N.S. government bill would give sweeping power over transportation to public works minister
The Progressive Conservative government in Nova Scotia has introduced new legislation that would give the Public Works Minister, Fred Tilley, significant powers over transit and transportation infrastructure across the province. The proposed changes to the Joint Regional Transportation Agency Act aim to address traffic congestion and improve transportation options for residents.
Minister Tilley emphasized the importance of providing growing communities with reliable, efficient, and safe transportation options. The proposed amendments would rebrand the Joint Regional Transportation Agency as Link Nova Scotia, expanding its jurisdiction to cover the entire province instead of just Halifax Regional Municipality and surrounding areas.
Under the new legislation, Minister Tilley would have the authority to instruct municipalities to construct, modify, reconfigure, or remove transportation infrastructure within their jurisdiction to enhance the movement of people and goods. Link Nova Scotia would also be empowered to take on the management and assets of transit, rail, or roads to improve transportation throughout the province.
Despite the increased powers granted by the legislation, Minister Tilley assured that the government does not intend to take over transit responsibilities from municipalities. He stressed the importance of collaboration with local governments to ensure that projects beneficial to Nova Scotians and the economy are completed successfully.
One project that has garnered attention is the Windsor Street exchange, which Halifax Regional Municipality recently decided to abandon due to escalating costs and the absence of dedicated bus lanes. Minister Tilley refrained from speculating on whether he would use his new powers to compel HRM to proceed with the project but expressed eagerness to work with the council on future decisions.
Opposition leaders have raised concerns about the bill, accusing the government of seeking to consolidate power rather than support transit initiatives. NDP Leader Claudia Chender criticized the lack of funding and support for the long-standing bus rapid transit plan in HRM, while Interim Liberal Leader Derek Mombourquette labeled the legislation as disrespectful to municipalities’ autonomy.
The introduction of this legislation is part of a broader trend in Nova Scotia, where the Progressive Conservatives have been advancing bills that grant the government increased control over various aspects of governance. Premier Tim Houston recently introduced omnibus legislation that includes provisions allowing the dismissal of the auditor general without cause and restricting access to certain reports. Another bill proposes greater government oversight of universities and eliminates the requirement for annual accountability reports on emergency department closures.
Overall, the proposed changes to the Joint Regional Transportation Agency Act reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure in Nova Scotia. By expanding Link Nova Scotia’s mandate and empowering Minister Tilley to make strategic decisions, the province aims to improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and support economic growth through efficient and sustainable transportation systems.
