Halifax councillors just approved a major development that'll turn the parking lots around Mic Mac Mall in Dartmouth into a new neighbourhood with thousands of homes.
The M District Project Takes Shape
On Tuesday, councillors passed planning rules to enable the M District. The neighbourhood will cover most of the 24-hectare site, including the mall itself.
Developer Joe Ramia's behind the project, which will add up to 2,800 housing units. Construction happens in phases over 10 to 20 years. Seven high-rise towers will go up between 25 and 40 storeys. Four mid-rise buildings up to nine storeys and a special care facility are also planned.
Staff expect about 8,600 new residents will move to the area. The neighbourhood will look completely different, with way more people living there.
Community and Council Raise Concerns
Many residents supported the development, but others worried the scale and density were too much. Nearby resident Doug Rose was blunt about it.
“I think we should call it project colossus because it's too big for the area,” Rose stated, highlighting the community's apprehension regarding the project's magnitude.
Residents also had practical worries. They said the plans needed more parks and recreation spaces for the density. People also worried about water and sewer capacity, plus more traffic on already congested roads.
Deputy Mayor Patty Cuttell shared those concerns. She said a 0.7-hectare park with no sports field wasn't enough for a project this big. “For me this lacks an element of community and livability, and creating neighborhood, that I feel is important,” Cuttell explained.
Councillor Kathryn Morse had doubts too. She described the plan as feeling “a bit grim,” envisioning housing situated between a major highway and a shopping mall. Morse said more green space was essential to make it livable.
Planned Amenities and Infrastructure Responses
The M District isn't just about housing. It'll have public amenities to support residents. A new transit terminal will replace the existing one at the mall.
There'll be commercial space and possibly a grocery store for residents. A public park with a playground and sport courts is planned. And a new street, pedestrian corridors, and multi-use paths will encourage walking and cycling.
Halifax Water responded to infrastructure concerns. The developer will pay for any upgrades needed right away. Halifax Water's also included the project in long-term plans for new water sources and treatment plants.
Council's Approval Despite Reservations
Despite the concerns, the development got approved. Only Harbour East–Marine Drive Community Council members could vote on it.
Area councillor Sam Austin supported the project. He liked several parts of the design. He pointed to better pedestrian and cycling connections as a win.
Related Articles
- InkPoster Tela 28.5-inch: E Ink frame that mimics prints
- Google deal lets Pentagon use AI for 'any lawful' purpose
- Long Chips, Short Software: Investors Weigh a Two-Way Trade
Construction will start transforming the site over the next 10 to 20 years.
This article was created with AI assistance.
