Monday, July 13, 2026
The Government of Nova Scotia announced that it is exploring options for the future of the A. Murray MacKay Bridge, with the issue of a request for proposals for a consultant to evaluate viable long-term transportation options across the Halifax Harbour narrows.
“The MacKay is 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 requestedbusiness 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.
The aim is to provide a comprehensive and detailed analysis of options to guide future decision making and potential implementation of a preferred option.
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.
“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,” said Tony Wright, CEO, Halifax Harbour Bridges.
The MacKay bridge is the only crossing that allows commercial traffic, with 65,000 vehicles crossing the bridge daily.
The procurement process and business case development will be overseen by a steering committee including staff from Halifax Harbour Bridges, Link Nova Scotia, the Halifax Regional Municipality and the Department of Public Works.
Featured image: The A. Murray MacKay Bridge spanning Halifax Harbour (Halifax Harbour Bridges)
