Opposition says province dragging heels on transit improvements
Posted Aug 20, 2025 05:06:36 AM.
Last Updated Aug 20, 2025 11:06:09 AM.
The province’s opposition party is accusing the Houston government of dragging its heels on addressing traffic congestion in the Halifax Regional Municipality.
The comments follow the province’s announcement that it has issued a request for standing qualification to find consultants to carry out a feasibility study on passenger and light rail.
NDP MLA Paul Wozney released a statement shortly after, saying studying rail is a start, but the province needs to focus on actionable solutions now.
“Halifax ranks among the worst Canadian cities for rush hour congestion and travel times – and anyone who regularly travels around the municipality knows this. We need to work toward moving people into, out of, and around Halifax as efficiently and affordably as possible, and that work needed to start yesterday,” said Wozney.
He says that includes expanding active transportation options and investing in bus rapid transit.
Wozney added that commuters stuck in gridlock can’t wait any longer for another study on a project that may or may not happen years down the line.
“Instead of taking action today, the Houston government is only now looking for consultants to study the feasibility of passenger and light rail. Studying rail is a start, but this government also needs to work on things that are actionable and feasible right now – like expanding active transportation options and investing in bus rapid transit,” he said.
According to the province, firms have been asked to respond by Sept. 16.
