Halifax Memorial Library:
The Memorial Library has been vacant and forgotten by HRM for the past eight years. I pledge to find a use for the building and finally get recognition for the thousands of Haligonians buried on the site who were from the Halifax Poorhouse now the site of the Doyle building next door on Spring Garden Road.
I believe the building should be used as a community centre where events for non-profits can be held and much more can be done. It is time to use this historic public asset and not let it decay any further.
Civic Museum:
In 2019 I served on the HRM Heritage Advisory Committee and put forward a motion to raise the issue of a civic museum for Halifax. The motion passed, supported by City Council, but it still seems to be on the back shelf of city hall. I will push to move this forward. HRM needs a space to showcase and educate about Halifax’s rich history, including the good, bad and ugly points of the past in a neutral environment. Other cities such as Calgary and Edmonton have civic museums. It is time to have one in Halifax and it needs to be located within the city’s core.
Truck traffic:
Halifax has long been a key Atlantic port for Canada, with a growing volume of cargo passing through the downtown area. In May 2023, the Port Authority announced a new rail project that is set to be completed by 2026, aiming to decrease truck traffic in the downtown area. I suggest collaborating with the port authorities to maximize the reduction of truck traffic and explore options for improving pedestrian and cycling connections between the port and Point Pleasant Park.
Downtown Tourism:
Tourism plays a crucial role in HRM’s economy, generating a one-billion-dollar economic benefit as stated by Discover Halifax. In 2024, Halifax is expected to experience the highest number of cruise ship visits on record, which may lead to challenges related to port and road traffic congestion in the downtown area. To address this issue, I propose conducting a formal study on the feasibility of establishing a cruise ship terminal on the Dartmouth side. Securing funding from the Provincial and Federal governments will be essential for the successful completion of this significant infrastructure project.
Additionally, implementing a wayfinding signage and storytelling program can enhance the visitor experience and promote exploration of historic sites and stories that are currently not adequately covered in existing visitor information. This initiative can be developed in partnership with key stakeholders such as the Downtown Business Association, Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Discover Halifax, and the municipality.
Centennial Pool:
Motions have been put forward to investigate the demolition of Centennial Pool, a valuable asset for downtown Halifax and District 7. As the population of the peninsula grows, it is important to maintain our athletic facilities to remain competitive with other cities. I support efforts to improve Centennial Pool and integrate it into a project with the new Cogswell District and Mi’kmaw Friendship Centre, which would greatly benefit Halifax. The Gateway Plan for the Centennial Pool block undermines the public good that the pool provides. This plan should be completely revised to include the preservation of Centennial Pool and the continued ownership of the public land for public use.