Recognizing the Existing Potential of an Industrial Landscape

Abstract

Conceived of and established as a fortified city, Halifax developed a naval and industrial relationship with its harbour. The waterfront was seen as a strategic area for military defense, not for public amenities. In an effort to streamline the movement of goods, an imposing rail line corridor was developed along the peninsula’s waterfront. This industrialization effectively dislocated Point Pleasant Park from the rest of its urban fabric. The severing of this vital and historic artery symbolized the evolution of Halifax’s harbour from being fortified to industrialized. As a result, todays waterfront is largely privatized for the military, large industry and high-end single family residential. The focus of this investigation is to explore a methodology that recognizes the potential of the decaying rail line corridor and surrounding industrial environment. The intent of this intervention is to graft new vital arteries between Halifax’s urban fabric and its industrial waterfront.