Release:
“In June, after learning that costs had dramatically escalated and realizing that some bike lane plans could worsen traffic congestion, I proposed that HRM Council pause the roll-out of the bike network. This would allow time to consult with key stakeholders and ensure that the bike network wouldn’t compromise public safety and economic competitiveness. The majority of Council voted against hitting pause.
At the July 8 meeting of Council I again made the case, this time specifically for the Morris Street segment of the bike network, that the plan should be halted while options other than creating a one-way street were considered. The CAO also cautioned the Council that if they proceeded with making Morris Street one-way that the Province could intervene. The majority of Council disagreed and proceeded with a plan to make Morris Street one-way.
Bike lane concerns have been raised by the Halifax Port Authority, the container terminal operator PSA Halifax, Emera, Ambassatours, and local residents. Most recently, Emergency Health Services said that pre-hospital care delivery and public safety could be compromised if Morris Street proceeded as planned.
These types of interventions should not be ignored. They’re data-driven warnings about operational impacts and public risk. As Mayor, I will not ignore threats to our economic competitiveness, risks to public safety, or alarm bells about dramatic cost escalations.
It is not surprising that the Premier has asked the municipality to reverse its recent decision to make Morris Street one-way to accommodate new bike lanes. The province had made it clear that provincial intervention would be an option if municipal actions are inconsistent with broader goals of economic growth, easing congestion and enhancing public safety.
Halifax, home to half of Nova Scotia’s population and more than half of its economy, is growing faster than ever. It is a shared responsibility of municipal, provincial, and federal governments to ensure our city functions and our infrastructure keeps pace. I will listen, learn and collaborate to achieve our shared objectives as I believe strong leadership hears all voices and engages key partners to deliver the best outcomes.” – Mayor Andy Fillmore
