting this report, it’s going to provide information as to what would be the most appropriate option for the transportation corridor over the Narrows.

This government-led study comes shortly after Halifax Harbour Bridges (HHB) issued its own tender for an engineering study focused on the bridge's deck and rehabilitation options for the next 75 years. The timing has drawn criticism from opposition parties. Interim Liberal Leader Iain Rankin accused the government of "kicking the can down the road" and failing to deliver major infrastructure projects. NDP Leader Claudia Chender questioned the government's seriousness, demanding clarity on project timelines, funding, federal support, and plans to reduce congestion and support regional growth.

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We have limited time to get this right. Just like the Halifax Infirmary redevelopment and the Atlantic Loop, this government continues to show it can’t deliver major infrastructure projects that Nova Scotians can count on.