Russell Hixson is an award-winning investigative journalist who spent the early parts of his career doing crime and courts reporting in the U.S. before stumbling into covering Canada’s construction sector. He spent eight years writing for the Journal of Commerce where he became well versed on the industry and its issues. He’s covered the federal budget from Ottawa and documented the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic while locked down in his bedroom.
Hixson has developed a passion for the construction industry and seeks to convert others by sharing its stories through SiteNews. When he’s not writing stories, the East Vancouver resident enjoys kayaking, skateboarding and avoiding the neighbourhood skunks.
FPInnovations has been testing asphalt mixes that use wood-derived products instead of petroleum-based ones.
The asphalt has already been tested in a variety of environments and will soon be tested in Quebec.
The technology could increase pavement preservation and extend service life for pavements and roads in the face of climate change.
The Whole Story:
Natural Resources Canada will contribute $1.5 million to FPInnovations for an innovative project that aims to develop asphalt that contains wood-derived products from Canada’s forest sector.
FPInnovations, in collaboration with the construction firm Eurovia and the Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité durable du Québec, will conduct an on-road pilot in Ange-Gardien, Quebec. Pilots have also been conducted in other provinces to test the asphalt’s performance in the wide range of climate conditions.
FPInnovations is testing lignin-based asphalt as a replacement for conventional pavements. – FPInnovations
“Canada is blessed with immense forest resources,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, minister of energy and Natural Resources. “Finding innovative ways of managing and utilizing these resources can provide new pathways for low-carbon solutions. This means lower emissions and good, sustainable jobs for workers. This partnership with FPInnovations is paving the way for a more sustainable Canada.”
The new asphalt being tested contains a renewable bioproduct, lignin, which is intended to replace a portion of the petroleum-based bitumen currently found in the asphalt used in roads. This new product would increase pavement preservation and possibly extend service life for pavements and roads in the face of climate change.
The $1.5-million contribution is being delivered through the Forest Innovation Program (FIP), which supports the development of new technologies and practices that improve the environmental sustainability and economic productivity of Canada’s forest sector.
Key Takeaways:
The $150 million will be dispersed as fully repayable low-interest loans through the Rental Construction Financing Initiative (RCFi).
The loans will be used to build more than 364 purpose-built rental homes across three developments in Vancouver.
The 19 on the Greenway project has benefited from the loan program will be developed into two separate rental buildings and will offer 118 units for Vancouver residents.
The Whole Story:
The Government of Canada will provide $150 million in fully repayable low-interest loans through the Rental Construction Financing Initiative (RCFi) to build more than 364 purpose-built rental homes across three developments in Vancouver.
“We are working with all levels of government, non-profit organizations and with the private sector to increase housing supply,” said Sean Fraser, minister of housing. “Through strategic investments, like the one announced today which will help build 364 purpose-built units in Vancouver, we are helping to increase housing supply across Canada so that all Canadians have a safe place that they are proud to call home.”
The announcement took place at Evolve, located near the University of British Columbia (UBC) at 3518 Wesbrook Mall.
The Evolve project offers 110 rental units for faculty and staff at the university. Evolve received Passive House Certification, an internationally recognized building certification that provides third-party verification and a stamp of quality assurance that a building meets the high performance and comfort levels of the Passive House standard.
The project received a $44.2 million RCFi low-interest loan from the federal government through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and $3.5 million from Natural Resources Canada. UBC contributed $15.1 million in land equity. Construction was completed in August 2022 and the project is fully leased.
Mundell House, also located near UBC at 6038 Birney Avenue, offers 136 rental units for faculty and staff at the university. The project received a $46.4 million RCFi low-interest loan from the federal government through CMHC. UBC contributed $23.6 million in land equity. Amenities for residents include a bicycle room, a communal courtyard and rooftop amenity space. Construction was completed in August 2020 and the project is fully leased.
Located at 3619 and 3681 Arbutus Street, 19 on the Greenway will be developed into two separate rental buildings and will offer 118 units for Vancouver residents. The project received a $59 million RCFi low-interest loan from the federal government through CMHC and PCI Developments contributed $30.7 million in cash equity.
The project is located across the street from the Arbutus Greenway which is well serviced by public transit through frequent bus service, as well as the future Broadway Transit line. Construction is expected to complete in March 2025.
Key Takeaways:
Bird Construction has been selected as construction manager for the Vancouver Community College (VCC) Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation and the University of Victoria (UVIC) Engineering Expansion Project.
both facilities will extensively leverage mass timber structural elements, including columns, beams, and lateral bracing.
The interior spaces will be designed with the intentional selection of low-emitting materials and recycled contents.
The Whole Story:
Bird Construction has been selected as construction manager for the Vancouver Community College (VCC) Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation and the University of Victoria (UVIC) Engineering Expansion Project. The combined value of the contracts is approximately $280 million.
