Halifax Water plans major upgrades within Windsor Street exchange project

Halifax Water is gearing up for major infrastructure upgrades as part of the Windsor Street exchange redevelopment project. The utility is planning to replace crucial components essential for delivering water to the peninsula, with a focus on addressing high-risk areas.

Recently, Halifax Water submitted a request to the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board for approval of $69.2 million in construction and design costs for various infrastructure improvements. The utility emphasized the urgency of these upgrades, stating that completing the work during the ongoing construction in the area would be more cost-effective and minimize disruption to the public.

A significant portion of the allocated funds, around $43 million, will be allocated towards upgrading local water, wastewater, and stormwater systems. Aging pipes nearing the end of their lifespan will be replaced, with a strategic focus on aligning the infrastructure with the new roadway layout to optimize efficiency and minimize the need for easements on private property.

Another crucial aspect of the project involves replacing the North End Feeder (NEF) transmission main, a critical water supply conduit for the peninsula’s north end. The current pre-stressed concrete cylinder pipe, which was constructed in the mid-1970s, is approaching the end of its expected lifespan. With an investment of $13.7 million, a new transmission main will be installed at a shallower depth and along a different alignment to enhance water supply reliability and accommodate future demand.

Additionally, $12.2 million will be allocated towards a sewer separation initiative to support anticipated housing growth in the Young Street area. This project will involve installing a new stormwater pipe to connect to an existing pipe on Bayne Street, enhancing the area’s wastewater management infrastructure.

While the Windsor Street exchange redevelopment project will kick off this year, additional upgrades for the Young Street sewer separation and North End Feeder main will be required in the future. Halifax Water plans to seek approval for these funds separately.

Funding for the construction costs will primarily come from debt financing, supplemented by potential federal funding from the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF). The utility is awaiting the outcome of their funding application to proceed with the necessary upgrades.

The overall Windsor Street exchange redevelopment project aims to enhance traffic flow for both vehicles and pedestrians, introducing new cycling and pedestrian pathways along with transit-only lanes. The $150 million initiative is a collaborative effort between the federal and provincial governments, Halifax Water, and the Port of Halifax, with the municipality contributing approximately $53 million towards the project.

As construction commences and infrastructure upgrades take shape, Halifax Water remains committed to ensuring a sustainable and resilient water system for the peninsula’s residents and businesses.