I use caution with Regional Rail - it's been said before and said again, but if CN isn't on board, nothing is going to happen. The faster discussion (I would think) is likely fast ferries, because the feds can mandate different harbour speeds etc. But, we would have to start that discussion.
Both someone123 and I have been advocating the idea of a multi-modal system of transit for a while. So I thought I'd dig out a couple google maps I created, to illustrate how a couple well setup streetcars (along a common track) could facilitate even more development and support more trips occuring on transit.
The
First is my proposed streetcar network; we've discussed it before. The theme is common: Common Track. Wherever possible, try to use common track along some of the heavy density/important destination areas so that you have higher frequency, but you only pay to install the track once. I've not shown a connection across the harbour or the Arm, but I have a note assuming that once a new MacDonald Bridge was built - such a connection could be made (the same assumption would go for a NW Arm link). This assumption will make more sense on the second map. But as you can see, I showed the proposed corridors of the Regional Centre Plan and a number of other areas that could now be used for increase density. If done right, the density could be put in first (through zoning) and the lines paid for as a mandatory bonusing or levy when redevelopment occurs (based on a sliding scale for each type of unit - pay more for more bedrooms).
The
second map is my concept for a multi-modal high order transit system for HRM. Not shown is a regional rail, but I couldn't find a good colour for it - so assume it's there. As you can see on this map, I've suggested fast ferries, LRT and streetcars. Once again - common track is an idea I've used for the idea of an LRT. Recognizing that tunnels are super expensive, I've suggested a common tunnel in DT wherever possible. The idea would be that much like Vancouver, Waterfront (where the Tim's is located on the Waterfront) would become the terminus station in the DT core and all routes would branch out from there - there would also be a link to the ferry. Scotia Square will also be a major connection point because the two common tunnels connect there again (mainly focusing on the adjacent office workers and providing a variety of connection points so as not to make one point a super busy place).
I've also suggested in the second map clear links with building future bridges, so that people aren't as fearful of building bridges/tunnels like the 3rd crossing. We have to realize that the MacDonald and McKay will eventually need to be replaced. It would be foolish not to have a 3rd link in place when the MacDonald needs to be replaced so take advantage of that and build an LRT/Bus tunnel into it. When the MacDonald is replaced, build it big enough to have a dedicated lane for transit in each direction (or for LRT). Keep in mind the suggested LRT routes should be viewed as an eventual build out in 25-40 years, so the 'first legs' of each line would likely be much shorter...
Common tracks are quite common and work out really well - Calgary's 7 Avenue has both lines running on it and if you are going down the avenue, it's great in terms of how soon a train arrives. I was in Edmonton this weekend and saw the progress being made on the new Metro Line (the original LRT is being called the Capital Line) - the two will run on the common track from Health Sciences to Churchill and then each branching off in their respective directions. Vancouver's skytrain uses a common line from Waterfront for a good portion of the Expo/Millenium lines. I can't remember where they break off though...
I've also had a lot of time to think about how we could pay for it. We have a great General Manager here in Calgary for Planning and he and I have spoken about a lot of interesting ways to facilitate major capitol projects like an LRT. Now whether HRM has these tools is a question, but if they don't - they could through discussion with the Province about charter changes. I don't know all the numbers, but I'm posting
this youtube link of a presentation he gave about various methods of raising money which he had access to in the US (which we had also in Calgary to a certain extent). If HRM could do something along the lines of the example of what Rollin gives in his presentation (using a variety of options including a small 1/2 cent sales tax) then depending on the cost, HRM could find some serious $ to help build an LRT. Maybe not pay for it on their own; but put in a good contribution which would lessen the need to go to the Feds/Province asking for a lot of money.