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SECOND ANNUAL PROJECT ISSUE
Showcasing Work Of Nova Scotia Engineers From The Past Year
Project: Sable Island Microgrid Development
Location: Sable Island
Submitted by: EastPoint Engineering
The Sable Island Microgrid Development revolutionizes energy generation on this remote national park reserve, transitioning from inefficient diesel generators to a cutting-edge hybrid system. Featuring 100 kW solar photovoltaics, advanced battery storage, and high-efficiency variable speed diesel generators, reducing generator fossil fuel consumption by 77%, cutting 130.9 tons of CO2e and saving $290,000 annually. This project showcases renewable microgrid potential in remote, ecologically sensitive environments, with a reasonable payback period.
P.Eng. Participants: Chris Russell, P.Eng., PMP, LEED AP BD+C, CM-Lean, Sandy MacInnis, P.Eng.
Project: Bridgewater Interchange (12A)
Location: Lunenburg County
Submitted by: Nova Scotia Department of Public Works
The new exit 12A connects the Bridgewater Business Park to Highway 103. This makes travel safer and more efficient by taking heavy trucks off local roads. It also supports trade by making it easier to transport goods. The project includes a new diamond interchange at Exit 12A, the replacement of the St. Phillips Street overpass bridge and auxiliary lanes connecting Exit 12A and Exit 13.
P.Eng. Participants: Donald Maillet, P.Eng.
Project: Vancouver Infrastructure Project
Location: Yarmouth
Submitted by: Town of Yarmouth
The Vancouver Infrastructure Project was a $2.8M dollar project that replaced 70+ year-old water lines, separated combined storm and sanitary flows, and added new storm lines in the Vancouver Intersection. Separating the storm water from the sanitary line reduces the load on the town’s treatment plant, as rainwater flows directly to the harbour. This allows for a major reduction in electricity use by the plant and a reduction in greenhouse gases emitted by the town.
Often referred to as “five corners,” the intersection of Vancouver, Main, and Chestnut Streets is one of Yarmouth’s busiest, and includes the primary route to the Yarmouth Regional Hospital. Pedestrians and drivers alike benefit from the new traffic lights. Pedestrian buttons have been upgraded to audible, which meets the latest accessibility requirements. New curb ramps feature tactile warning surfaces to assist pedestrians with vision impairments. Finally, another key update is the installation of a tidal check valve. Saltwater intrusion into the system has been observed during high tides and peak rainfall events over the past five years. This valve works to stop salt water from entering the system from the harbour. Keeping saltwater out of the system also reduces the load on the treatment plant.
P.Eng. Participants: DeMario Dunkley, P.Eng., Chris Boone, P.Eng.
Project: Wedgeport School
Location: Yarmouth County
Submitted by: Nova Scotia Department of Public Works
This pre-primary to grade six school replaces the existing 60-year-old school and can accommodate up to 150 students. The facility is just over 56,000 square feet and includes a gym, canteen, daycare and community centre. Special care has been taken to reflect the region’s Acadian culture. This includes decorating the school with Acadian colours and a student-led art installation in the cafeteria.
P.Eng. Participants: Tonya McLellan, P.Eng.
Project: North Cumberland Health Care Centre
Location: Cumberland County
Submitted by: Nova Scotia Department of Public Works
This new community hospital serves the communities of Pugwash, Wallace, Port Howe and the surrounding areas. It offers primary care, urgent care, ambulatory care services, a small inpatient unit, and a number of outpatient services like diagnostic imaging, rehab, mental health services and more. It replaces the North Cumberland Memorial Hospital, which opened in 1966.
P.Eng. Participants: Tonya McLellan, P.Eng.
Project: Highway 107 (Bedford-Burnside Connector)
Location: Halifax County
Submitted by: Nova Scotia Department of Public Works
In 2024, this project was completed creating a new 9 km, controlled access, 4-lane highway. It uses a high-tension cable barrier median to conserve land and limit head on collisions. It includes 8 new bridges and 9 roundabouts. This will improve safety and reduce traffic congestion for the more than 40,000 vehicles a day that use Magazine Hill and the Bedford Bypass.
P.Eng. Participants: Donald Maillet, P.Eng.
To submit your project for the 2026 issue, email: publications@engineersnovascotia.ca
