The North Park Armoury, a significant piece of Halifax’s military history, is undergoing extensive rehabilitation and modernization. On behalf of the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Darren Fisher, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, recently announced a substantial step forward in this initiative. A $60.6 million contract has been awarded to Pomerleau, a construction firm based in Bedford, N.S., marking the start of the next phase in the building’s restoration.
“The rehabilitation of the North Park Armoury provides our Reserve Force personnel with a modern and efficient facility and positions them to better perform their important work. Phase 2 of the project will bring economic opportunities to local businesses throughout the Halifax Regional Municipality and will sustain jobs throughout the process,” said the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.
Originally damaged in the catastrophic Halifax Explosion of 1917, the Armoury is now poised for a transformation that will enhance both its structural integrity and its operational capabilities. The upcoming renovations will ensure that Reserve units stationed at the facility—currently including the Princess Louise Fusiliers and One Army Cadet Corps, with the Halifax Rifles (Royal Canadian Armoured Corps) set to join in the future—can operate within a modernized and efficient environment.
“The North Park Armoury stands as a historic cornerstone of our municipality, reflecting Halifax’s proud military past and present. This project symbolizes more than just the rehabilitation of a military armoury, it is a commitment to preserving Canada’s rich heritage and our local history. Preserving and modernizing the North Park Armoury will ensure that our Reserve Forces are well equipped to serve effectively for years to come, all while safeguarding an important piece of our shared legacy,” explained the Honourable Darren Fisher, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.
The second phase of the project is divided into two segments. The initial part focuses on the exterior, reinforcing the remaining walls, roof, foundations, and windows. The latter segment will see the interior fully upgraded to meet contemporary operational demands. With the recent contract in place, exterior work is officially underway and is projected for completion by 2028. Additionally, this extensive renovation effort is expected to generate over 300 jobs.
Investing in defence infrastructure remains a priority for Canada, ensuring that military facilities evolve to meet the needs of the nation’s armed forces while preserving the historical significance of sites like the North Park Armoury.