The VCC Centre is an eight-storey, 343,832 sq. ft., LEED Gold and energy-efficient facility with elements of exposed mass timber. Bird stated that the facility will provide education and skills training for people in B.C. and Red-Seal-certified apprentices of modern automotive trades, including electric, hydrogen fuel cell, plug-in and autonomous vehicles. The facility will accommodate as many as 1,400 students annually.
The UVIC Engineering Expansion Project consists of two new state-of-the-art academic buildings: the Engineering Computer Science Building Expansion, a six-storey, 68,180 sq. ft. building, and the High Bay Research and Structures Laboratory Building, a two-storey, 20,900 sq. ft. building. The complete UVIC Engineering Expansion project will have a Net Zero Carbon Ready Design and will target LEED Gold.
To support reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint, both facilities will extensively leverage mass timber structural elements, including columns, beams, and lateral bracing, and the interior spaces will be designed with the intentional selection of low-emitting materials and recycled contents.
“We are excited to be part of these transformative projects that align well with Bird’s purpose of bringing life to vision and creating greatness together. With a focus on LEED Gold and Net Zero Carbon Ready Designs, these projects exemplify our innovative solutions that drive a lower carbon future,” said Teri McKibbon, president and CEO of Bird. “Our team in B.C. has a long history of strong execution on institutional projects and a solid track record in construction management project delivery. We are proud to be a part of shaping the future of education and research in British Columbia and beyond.”
Key Takeaways:
The report, published every five years, shows roughly 84,600 households earning less than 65% of Calgary’s median income spend more than 30% on housing costs.
The data is based on conditions in 2021 and the city suspects the issue has gotten worse.
An annual income of $84,000 is needed to adequately afford average market rent in 2023. That number has increased from $67,000 in 2022.
The Whole Story:
The city of Calgary’s latest Housing Needs Assessment report shows nearly one in five Calgary households can’t afford their housing and the issue is likely getting worse.
The Housing Needs Assessment report uses quantitative data from the Federal Census, the city of Calgary Corporate Economics and Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation.
Published every five years, the information in the assessment informs the city’s affordable housing policies. It also helps the city plan its work with housing providers who build new developments and with other orders of government who fund them.
The latest report shows at least 84,600 or almost one in five Calgary households didn’t have enough money to pay for housing in 2021. The city noted that based on current housing conditions, it is expected that the numbers in 2023 are almost certainly even higher.
“Calgary is experiencing a housing crisis. The latest data published in the Housing Needs Assessment shows us that an increasing number of Calgarians are struggling with housing affordability,” said Tim Ward, manager of housing solutions. “The findings in the assessment also highlight that the housing crisis is affecting a wide range of Calgarians including those looking to buy or rent a home, and those that are in greatest need of affordable housing supports.”
Based on recent market housing data, the median cost to buy a detached home has increased in price by 37% in the last three years. For Calgarians looking to buy their first detached home in 2023, an annual household income of $156,000 is required to adequately afford it, meaning they would not be spending more than 30% of their income before tax on housing.
To adequately afford the median purchase cost of an apartment in 2023, an annual household income of $70,800 is needed for that new home-buyer. For those looking to rent, an annual income of $84,000 is needed to adequately afford average market rent in 2023. That number has increased from $67,000 in 2022.
Based on Calgary’s forecasted population growth and historical rate of housing need, the number of households in need of affordable housing is expected to reach close to 100,000 by 2026.
Calgary presents the findings of their report:
The city is currently developing a housing strategy that names specific actions to address the issue.
The strategy includes five sought outcomes:
Increase housing supply
Support affordable housing providers
Support The city’s housing subsidiaries
Ensure housing choices meet the needs of equity-deserving populations
Meet the affordable housing needs of Indigenous people living in Calgary
It incorporates the 33 actions from the Housing and Affordability Task Force, a handful of additional new actions and 38 previously council-approved actions for work that’s underway. The strategy will be reviewed by members of council at the Community Development Committee meeting on Sept. 14.
Key Takeaways:
Enbridge has entered into three agreements with Dominion Energy, Inc. to acquire EOG, Questar and PSNC for an aggregate purchase price of $19 billion.
The acquisitions will add gas utility operations in Ohio, North Carolina, Utah, Idaho and Wyoming.
Upon closing, Enbridge’s gas utility business will be the largest, by volume, in North America with a combined rate base of over $27 billion and about 7,000 employees delivering over 9 billion cubic feet per day of gas to approximately 7 million customers.
The Whole Story:
Enbridge Inc. has inked a series of deals totaling $19 billion that would make it the largest natural gas utility franchise in North America upon closing.
The deal involves three separate definitive agreements with Dominion Energy, Inc. to acquire EOG, Questar and PSNC for an aggregate purchase price of $19 billion.
