Planning for the Future of the A. Murray MacKay Bridge

Aerial view of the A Murray MacKay Bridge facing toward Dartmouth. Tufts Cove is visible in the background.

The Province is exploring options for the future of the A. Murray MacKay Bridge. A request for proposals was issued today, July 10, for a consultant to evaluate viable long-term transportation options across the Halifax Harbour narrows by preparing a business case.

The aim is to provide a practical roadmap for implementation of the preferred crossing option for this essential piece of transportation infrastructure.

The analysis will include financial feasibility, constructability, environmental impact, and social and cultural implications, as well as regulatory requirements, traffic flow, anticipated traffic disruptions and transit considerations.

“The MacKay is as a critical transportation link for Nova Scotia, handling a significant share of commuter and commercial traffic across the Halifax Harbour,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “We have a responsibility to get this right so future generations have a safe, reliable, and efficient harbour crossing that supports economic growth, mobility, and quality of life throughout our region.”

The requested business case will:

  • complete an overview of the background, context and current state of the bridge
  • provide possible crossing options
  • outline preliminary design for preferred crossing option
  • identify cost estimates, procurement options and funding strategies.

Exploring options for the future of the MacKay Bridge is recommended in the Regional Transportation Plan under Action 1.2.1.

Tender website
Halifax Harbour Bridges website

Quick Facts

  • the MacKay bridge is the only crossing that allows commercial traffic
  • 65,000 vehicles cross the MacKay daily. Combined with the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge, it supports more than $120 million in economic activity annually
  • the procurement process and business case development will be overseen by a steering committee including staff from Halifax Harbour Bridges, Link Nova Scotia, Halifax Regional Municipality and the Department of Public Works
  • the business case is connected to the peninsula core streets review and the passenger rail feasibility study, both underway

Quotes

“Acting now to develop a business case will ensure that we have the insights required to make a decisive, future-oriented choice that advances economic opportunity and improves connectivity for the next generation of Nova Scotia businesses and travellers.” – Tony Wright, CEO, Halifax Harbour Bridges