Proposed emergency exits for Upper Tantallon neighbourhood in wrong spots, residents say

Residents of Westwood Hills in Halifax are expressing their concerns over proposed emergency exits that they feel won’t make everyone safer in the event of another wildfire. The subdivision was evacuated two years ago during a dangerous wildfire, highlighting the need for additional emergency routes.

Nick Horne, a long-time resident of Westwood Hills, expressed his disappointment with the proposed emergency exit options, stating that they do not address the needs of the entire community. Currently, the subdivision only has one entrance and exit, leading to significant traffic congestion during the previous wildfire evacuation.

The staff report going to Halifax regional council outlines four potential emergency exit options from Westwood Hills to Highway 103, as well as suggestions for connecting the neighborhood to an adjacent subdivision. However, residents like Horne believe that the proposed locations are too far for many residents in the top half of the subdivision to access in a timely manner.

One suggested option is to connect the neighborhood to Highway 103 via Hemlock Drive, which is the shortest distance at approximately 500 meters. However, residents are advocating for an emergency exit off Wright Lake Run, which would provide access to Pipeline Road, a former logging road that connects to both Highway 103 and Highway 101.

During a recent video conference call with Coun. Nancy Hartling, residents expressed their frustrations about the exclusion of Wright Lake Run as a potential exit route. Hartling acknowledged their concerns and pledged to seek more answers at the upcoming council meeting. She also plans to initiate community consultation with residents in the area to gather feedback on the proposed emergency exits.

While Hartling previously stated that an emergency exit may not be implemented before the upcoming fire season, residents like Horne emphasize the importance of having a viable route in place as soon as possible. With ongoing development in the area, including a new wind farm at Melville Lake, there may be opportunities to leverage new infrastructure for emergency purposes.

Overall, residents of Westwood Hills are advocating for emergency exits that will provide safe and efficient evacuation routes for all residents in the event of future emergencies. Their voices are being heard, and efforts are being made to address their concerns and prioritize community safety.