Upon the closings of the three transactions, Enbridge will add gas utility operations in Ohio, North Carolina, Utah, Idaho and Wyoming, representing a significant presence in the U.S. utility sector.
The company stated that the gas utilities fit Enbridge’s long held investor proposition of low-risk businesses with predictable cash flow growth and strong overall returns. Following the closings, the acquisitions are expected to double the scale of the company’s gas utility business to approximately 22% of Enbridge’s total adjusted EBITDA and balance the company’s asset mix evenly between natural gas and renewables, and liquids.
Following the closings, Enbridge’s gas utility business will be the largest, by volume, in North America with a combined rate base of over $27 billion and about 7,000 employees delivering over 9 billion cubic feet per day of gas to approximately 7 million customers.
“Adding natural gas utilities of this scale and quality, at a historically attractive multiple, is a once in a generation opportunity. The transaction is expected to be accretive to DCFPS and adjusted EPS in the first full year of ownership, increasing over time due to the strong growth profile,” said Greg Ebel, Enbridge president and CEO. “Following the closings of the acquisitions, our Gas Distribution and Storage (GDS) business will be North America’s largest gas utility franchise. These acquisitions further diversify our business, enhance the stable cash flow profile of our assets, and strengthen our long-term dividend growth profile. The transaction also reinforces our position as the first-choice energy delivery company in North America.”
Ebel noted that the assets have long useful lives and natural gas utilities are “must-have” infrastructure for providing safe, reliable and affordable energy. Ebel noted that the gas utilities have each committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
“We are very excited by today’s announcement as these businesses align with Enbridge’s business risk model and long-term growth targets,” he said. “The entire Enbridge team is committed to working with the EOG, Questar and PSNC teams and to investing in the communities they serve. We look forward to serving our customers with dedication and to providing them with safe, reliable, and affordable energy service for years to come.”
Following the closings of the acquisitions, EOG, PSNC and Questar each will continue to be regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Ohio, the North Carolina Utilities Commission, and the Public Service Commissions of Utah, Wyoming and Idaho, respectively.
“Acquiring these natural gas utilities makes strong strategic and financial sense. Enbridge is currently the only major pipeline and midstream company that owns a regulated gas utility and we’ve further strengthened that position today by doubling the size of our GDS business. After closings, the acquisitions will extend and diversify our natural gas footprint and importantly add low-risk, ratable investments to our growth portfolio” said Patrick Murray, executive vice president and chief financial officer for Enbridge. “The financing plan for the transaction includes significant equity pre-funding and a suite of financing options that will be optimized to maximize accretion and protect our strong investment grade ratings.”
The acquisitions are expected to close in 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the receipt of certain required U.S. federal and state regulatory approvals.
What gets measured, gets managed.
That’s thinking from Procore Technologies when it comes to helping transform the construction sector.
The construction management software provider is on a mission to identify and generate hard data on how builders are faring and areas that can be improved.
The Procore team recently released its second How We Build Now report. More than 500 industry stakeholders were surveyed about general sentiment of the Canadian construction industry, the digital maturity and adoption of construction technologies, as well as the challenges and opportunities that businesses face.
Data fuels proactive decision-making
The first iteration of the report was released in 2020 right as the COVID-19 pandemic was throwing construction and every other sector into uncertainty. It also came at a time when many other topics were coming to the forefront, including digital adoption, sustainability, diversity and inclusion, labour shortages and supply chain constraints.
“What we found is that construction is going through a big period of transformation,” explained Nolan Frazier, a sales leader at Procore. “And it’s useful to look at multiple areas at once when thinking about this industry.”
And while these are things that the industry has been aware of for some time, Frazier noted that having quantifiable data on them is important. When companies have access to real-time and historical data, it allows them to be proactive in making business decisions rather than reactive.
“Our company mission is to improve the lives of people who work in construction,” he said. “We are a member of this industry, and whatever we can do to support as it undergoes this transformation, that’s what we are here to do in every way we can.”
Both iterations explored the general sentiment of the industry, but the first report did have some focus on the impacts of the pandemic. Now that the pandemic’s impacts have been waning, the 2023 report was able to be broader in scope.
“Those types of events don’t happen as frequently,” said Frazier. “Whereas, what we are dealing with now, people have gone through this cycle before, and some people in the industry are used to moving through this type of situation when it comes to inflationary pressures, interest rates, skilled labour constraints, supply chain constraints and what not.”
Emerging themes
One major data point from Procore’s latest report is the impact of rework.
“Most builders would tell you that rework wastes a lot of their time,” said Frazier. “In this report we were actually able to get metrics for it.”
The survey shows 27% of the total time spent on a project is spent on rework or rectifying issues. The report also found that 25% of executives at general contractors and owners that were surveyed are women. And just 4 in 10 of the companies surveyed have a diversity, equity, inclusion policy in place.
These are just two examples of areas that the industry has been concerned about, but now there is a baseline of data to track growth.
