Active Transportation Plan

About the project

The purpose of the Campus Active Transportation Plan is to develop an accessible, sustainable and fit-for-all-ages and abilities (AAA) multi-modal transportation network within and connecting to the campus grounds. The plan will build upon previous and ongoing relevant plans within and surrounding the area.

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Project goal

From the beginning, Saint Mary’s has supported the philosophy that physical health is a strong foundation for a productive mind and spirit. The primary goal of this project is to develop an accessible, sustainable and fit-for-all-ages and abilities (AAA) multi-modal transportation network within and connecting to the campus grounds.

Public engagement can help increase the accountability and transparency of research and ensure that the project goals respond to campus issues and needs. Through engagement, SMU staff, students, faculty and Homburg Centre users can become informed about, participate in and influence SMU Campus decisions.

Pedestrian Infrastructure
Sidewalks and ramps should consider all ages and be designed and maintained to accommodate people with a variety of physical abilities.

Cycling Facilities
Being within the urban core of the Halifax Peninsula, there are a number of existing and proposed bikeways in close proximity to campus. A cycling network with active transportation amenities should be developed throughout SMU campus based on existing plans and behaviour of cyclists.

Transit Operations
Halifax Regional Municipality’s Rapid Transit Strategy proposes to build a bus rapid transit (BRT) network by 2030, which includes a route (Green Line) connecting to Saint Mary’s University. The premise is to improve service for riders by providing all-day, frequent and reliable service by implementing transit priority treatments (e.g. bus lanes) along congested corridors and reducing the number of transit stops along the route. 

Parking
There are currently 710 parking spots, 17 of which are designated accessible and should comply with regulations.

EV Charging
There is currently one parking spot that has access to an EV charging station. Sustainable EV charging stations should be considered for vehicles and micro-mobility devices.

Download the Campus Active Transportation Plan PDF