I don’t have a car. This makes getting around a little more complicated. Going to Bayer’s Lake isn’t very pleasant, whichever way I do it. Micmac Mall is a little better because I can hop on the #10 Westphal from Spring Garden OR in front of SMU. What about Dartmouth Crossing? Have you heard of it? Do you know how to get there? This summer I had the WORST Metro Transit experience in my 10-year Halifax existence while trying to journey to the centre of Dartmouth Crossing. The last three times I’ve been out there (mind you it’s winter and winter busing sucks) haven’t been the greatest, either. I couldn’t help but think that maybe Dartmouth Crossing – “a prime location that offers consumers value and convenience in an exciting and unique environment” – wasn’t doing enough to accommodate its non-driving visitors, which in all likelihood largely consists of students. Therefore, I’m going to help you in this endeavour and also make some suggestions to Dartmouth Crossing.

Getting There

“Public Transit - Dartmouth Crossing is serviced by Metro Transit #56. Click here to view the Transit schedule and map.” That’s what Dartmouth Crossing’s site has to say, and you’ll only see this if you notice “Public Transit” at the top of the page after clicking “Getting Here” (see image). Hey drivers, these are detailed instructions on how to get here and, by the way, public transit is available too. Or at least that’s what it feels like. It’s really quite simple to get there from SMU.

Take the #10 Westphal to MicMac Terminal and then transfer to the #56 Dartmouth Crossing. Or, take any bus to the Dartmouth Sportsplex Terminal and then #10 Westphal or #55 Port Wallace to MicMac Terminal (then of course #56).

Getting Around (Once There)

I realize it’s a business park but it’s quite confusing to find things once you’ve arrived. Perhaps I haven’t done enough research on the matter but it really feels like the kind of place that caters to drivers. I suggest printing a map of the place, available from their site under Shops and Services ->Printer Friendly Map and Directory -> Dartmouth Crossing Printable Map. You’ll thank me once you get there and realize you have no idea how to find The Bead Pod (excellent little place, by the way). Don’t bother hopping on the bus that leaves Dartmouth Crossing in hopes of returning to the beginning, because you’ll be taken right back to MicMac
Terminal via the highway. I learned that the hard way.

Getting Out

Having undergone miserable experiences, I was never terribly willing to walk great distances in search of a bus stop (especially in the freezing cold) so the only stop I know that gets you out is behind the Staples. Consequently, it’s in front of the Walmart, across the street. Don’t bother calling the Go Time phone number; it hasn’t worked since July and I even called Metro Transit to tell them this. Nothing has changed as of January 13th. If you know of another stop, good for you. If you wouldn’t mind sharing it, I’d be much obliged.

Take the #56 Portland Hills to MicMac and then either the #10 Dalhousie (to come to Halifax) or whatever gets you to your respective home.

Getting Students to Dartmouth Crossing

1. Advertise in student newspapers so we know Dartmouth Crossing exists. Help us get to you and give us a reason to want to.

2. Offer students discounts if they show their ID or U-PASS (especially the latter). Busing is environmentally conscious but is kind of a pain. Reward us.

3. The website is pretty good, so why not get students to it? I’ve seen no promotion of Dartmouth Crossing. Talk to us where we are. Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc.

While no doubt more enjoyable in warmer weather, Dartmouth Crossing is a great alternative to MicMac or Halifax Shopping Centre. Check it out. Bring in a copy of this article and tell them they’re failing us. Tell ‘em Nick sent ya.