“This gives us something that we can act upon as an industry,” said Frazier. “We can work on how to move those numbers.”
Zooming in to regions
Procore’s latest report is also offering a unique look into Canada’s specific construction markets.
Frazier explained that the report shows how the thinking and issues of builders fluctuated by province.
“When we hear the news, we can all make assumptions about B.C. versus Ontario and so on, but to see the data come out with the survey results, it’s something more quantitative that helps us further the conversation,” he said.
In the coming months, Procore plans to team up with The Home Depot and industry associations to take their report on the road. They will host panel discussions and networking events around their findings with industry leaders.
“We are really looking forward to meeting with Canadians in these markets and talking about the issues that they face every day,” said Frazier.
Self improvement
He added that connecting with the industry through the report and the resulting discussions plays a critical role for Procore itself.
“We look to these builders and stakeholders to let us know where they want to go,” said Frazier. “And our role in that is to help them get there. So understanding their priorities, their areas of focus and their strategic priorities helps us understand what we need to be working on and what we invest in as a business.”
The data shows the industry has immense demand and builders are beginning to embrace technology as a way to deliver more work and overcome some of the limitations of labour, time and budget.
“We are seeing a consistent desire to modernize the industry and the tools it uses,” he said.
“From the first survey, the results around the adoption of technology, and people involved in software evaluation has increased. As an industry, I think a lot of the builders are accepting that technology isn’t something that is just nice to have. They know that they need to find a way to adopt it and incorporate it into their businesses.”
Get your own copy of the report and check out its findings here.
Key Takeaways:
Work building the dam portion of the Site C project in B.C. has wrapped up.
When signed in 2015, the civil works contract was worth $1.75 billion.
In total, more than 16 million cubic metres of material was used in its construction.
The entire project is expected to be completed in 2025.
The Whole Story:
ACCIONA and its partners in the Peace River Hydro Partners consortium (PRHP) have completed the construction of the Site C dam, in B.C. Awarded in 2015 for $1.75 billion, it is one of ACCIONA’s largest projects in Canada.
At 60 meters high and approximately 500 meters wide, the dam stretches more than one and a half kilometers along the Peace River. Officials say it is the largest dam of it’s kind in the country.
The dam fill works began in 2021. In total, more than 16 million cubic metres of material was used in its construction which was 100% self-performed by PRHP. Most of the material was obtained from the site while the remaining seven million tons was moved on a five-kilometer-long conveyor belt, avoiding CO2 emissions from vehicle haulage.
During construction, ACCIONA and its partners achieved records placing the roller-compacted concrete (RCC) foundation. The team reached daily RCC placement peaks of over 9,460 cubic metres per day.
Crews work on the earthfill dam in July. – Site C Clean Energy Project
To divert the river, the PRHP excavated two twin tunnels 800 meters long and 11 meters diameter with road-headers. The tunnels were then lined with concrete. In total, more than 100 cubic metres of earth was moved. In addition, half a million tons of rip-rap rock protection for the dam was produced and transported by rail from a local quarry.
The construction of the Site C dam was built in compliance with international and Canadian safety practices, enabling it to withstand natural disasters.
The PRHP construction of the earthen dam, the roller-compacted concrete dam and the diversion tunnels are part of the Site C Clean Energy Project, one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in Canada.
Once completed in 2025, the project will provide energy to a population equivalent to 450,000 homes or 1.7 million electric vehicles per year.
Key Takeaways:
bp Gas Marketing has a total firm LNG offtake for the project of 1.95 million tonnes per annum.
Work on the project is scheduled to start this month and operations are expected to start in 2027.
Officials say it will be the world’s first LNG export facility targeting net-zero carbon emissions.
The Whole Story:
All of Woodfibre LNG’s offtake has been spoken for.
The B.C. LNG project, set to begin construction this month, announced it has now committed all of its offtake for sale to bp Gas Marketing Limited (BPGM), a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of bp p.l.c., with a total firm LNG offtake of 1.95 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and the remainder on a flexible basis.
Woodfibre LNG Limited Partnership has signed a third LNG Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with BPGM for the delivery of LNG from the Woodfibre LNG export facility. Under the terms of this SPA, BPGM will receive an additional 0.45 MTPA of LNG over 15 years on a free on board (FOB) basis.
“Canada, and particularly British Columbia, is uniquely positioned to take the lead on exporting lower-carbon LNG overseas as part of the global energy transition. Today’s announcement demonstrates there is demand for lower-carbon energy today and well into the future,” said Christine Kennedy, president of Woodfibre LNG. “We look forward to working with BPGM as the offtaker from the Woodfibre LNG project to deliver Canadian LNG from one of the lowest carbon intensive LNG export facilities in the world. The global demand for lower carbon energy makes Woodfibre LNG a supplier of choice in the energy transition,” said Ratnesh Bedi, Pacific Energy president.
