Active Transportation Plan Approved in Principle by HRM Regional Council

The Active Transportation Plan was approved in principle on November 14th, 2006 by Halifax Regional Council. 

The Active Transportation Plan is a comprehensive document that provides policy direction for the development of an Active Transportation network within HRM.  As well, technical guidelines have been created for the planning and design of the network.

It is anticipated that promotion and education will be fundamental to the increase in the number of residents using active modes of transportation for their day-to-day activities.

Below are the links to the documents and maps.

Active Transportation Functional Plan (this is a large file, so it may take a few minutes to download)

Facility Planning and Design Guidelines (this is a large file, so it may take a few minutes to download)

Maps

Existing Routes

Barriers and Destinations

Pedestrian Infrastructure

Proposed Routes

Network Facility Designations

Phasing

Network Facility Land

Summary documents are now available on the Active Transportation Documents page.  General overviews of the plan, the technical requirements and the background report are available.   The presentation to Committee of the Whole is also there. 

What is Active Transportation

Active Transportation incorporates a variety of self-propelled modes of transportation which utilize on- and off-road facilities.  These modes include in-line skating, walking, jogging, cycling and skateboarding.  Also included, but not as commonly thought of are manual wheechairs, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  Active Transportation should be viewed as being year round and available for all member of the community.

Why is HRM Undertaking an Active Transportation Plan?

We live in a society where people are less active, pollution is on the rise and health concerns are increasing.  By providing a variety of options to the general public we can encourage a more active lifestyle and decrease the reliance upon the automobile.

Many people will walk as part of their journey to work, while others will use active modes for the entire trip.  However, many won't due to time constraints, lack of facilities at their desitnation, or concerns over safety.  However, if safe, well-connected routes, with end of trip facilities were available that encouraged active transportation, then it would be more viable. 

A well-connected, safe and functional active transportation network, which will take into account all origin and destination trips, utilizing non-motorized modes of transportation will start to be developed.  Over the next 20 years, a more integrated, diverse network supporting active modes of transportation will allow for greater choice, improved health and environmental benefits.

For further information, please contact:

Roxane MacInnis, TDM Planner II

Halifax Regional Municipality

Halifax Ferry Terminal, 2nd Floor

5077 George Street

PO Box 1749

Halifax, NS B3J 3A5

macinnr[at]halifax.ca

(902) 490-4160 (phone)

(902) 490-5730 (fax)