A Canada-based engineering firm, WSP, has secured a significant contract worth $1.1 million to lead the preliminary design work aimed at enhancing a segment of Highway 102 in Halifax. The announcement was made by the provincial government on Tuesday following a public procurement process that highlighted the need for infrastructural improvements in the region.
This project specifically focuses on the stretch of Highway 102 located between exits 0 and 4C, which connects Bayers Road to Highway 107. WSP's primary responsibility will be to assess the corridor requirements for this critical area. The preliminary report detailing their findings is expected to take one year to complete, indicating a thorough and methodical approach to understanding the transportation needs of the corridor.
Public Works Minister Fred Tilley emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This is an important step forward as we are moving from identifying problems to finding solutions.” His comments reflect the government's commitment not only to address the existing issues along Highway 102 but also to strategically plan for the future of the transportation network in Halifax. Tilley highlighted the significance of transforming this crucial part of the infrastructure to cater to the needs of upcoming generations.
In conjunction with the ongoing assessments and projections for Highway 102, Minister Tilley is also exploring additional measures to alleviate traffic congestion in the area in the interim. He mentioned potential strategies such as utilizing Halifax bus lanes as high-occupancy vehicle lanes and synchronizing traffic lights to improve traffic flow. These complementary efforts illustrate the government’s proactive stance in addressing transportation challenges while long-term solutions are being planned and developed.
As part of the project, WSP is set to collaborate closely with Link Nova Scotia and the Department of Public Works. This collaboration aims to ensure that all stakeholders are aligned and that the outcomes of the preliminary design work reflect the community’s needs and expectations. The integration of various entities in the project underscores the shared goal of enhancing both safety and efficiency on the region's highways.
By investing in these improvements to Highway 102, the provincial government demonstrates a significant commitment to enhancing the overall transportation infrastructure of Halifax. The effective management and improvement of transport corridors are vital for the economic and social development of the area. The focus on traffic flow, safety measures, and future planning are all integral components of a sustainable transportation strategy that the government is keen to establish.