Woodfibre LNG is scheduled to begin construction this month in Squamish and operations are expected to begin in 2027. Officials say it will be the world’s first LNG export facility targeting net-zero carbon emissions.
“As a leader in the energy transition and partner in the Woodfibre LNG Project, Enbridge is pleased with today’s announcement. Woodfibre LNG will play an important role in providing global LNG markets with a safe, secure and sustainable source of natural gas produced by one of the lowest emission LNG facilities in the world,” said Cynthia Hansen, Enbridge Executive Vice President and President of Gas Transmission and Midstream.
And if you are seeking a job, check out the full list of available positions.
Key Takeaways:
The CHF is a $3.3-billion investment to build more than 20,000 affordable rental homes for people with moderate and low incomes by 2031-32.
Proposals for the CHF are managed by BC Housing and will be accepted until mid-November 2023.
Projects will be prioritized based on several criteria, including prioritized populations and the effect the project would have in addressing the community’s affordable rental housing need.
The Whole Story:
B.C. announced it will fund thousands of new homes through the Building BC: Community Housing Fund (CHF).
“We are in a housing crisis, and this new round of CHF funding will ensure more people have access to an affordable place to live by creating approximately 3,500 homes,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing. “This is a significant step toward our goal of 20,000 CHF-funded homes by 2032, as our province increases its housing stock faster than ever so people have the homes they need now and into the future. Together, with our many partners, we’re making progress, but we know there’s much more work to be done.”
Proposals for the CHF are managed by BC Housing and will be accepted until mid-November 2023. The project proposals will be evaluated and projects totalling approximately 3,500 units are expected to be announced in early 2024.
Non-profit organizations, housing co-operatives, municipalities, First Nations and Indigenous-led societies are encouraged to submit their housing proposals and apply for funding.
“We welcome this response to the desperate and growing need for more safe, secure, affordable housing for British Columbians,” said Thom Armstrong, CEO, Co-operative Housing Federation of British Columbia. “Help is on the way for 3,500 more households that are struggling to make ends meet in this overheated housing market. This government continues to lead the way in Canada by making new affordable housing supply a priority.”
Projects will be prioritized based on several criteria, including prioritized populations and the effect the project would have in addressing the community’s affordable rental housing need. Project-development funding will also be available for projects that require further development to prepare them for the next CHF funding call.
“The City of Vancouver is focused on delivering more affordable housing and will continue to do what it takes to lead the region in new housing approval and secure attainable housing in the city,” said Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver. “We appreciate our partners in the provincial government who understand that we need more housing for the people who call this city home. We will continue to work hand in hand to build the housing Vancouverites need.”
The CHF is a $3.3-billion investment to build more than 20,000 affordable rental homes for people with moderate and low incomes by 2031-32. Approximately 9,000 of these homes are open or underway throughout the province. Additional CHF proposal calls will be issued during the next four years to allocate funding for the remaining units.
“With rents rising faster in B.C. than anywhere else in the country, the homes funded through the Community Housing Fund could not come at a more critical time,” said Jill Atkey, CEO, BC Non-Profit Housing Association. “Non-profit housing providers have been eagerly anticipating this call, and the affordable developments they bring forward will impact the lives of thousands of individuals and families for decades to come.”
Key Takeaways:
The second year of Ontario’s skilled trades career fairs will have twice as many dates.
New cities with career fairs this year are Hamilton, Windsor, Sault Ste. Marie, Oshawa and Dryden.
Level Up! is a series of multi-day career fairs highlighting the 144 skilled trades, from electricians to boilermakers.
The Whole Story:
The Ontario government is expanding its skilled trades career fairs, now in its second year, to even more cities with more exhibitors and twice as many participating students. The new cities with career fairs this year are Hamilton, Windsor, Sault Ste. Marie, Oshawa and Dryden.
“Last year’s career fairs were a phenomenal success, giving thousands of students and their families exposure to the many career opportunities in the skilled trades,” said Premier Doug Ford. “As we make historic investments to build roads, transit, hospitals, schools and other critical infrastructure, these expanded fairs will help us attract more young people into the trades and develop the skilled workforce our growing province needs.”
Level Up! is a series of multi-day career fairs highlighting the 144 skilled trades, from electricians to boilermakers. Over 25,000 students in grades 7 to 12, as well as parents and jobseekers, will have the opportunity to learn about these trades through interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities while hearing directly from tradespeople and local employers. The first fair kicks off Sept. 19 and 20 in Thunder Bay and will continue with fairs in communities across the province.
“For far too long, parents and students have been told the only way to succeed in life is by going to university – this is simply not true,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “There are lucrative and purpose-driven careers waiting in the skilled trades where you can help build our province. Under Premier Doug Ford, we are giving more students the opportunity to learn about the life-changing careers in skilled trades that come with defined pensions and benefits.”
