Halifax traffic: First responders on crazy congestion, how it slows them down – Halifax [Video]

Stop and ask any Halifax driver about traffic and you’re likely to get an earful about recent congestion and unusually long commutes.

From construction to more cars on the road as work-from-home models change, it’s evident the city is changing.

“The new Barrington Street roundabout is working so well,” one TikTok user recently shared sarcastically. “I’ve only been sitting here for an hour and 15 minutes.”

Then, there are the unexpected situations.

On Thursday afternoon, a damaged construction crane in Dartmouth forced the closure of the Macdonald Bridge just before the rush hour — snarling traffic throughout the municipality.

For first responders, it’s especially concerning.

Over the last few years, firefighters have noticed response times are stalling due to heavy traffic and construction.

“A minute could make all the difference in a fire situation or in a medical. So, when we’re not getting off the block, it’s crazy,” said Peter Grantham, a firefighter engineer.

He says traffic calming measures in busy neighbourhoods, as well as bike lanes, are …