Halifax Explores On-Demand Micro-Transit with Lucasville Pilot

The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is set to explore an innovative on-demand micro-transit service, starting with the community of Lucasville. The transportation committee recently reviewed a proposal aimed at addressing the transportation needs of areas with limited or no transit options. This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing connectivity for underserved communities in the region.

Coun. Becky Kent (Dartmouth South-Woodside – Eastern Passage) emphasized the importance of this project, stating, “This is a beginning stage to measure the impact of transit in areas that don’t have it and those areas are going to grow.” The micro-transit service would utilize dynamic routing within defined zones to effectively meet local passenger needs. HRM staff are considering using mid-sized vehicles, such as vans or small buses, to provide curb-to-curb service.

Priority communities have been identified for this initiative, with Lucasville being the primary focus. According to HRM staff, the area is an ideal candidate for a pilot program due to its compact nature, strong community advocacy for transit services, and proximity to the Sackville Terminal. The report highlighted the significant barrier that the absence of public transit has posed for residents, stating, “With the potential to be the most cost-effective, Lucasville is a strong candidate for micro-transit.”

Lucasville currently lacks a public transit system, featuring limited sidewalks and experiencing heavy traffic, with over 10,000 vehicles traversing the 7.2-kilometre Lucasville Road daily. Coun. John Young (Hammonds Plains – Upper Hammonds Plains – Lucasville – Middle and Upper Sackville) noted the historical significance of the community, which has existed for 199 years without these essential services. He suggested that micro-transit could complement plans for a multi-use trail in the area.

Implementation and Costs

Once operational, residents would be able to book rides via a dedicated web page, mobile app, or booking hotline. The app would provide updates, vehicle identification, and real-time location tracking through text alerts.

The municipality is evaluating two options for service provision: hiring a vendor or managing the service in-house. The estimated cost for the Lucasville pilot project stands at $1.7 million for the vendor option and $2.3 million for the in-house approach. If HRM decides to extend micro-transit to all unserviced areas within the municipality, the total cost would reach approximately $55 million.

Questions regarding the uniqueness of this service arose during the committee meeting. Coun. Sam Austin (Dartmouth Centre) inquired, “Is this just more expensive Uber? What’s the difference between this and a ride share?” Patricia Hughes, director of planning and customer engagement, clarified that the primary distinction lies in the service model, which would involve multiple passengers sharing a vehicle during a single trip.

The transportation committee expressed support for the Lucasville pilot project, which will advance to the Halifax regional council for a vote. If approved, the initiative would be included in the 2027-2028 budget, paving the way for a transformative approach to public transit in Halifax.