“In an ever-changing global economy, we are seizing the opportunity to inspire students with hands-on learning in the skilled trades and increasing pathways to apprenticeship that better connect students to good-paying jobs,” said Stephen Lecce, minister of education. “Our priority is to keep students in stable and normal classrooms, benefiting from a focus on strengthening foundational skills on reading, writing, math. This is supported by expanded career fairs and a new mandatory requirement that all students take at least one technological education course starting next year, so that students graduate into fulfilling careers of the jobs of tomorrow.”
Additionally, Ontario is investing $24 million for 2023-24 through the Apprenticeship Capital Grant program, helping 66 training institutions across Ontario upgrade their training equipment and existing facilities that support hands-on learning for students and apprentices.
Last month, the government announced apprenticeship registration increased by 24 per cent in the last year – from 21,971 to 27,319 – as more people joined the skilled trades, playing a role in building Ontario. This follows more than $1 billion investment in the skilled trades over three years, along with the launch of Skilled Trades Ontario, as part of its strategy to attract more people into the trades.
Kiewit
You’re never too young to give heavy equipment a try. Kiewit employees in Western Canada celebrate Family Day by checking out some of the company’s machinery fleet.
Wildstone Construction Group
This project is a blast from the blast on the banks of the Yukon River. Crews are hard at work restoring the Canadian Bank of Commerce which was originally built in 1901.
Corry Anderson-Fennell / LiUNA Local 1611
Patrick Smalls, 18, practices cement work as part of LiUNA Local 1611’s Training PLUS (Professional Labourers’ Union School) program. After 120 hours of classroom and practical experience, students wrote a final exam and were then dispatched to B&B Contracting.
West Metric JV
Crews install culverts at the Kitselas housing development in B.C.
Gordie Howe International Bridge
Demon is a black lab who patrols the Gordie Howe International Bridge construction site to prevent birds and other wildlife from nesting where they might be impacted by work. Great work, Demon!
Jacob Bros Construction
This month the Musqueam Gathering Place was unveiled at YVR featuring Jacob Bros‘ Musqueam YVR Canoe Build project. The project team collaborated with a team of eight Musqueam Indian Band members, including two artisan carvers, to carve a traditional Musqueam Journey Canoe out of a 35ft section of red cedar.
Indigenous elders mark the start of construction at the Ho’-kee-melh Kloshe Lum project in Vancouver. The name means “to gather, good spirits”. The facility will include 143 low-to-moderate-income rentals, 25 supportive housing units and 80 shelter beds.
Double Black Construction / John Lohan
Crews prepare the steel bones of the new 25,000 square foot Waywayseecappo’s Community Centre. Located 30 kilometers east of Russell, Manitoba, Waywayseecappo First Nation Reserve is a community of slightly more than 3,100 people close to Stony Lake.
Graham Construction
Crews working under a blue and orange sky at the Portage la Prairie Bypass project in Manitoba.
Skills Ontario
Youth learn construction skills at Durham College as part of Skills Ontario’s summer camp program.
EllisDon
The Sam Ibrahaim Building project team sign the last steel beam before it is hoisted into place at the University of Toronto Scarborough.
Par Six Golf
Next time you get a hole in one, thank this bulldozer. Crews carry out work at the Edmonton Country Club.
Does this count as topping off? Faber Construction’s team celebrates reaching the peak of Mount Baker. From top to bottom, the active volcano a 3,288 metre climb.
The Shot of the Month goes to:
Finning
Finning celebrates International Dog Day with some furry friends and Caterpillar machinery.
Key Takeaways:
The sites include Highway 97 at Cottonwood Hill north of Quesnel and Blackwater Road at Knickerbocker Road.
Crews at both sites are completing geotechnical investigations and environmental investigations to inform the ultimate project design.
Construction is scheduled to begin next year.
The Whole Story:
B.C. has approved $538 million worth of road improvement projects for the Cariboo.
Officials say the projects will improve highway safety and reliability with two restoration projects that will stabilize roads located on historic landslide sites.
“Restoring safe and reliable highways and roads in the Cariboo supports vital services and connections for people in the region,” said Rob Fleming, minister of transportation and infrastructure. “With weather patterns changing as part of our new climate reality, building infrastructure that withstands extreme weather in the long term will keep people safe and maintain critical goods movement corridors across the province.”
On Highway 97 at Cottonwood Hill north of Quesnel, a segment of highway affected by a significant slow-moving landslide will be stabilized. Highway 97 is a north-south artery that provides crucial access between communities in the region and is vital to the province’s economy.
On Blackwater Road at Knickerbocker Road, a road segment affected by landslides will undergo realignment and reinforcement, as well as measures to help prevent future slides in the project area.
Crews at both sites are completing work, such as geotechnical investigations, which includes collecting soil and water samples to inform the project designs, and environmental investigations. Construction is scheduled to begin next year.
