**** HRM Release
Construction of Westwood Hills emergency egress road
The Halifax Regional Municipality is advising residents of the upcoming construction of a new emergency egress route in the Westwood Hills community. The project will enhance emergency access, strengthen community resilience and support emergency preparedness.
Construction is anticipated to begin in early October 2026 and be completed by late December 2026, subject to weather and contractor scheduling. Some final aspects of the project, such as restoration work, may take place in spring 2027.
Time: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (weekdays)
Work details: This project will establish an emergency egress route connecting Westwood Boulevard and Highway 103 to provide an additional means of access for emergency response and community evacuation when required.
The approximately 500-metre gravel road will create a gated emergency connection between the Westwood Hills subdivision and the provincial highway network. Work is expected to include:
Site preparation and grading
Rock excavation and removal activities may be required, including limited blasting, if necessary
Construction of an approximately 8-metre-wide gravel access road
Installation of a gated entrance and access control measures
This project supports the Strengthening Communities and Moving Better priorities in the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan by enhancing emergency access, improving community resilience, and providing critical infrastructure to support public safety.
Traffic impacts: Residents can expect increased construction-related traffic in the area throughout the project. Temporary stop-and-go traffic and lane reductions may be required at times to facilitate construction activities.
Egress road access: Upon completion, the emergency egress route will provide a controlled connection between Westwood Boulevard and Highway 103 for use during emergencies. The route is not intended for day-to-day public use and will remain closed to regular traffic through controlled access gates. In an emergency, authorized municipal staff and emergency responders will be able to open the route to support emergency operations and community evacuation, if needed.
The municipality appreciates residents' patience and cooperation while this work is underway.
Learn more about this project at: halifax.ca/westwoodegress
