The Nova Scotia government has unveiled its largest-ever capital investment, committing $2.35 billion this year to infrastructure projects across the province. The plan includes major funding for healthcare, public housing, schools, and transportation, aiming to address long-standing challenges and support economic growth.

“This year’s capital plan will position us for future growth,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister John Lohr in a government release. “These investments will support Nova Scotians and unlock opportunities to grow the economy.”

Healthcare Investments

A significant portion of the funding is allocated to hospital expansions and upgrades, with the government stating that these investments will improve access to healthcare and modernize medical facilities. The plan includes:

• $750.9 million for the Halifax Infirmary expansion and healthcare redevelopment in Cape Breton.
• $131.9 million for hospital construction and renovations in Amherst, Yarmouth, the South Shore, and at the IWK in Halifax.
• $32 million to replace aging medical equipment.
• $19.2 million for modular dialysis units.

Additionally, $90.9 million is earmarked for the One Person, One Record project, which aims to modernize and digitize patient health records.

Public Housing and Infrastructure

The plan includes $47.4 million for new public housing units, which the government describes as the first major investment in public housing in more than 20 years. Another $31.6 million will be used to modernize and repair existing public housing.

School infrastructure is also a key focus, with $210 million dedicated to building and renovating schools. The government says three new schools will open during the 2025-26 school year, with two more planned for Bedford and Dartmouth.

Road and Transportation Upgrades

The government is also directing over $500 million to road and highway improvements through its Five-Year Highway Improvement Plan, including:

• $60 million for bridge repairs.
• $55 million for gravel road improvements.

Other funding allocations include $9.2 million for provincial park upgrades and $22.5 million for storm damage repairs.

Long-Term Development

According to the government, this year’s capital plan builds on the $1.6 billion investment from 2024-25 and will continue to fund projects over multiple years. The funding is part of the 2025-26 budget and remains subject to approval by the legislature.

With files from provincial release