Lisa Delaney, News Contributor
Around this time of year Halifax usually gets an upgrade, aesthetically speaking, and in the past year Halifax has received more than just a facelift. The expansion of Metro Transit’s service in Dartmouth – changing atmosphere of the downtown scene – and the makeover of the Halifax Farmers’ Market all signify the beginning of change.
The Halifax peninsula is the hub of the municipality, but the city centre might soon move over the bridge and across the harbour. Over the past year, downtown Dartmouth has experienced some modifications, the biggest being the planned expansion of the Metro Transit terminal next to the Dartmouth Sportsplex. The project will cost an estimated $9.5 million, including 16 bus depots, and will likely begin construction in October 2010.
Dartmouth resident and fourth-year Dalhousie student Trevor Ritchie is excited about the change in design and the possibility for more bus routes.
“The one thing I would like to see in this terminal is space,” he said. “The current terminal is too small for the amount of commuters who use it.”
Those in favour of the expansion argue the revamped terminal will better serve the 17,000 daily users with wheelchair accessibility and enhanced safety features.
The transit system is not the only part of the city receiving an overhaul. The Halifax Farmers’ Market, previously located in the Brewery Market on Lower Water Street, has a new name and location on Marginal Road next to Pier 21. Now known as the Halifax Seaport Famers’ Market, the Saturday morning market boasts local goods and produce, and makes buying fresh and local a possibility for Haligonians and students. With its refurbished, eco-friendly building, the new market is extending hours and offering free Saturday parking.
While the new market has already garnered praise for its expansive 4,500 square-foot shopping space, solar panels and rooftop garden, some vendors have been less optimistic about the changes. As of Seaport Market’s opening day approximately 70 merchants had chosen to stay at the old location.
Despite this, many are still excited about the potential growth opportunities. Long-time market vendor Norbert Kungl has been selling his produce at the market for 19 years. “We’ve become a victim of our own success,” he said.
Kungl believes the previous location is simply not large enough to handle the growth in consumer demand. He explained the new location also gives the merchants a sense of permanence: “We’ve got a secure future here.”
The new market hopes to grow to accommodate patrons looking for daily shopping opportunities.
The past year has brought a lot of growth and development to the city but new beginnings also bring endings. Returning Dalhousie students will be particularly saddened by the closure of some downtown favourites – including Pat’s Grocery on Cornwallis Street, gelato bar Dio Mio, and popular club Bubble’s Mansion – which all shut their doors for good.
But restaurant operator and club owner Brad Hartlin isn’t focusing on the past. “Downtown has been changing a lot in the past few years,” he said. “We’re looking to draw people back.”
Hartlin has recently opened a new watering hole, Club Soda, in the former Bubble’s Mansion location.
“We’ve created a fun, retro, and bright environment,” he said.
Students will be pleased to know the club, which opened its doors for operation this summer, will host DJs from across Canada and feature a number of live acts.
The Atlantic Management Group – the organization responsible for the new club – is also looking to expand popular eatery Bubba Rays to include more space and improved restrooms.
It is clear from these many developments the city is in the midst of some major growth. As Halifax continues to grow to accommodate fresh goods, more transportation and a trendy downtown, the future of the HRM remains bright.
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