Downtown Halifax Vision 2030 Update

In May 2025, DHBC presented the Downtown Halifax Vision 2030 to Regional Council, with a specific ask. 

"For HRM to dedicate staff and resources that will allow us to advance implementation of the Vision."

A two-part motion was brought forward, with strong endorsement from Council:

1. That the CAO provide a staff report that includes an assessment of Vision 2030 to determine how it aligns with current municipal priorities [approved 16-0]
2. An implementation plan along with an accountability structure to help guide the completion of the Municipal components of the plan [approved 13-3].

DHBC is now waiting on the HRM Staff Report that will be presented to Council on January 13, 2026.  

The Process

From September 2023 to April 2024, DHBC consulted with key stakeholders, urban experts, policymakers, business owners, and the public asking "What big moves must happen now to ensure Downtown Halifax’s success for the future?"

This identified 17 priorities that fit into one (or more) "buckets" that we are calling Transformational Moves.

Everybody’s Neighbourhood - Downtown Halifax is a place where everyone feels welcome. 

Harbour 365 - Downtown Halifax maximizes its greatest asset year round.

Entertainment Central - Downtown Halifax is a nationally renowned destination for arts, culture, and entertainment.

Move Smart - Getting to and moving around Downtown Halifax is easy. 

The Importance of Downtown Halifax 

Downtown Halifax Vision 2030 is a report that not only paves the way for our entire city, but for the entire province, and region as well. 

The taxes generated in Downtown Halifax significantly outweigh the resources consumed. Thus, a healthy Downtown is the economic engine that helps fund libraries, parks, schools, recreation facilities, and public transit.

Leading up to the 2024 Halifax Municipal Election, DHBC met with many candidates, covering all districts to discuss the Vision asking for their support.           

Click here to read the Vision 2030 Letter of Support 

Below you'll see the executive summary, which summarizes all moves and priorities into a concise one-pager. And the full 22-page in-depth report. 

Comments and questions about Downtown Halifax Vision 2030 can be sent to DHBC's Communications Manager at jayme@downtownhalifax.ca

Download the Executive Summary

Download the full report (PDF)

       Text-Only Webpage

Document

Downtown Vision 2030 4 Transformational Moves_Text Only.pdf

EVERYBODY'S NEIGHBOURHOOD 

• Cogswell megaproject leading downtown Halifax's rebirth
• Halifax is one of Canada's fastest growing municipalities
• Concrete reasons to support building repurposing
• Halifax considers incentives for developers who convert old offices to apartments

HARBOUR 365

• Halifax-Bedford ferry service gets green-light
• The ‘very busy’ Halifax waterfront and why changes could be on the way

ENTERTAINMENT CENTRAL

• Performing & Visual Arts Venues Study (Shape Your City Halifax)
• New Halifax art gallery still ‘on pause’: premier 

MOVE SMART 

• Population boom turning Halifax’s transit wish list into to-do list
• Why Halifax's new transit boss is taking the bus every day 
• More Canadians commuting in 2024 (Statistics Canada - August 26, 2024)
• Is Halifax an active transportation city? Can it afford not to be?
• Building bike lanes in HRM — what’s underway, coming soon, the differences and why that matters 
• City of the future — is commuter/light rail a dream in HRM?
• The unfareness of raising Halifax Transit fees