Articles tagged with "Government and Policy"

The Nova Scotia government has opened new student housing at the Nova Scotia Community College's Ivany campus in Dartmouth, providing accommodations for 200 students. This initiative is part of the province's larger housing plan, aiming to ease housing demands and support students. The $58.6 million project includes various suite options with full amenities and is strategically developed to enhance the learning environment. This new development marks an important step in addressing housing needs and was completed on schedule and on budget.

Canada has designated four offshore wind energy areas off the coast of Nova Scotia, marking a step forward in developing the region’s offshore wind industry. The designated areas include French Bank, Middle Bank, Sable Island Bank, and Sydney Bight. The initiative aims to license 5 GW of offshore wind by 2030, enhancing Nova Scotia's potential as a clean energy exporter. The public's feedback influenced the designation of these areas, and a competitive licensing process for private companies will follow.

Nova Scotia is prioritizing wood construction and heating in public buildings to support the local forestry sector, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance energy security. The government will focus on using local wood products like mass timber and wood pellets, aiming to foster a circular economy and create jobs. This initiative aligns with the province's goals of a low-carbon future and economic self-reliance. Departments will prioritize wood products in new construction, renovations, and heating conversions for government-funded projects.

The Nova Scotia Department of Public Works announced plans to repave sections of Highways 101, 104, and 105. Approximately 7 kilometers of roads will be resurfaced to enhance the movement of people and goods, supporting economic growth. The project is part of a broader $161 million investment in road infrastructure set to be completed by late fall. This initiative aims to improve safety and efficiency on key trade routes.

Demolition has begun at the former St. Patrick’s-Alexandra school in Halifax, which has remained vacant since its closure in 2010. The site became a safety concern after several fires were reported in March. The local community is focusing on transforming the area safely, addressing previous fire and safety issues.

The Government of Nova Scotia has announced plans to repave 19 kilometers of Highway 102 in Hants County. The project will cover three sections of the southbound lanes and is aimed at improving a critical transportation route. Two segments are already open for tender, with completion expected by late fall. This is part of a $161 million commitment to highway and road resurfacing this year.

Nova Scotia's public works minister, Fred Tilley, announced that it will be several years before construction begins on a project to protect the Chignecto Isthmus from flooding. The province is currently working on pre-engineering studies and consultations with New Brunswick to upgrade this crucial land link. This project is a part of infrastructure efforts to safeguard against rising flood risks.

Halifax's municipal staff presented a plan to construct a permanent soccer stadium in its downtown area. The proposed 8,500-seat stadium aims to serve professional teams and community events but faces logistical challenges as it would require land currently used by other groups. Funding remains a significant hurdle, with the city rejecting financial responsibility. The total estimated development costs range from $116 million to $123 million, and further public consultations are anticipated.

A $7.4 billion hospital expansion project is currently underway in downtown Halifax. The site preparations include the installation of fencing, site trailers, and heavy equipment, as well as the erection of two tower cranes. This development, adjacent to the QEII Halifax Infirmary, is recognized as the most ambitious healthcare infrastructure project in Atlantic Canada.

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) is lending $97 million to support the Wedgeport Wind energy project in Argyle, Nova Scotia. This project involves the construction and installation of 12 wind turbines, providing 84 megawatts of renewable energy to power over 30,000 homes. The initiative will create up to 85 jobs during construction and more opportunities for operations and maintenance. The CIB aims to bridge financial gaps for clean energy projects in Nova Scotia, with the Wedgeport Wind project being a key part of their initiatives in the region.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston is proposing a significant expansion of the province's offshore wind energy sector. This initiative is in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney's vision of transforming Canada into an "energy superpower." Houston is seeking federal funding from the Liberal government to support this ambitious project.

Build Nova Scotia announced the completion of the blasting phase at the QEII Halifax Infirmary construction site for the new acute care tower. The project now moves to mechanically breaking rocks near the existing hospital, which is a noisy but necessary step. The new tower, on track to open in 2031, will offer expanded facilities such as 216 beds, a larger emergency department, and advanced diagnostic units. The project is part of the QEII Health Sciences Centre Redevelopment, ranked as one of Canada's top infrastructure projects.