These are the first two projects within the Cariboo Road Recovery Projects program to move to construction. Both are being designed with a focus on resilience to changing weather patterns while addressing stability issues and building infrastructure for the long term.
The province has approved $538 million in funding for these projects. This includes $334.6 million for the Highway 97 at Cottonwood Hill project and $203.4 million for the Blackwater Road at Knickerbocker Road project.
Key Takeaways:
The extra funding aims to help get at least 100,000 workers free training.
The funding will prioritize programs that propose innovative training solutions to help people on social assistance and with prior criminal records.
It will target critical industries like healthcare, auto-manufacturing, information technology, hospitality and the skilled trades.
The announcement brings Ontario’s total investment in the Skills Development Fund Training Stream to over $860 million.
The Whole Story:
The Ontario government wants to make sure those with a criminal record can get a second chance at life with a career in the skilled trades.
Officials announced plans to invest an additional $160 million in the Skills Development Fund (SDF) to tackle the labour shortage and help at least 100,000 workers get free training. The funding will prioritize programs that propose innovative training solutions to help people on social assistance and with prior criminal records find meaningful employment in critical industries like healthcare, auto-manufacturing, information technology, hospitality and the skilled trades.
“For too long, too many in our community have been forgotten and treated as second class in their own province. In the middle of a historic labour shortage, we need all hands on deck,” said Monte McNaughton, minister of labour, immigration, training and skills development. “That is why our government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure we give anyone who wants a job and a paycheque they can be proud of a shot at the Ontario dream. Whether you’ve been on social assistance for 10 months or 10 years, we’ll help you.”
The province noted that roughly 300,000 jobs in Ontario are going unfilled every day, which threatens to hurt the economy and stall the government’s infrastructure plans, including building at least 1.5 million homes by 2031. At the same time, more than 800,000 people in Ontario rely on social assistance when the majority are willing, able and eager to work. This includes hundreds of thousands of people with a criminal record and have not reoffended – almost half of whom are on social assistance even 15 years after release from prison.
In response, the fourth round of the Skills Development Fund Training Stream will support programs that help them find meaningful work and tackle the labour shortage.
The announcement was made in Dresden, where the government announced a $465,000 investment through a previous round of the Skills Development Fund Training Stream to prepare 24 young people for well-paying careers in construction and the skilled trades in Chatham-Kent. SkillShift will provide a free six-week introductory course that teaches participants essential skills for construction, such as blueprint reading, scissor lift certifications, as well as financial literacy and soft skills, with mentors, networking opportunities and $1,125 for equipment and transportation. Participants will also receive a paid two-week job placement with a local employer.
“Through this transformative $465,000 investment, the Government of Ontario is shaping brighter futures for 24 youth in Chatham-Kent while invigorating our local construction industry,” said Phillip Mock, executive director at Vision Us. “Vision Us is excited to be leading this investment in our community with our partners.”
“This $465,000 investment in our youth through the Skills Development Fund is a transformative step,” says Trevor Jones, MPP for Chatham-Kent-Leamington. “Empowering youth for rewarding careers in construction and skilled trades not only secures their future but also fuels the growth of Chatham-Kent-Leamington as a thriving community.”
The announcement brings Ontario’s total investment in the Skills Development Fund Training Stream to over $860 million.
And if you are seeking a job, check out the full list of available positions.
Jeannine Martin is the new Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) president. The group stated that with over twenty-five years of industry experience in private construction and engineering, and leadership on local industry boards, the British Columbia Construction Roundtable (BCCR) and the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – British Columbia (ACEC-BC), Martin understands the challenges and opportunities facing B.C.’s construction industry.
In her first 100 days with the association, Martin will focus on:
Building connections with VRCA members, stakeholders, and staff
Operationalizing VRCA’s Strategic Plan
Working with the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) to advance Prompt Payment legislation and other topline issues including the shortage of skilled trades
Continuing to develop VRCA’s Reconciliation Action Plan
Maddison Sharples has joined the Fengate Asset Management team as director of marketing and communications for its infrastructure business. Previously, Sharples worked as senior manager of marketing and communications for ACCIONA North America.
Aubrey Tucker has announced his return to the architecture, engineering, construction, owner, operator (AECOO) industry with the launch of Tucker Technology Consulting. The firm will help clients deliver BIM projects, make Digital Twins, transform project delivery and find new digital strategies.
Marcia Braundy has been presented with a Lifetime Achievement award by the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum for her outstanding dedication to advancing women in the trades. The group stated that Braundy’s trailblazing efforts in advancing women in trades serve as a remarkable example of the power and impact of women. Braundy was one of the first women in B.C. to become a Red Seal carpenter despite facing severe harassment. Since then she’s spent decades researching, promoting and improving trades careers for women.
