Initiative 14

Background

In November 2020, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia announced KPMB Architects submitted the winning design for the new art gallery and Arts District located on Salter Block along Halifax’s Waterfront. As a gathering place that unites art, learning, and the community, the design “embodies a vision of a place for all seasons, rooted in sustainability, connecting the city to the water”. The design also celebrates Mi’kmaw culture and the importance of land to the Mi’kmaq.

While the final design and completion of the project will take five years, public consultation is set to begin in 2021. As with the ITMP, this represents a community-first approach which will help ensure the benefits are fully realized throughout the Halifax region, and indeed the province. It is expected that this community engagement will reiterate some of the destination gaps and needs identified through the ITMP research, including the desire for year-round programming, extended hours, and access to multi-purpose events and community spaces.