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Publish and Present
.jpg "Thomas Ward, PE/SE, D.P.E. photo")
Thomas Ward, PE/SE, D.P.E.
Director, Maritime Planning
WSP
Livermore, California
The Port of Halifax, Nova Scotia is Canada’s primary Atlantic Gateway. With sheltered deep water on the great circle route between Northern Europe and New York, excellent rail connections to Central Canada, and high cargo demand on the North Atlantic seaboard, there is clear potential for Halifax to increase its container traffic. However, the future success of Halifax hinges on its ability to increase capability for serving Ultra-Class Container Vessels (UCCVs). One of Halifax’s two main container terminals is on Fairview Cove, north of two suspension bridges that prevent UCCV passage. To increase its big ship capability, the Halifax Port Authority must expand its berth space south of the bridges.
The Master Plan Team conducted extensive stakeholder outreach to identify all potential alternatives. Terminal and landside connection plans were developed for four major strategic alternatives. Close consultation with regional rail, road, and maritime stakeholders focused on refining each alternative’s logistical and operational flows. Technical experts in cruise operations, park facilities, dry bulk cargo handling, deep tunneling, bridge construction, real estate valuation, airfield clearance, rail operations, oil terminals, navigation, and site remediation were engaged to resolve specific technical issues for each alternative. Conceptual cost estimates and benefits of each alternative were thoroughly explored. A viable solution for both berthing and inland transport issues was identified and is being implemented by the HPA.
The paper will explore how the various available alternatives were identified, evaluated, and resolved into a workable Port Master Plan (PMP) for Halifax.