Mayor Fillmore advocates for cost savings on Regional Centre bike network
Today, Halifax Regional Council received a cost update from municipal staff on the Regional Centre All Ages and Abilities (AAA) Bicycle Network.
In June 2025, Council directed staff to write a staff report that includes a list of bike lane projects proposed for fiscal years 2026-29 (with their estimated budget requirement); feasibility assessments of alternative network solutions that could reduce future costs; and opportunities for additional external funding sources.
Today, Mayor Andy Fillmore advocated for an alternative that would direct staff to consider further cost-saving alternatives, even if they do not meet the AAA facility design standard.
Mayor Fillmore is providing the following statement:
“We need to create a cost-effective transportation network that works for everyone. But during an affordability crisis, we can’t limit ourselves to the most expensive solutions.
The total projected cost of the current bike network design has gone from $25 million to $85 million - an increase of $60 million. I cannot support that while families are struggling with rising utility rates, grocery store bills, and childcare costs.
Given the scale of cost escalation, it would be irresponsible not to examine any and all lower-cost alternatives - including those that fall outside the AAA standard.
Many cities deliver safe, comfortable cycling routes using tactical or interim materials at a fraction of the cost. We can still prioritize safety while being flexible about design standards where appropriate.
There’s a lot of work being done to give Halifax a modern transportation network, including bus rapid transit, fast ferries, and the province’s core streets review. Today’s discussion is part of that work.
This is not about scaling back the bike network. It’s about quickly and responsibly delivering a cost-effective, complete system.”
Background:
- The Regional Centre All Ages and Abilities (AAA) Cycling Network was first identified as a priority through the Halifax Regional Municipality’s 2014 Active Transportation Priorities Plan and further reinforced in the 2017 Integrated Mobility Plan.
- The entire project was initially estimated to cost $25 million, with the provincial and federal governments committing $20.8 million toward the delivery.
- By 2025, the total projected cost of the AAA program had increased to $85 million, representing an increase of $60 million.
- Of that amount, $66.3 million in work remains to be completed, with federal and provincial funding expected to be fully exhausted after 2026-27. That means there will be $56.9 million in outstanding costs that will fall on the municipality.
