September 16, 2021 – The Halifax Port Authority and Transport Canada have determined that the proposed South End Container Terminal Railyard and Maintenance Shop project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:

• Noise and sensory disturbances will be mitigated by maintaining vehicles in good working order and having work vehicles equipped with the appropriate noise reduction equipment (e.g., mufflers, to reduce noise). Work will preferentially be conducted during day time hours.
• Site lighting will be designed to reduce potential for spill-over light and unnecessary light pollution.
• Waste generated from Project activities e.g., the demolition of existing maintenance shop will be segregated and disposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner. Trash and debris will be removed from the site and properly sorted and stored to prevent material from entering the marine environment.
• Dust will be managed, as required using conventional means (e.g., water application).
• Runoff from the site that is silt-laden or impacted by other contaminants (e.g., hydrocarbon spills) will not be allowed to enter the storm sewers thereby potentially entering the marine environment.

Halifax Port Authority and Transport Canada are satisfied that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. Therefore, the Halifax Port Authority and Transport Canada have may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.