HRM released an Expressions of interest for the construction of 2 new Ferries. These new vessels will be built to the same plans as the 4th ferry currently under construction by AF Theriault & Son.

From the Document:

Metro Transit’s existing ferries were constructed in 1978 (Dartmouth III and Halifax Ill)
and 1986(Woodside I). As such, these ferries are approaching the end of their economic
lifespan. Metro Transit is currently engaged in a project to expand the ferry fleet with the
construction of an additional vessel in support of planned service improvements on the
Woodside ferry route to be completed in the spring of 2014 and as awarded to A.F.
Theriault & Son Ltd. – (Tender No. 13-009).

HRM now plans to construct two more ferries in years 2014-2015 and 2017-18

The documentation presented to Council surrounding the construction of the 4th ferry mentioned that it was the start of fleet renewal, and that engineering work would be transferable to replacement ferries fro Halifax III and Dartmouth III