Marcia Braundy practices roof framing while attending school in the 1980s. – BCIT Archives
Darryl Conroy is the new president of Professional Excavators & Construction Inc. The company provides earthworks services, site services, concrete flatworks, and asphalt paving for civil and commercial projects within the City of Calgary and throughout the Province of Alberta. Conroy’s previous position was manager of underground construction at Standard General Calgary.
Marco Bolk has been promoted by Burns & McDonnell lead the engineering, architecture and construction firm’s Canadian Construction Group, with Bolk based in Calgary. The firm’s Canadian operations offers full-service engineering, construction and consulting solutions in a variety of sectors. Prior to coming to Burns & McDonnell, Bolk managed regional offices in both Ontario and Western Canada, focusing on turnkey engineer-procure-construct (EPC) solutions.
Daljit Thind, founder and CEO of Thind Properties, has been awarded the Order of British Columbia. It is the highest form of recognition the province can bestow upon a citizen. Thind came to Canada in the 1990s and worked laying tile. He was inspired to build homes for other immigrants and has now created more than $4 billion worth of developments. He has also donated millions to charity.
“His impact on B.C. is seen in many ways: he transforms neglected areas into prosperous ones. He helps thousands of people build their own prosperity; and he focuses on building community instead of only erecting buildings.”
The Province of B.C. on Daljit Thind
Mohamed Adel has been promoted to digital construction director-buildings at Bird Construction. Adel called the position “a dream come true” as he has always been passionate about digital transformation and innovation in the construction industry. Adel joined Bird four years ago as a BIM manager for the Atlantic Region, and since then he has been working on a transformative program to implement true digital construction at the company.
Guido Wimmers has been appointed dean of the British Columbia Institute of Technology‘s School of Construction and the Environment. Prior to moving to Canada in 2007, Wimmers collaborated with multi-disciplinary teams across Austria, Germany, and Italy, focusing on energy-efficient and sustainable building projects. In B.C., he played an instrumental role in the implementation of the International Passive House Standards in the province and across Canada. Wimmers will take over the position from Wayne Hand, who is set to retire in September.
Wayne Hand (pictured) is retiring from his position as dean of the BCIT School of Construction and the Environment. – BCIT
Kirk Fisher has been appointed CEO of Lark Group of Companies. Lark noted that Fisher has been instrumental in shaping the company’s trajectory for decades. His journey began at the King George Mobile Home Park and continued as he played a pivotal role in establishing the Health and Technology District and the HealthTech Connex Inc. group of companies.
Walid Abou-Hamde has been named executive director of the Ontario Road Builders’ Association (ORBA). Abou-Hamde, who holds an Honours Bachelor of Applied Science in chemical engineering, has worked with the provincial government in the Infrastructure and Labour portfolios, as well as Skilled Trades Ontario.
“We are convinced that Walid will be able to leverage the strengths that he has achieved over the past seven years to benefit ORBA and Ontario Asphalt Pavement Council (OAPC) members. ORBA/OAPC priorities over the next several years will focus on contract and risk management, workforce development and sustainability.”
Mario Villeneuve – ORBA President
The first steps have been taken on an ambitious journey to help all industries within health and safety use cutting edge technology to evolve the audit process saving you time and money.
SALUS, a digital health and safety management platform created for the construction sector, is working with software companies and associations in Alberta as part of a new approach to build a more collaborative community to service all industries.
Rather than a typical quid pro quo approach to generate fast revenue or get access to new customer leads, SALUS’ goal is simple: make health and safety in construction and all industries better, together.
They believe that if they can demonstrate their commitment to this goal, it could start a transformation that spreads across all industries and improve it for everybody.
“We have an opportunity to be the catalyst for helping the health and safety industry to evolve to the next level.”
Gabe Guetta – SALUS Founder and CEO
“For us, the industry is what matters — pulling relationships together, creating networks, and creating efficiencies for your customers. If they are happy, we are happy and everybody wins,” said Gabe Guetta, SALUS CEO and founder. “Software companies breaking into the construction industry need to stop focusing on the money. They need to focus on the relationships and the bigger picture of how their products help change the industry. Money comes in the end when those primary objectives have been accomplished.”
Guetta explained that some industries such as the construction industry can be incredibly fragmented. For a project, you often have a general contractor work with dozens of subcontractors. Many are using completely different software systems for health and safety that don’t integrate with each other. Some aren’t using software at all.
“We want to start a process where we can bring things together. This could be the first step towards that,” said Guetta. “We want businesses to partner with us because it makes them better.
There is value that comes from the partnership. They grow better with us compared to going at it alone.”
Partnering with AuditSoft
To kick this process off, SALUS’ team announced a partnership with AuditSoft, which was founded in Alberta. The company’s award-winning software enables best practice safety and compliance auditing at scale, and was launched to make Certificate of Recognition (COR) auditing more efficient and impactful.
AuditSoft’s solution suite drives standardization and inter-auditor consistency, then deconstructs audit scores to analyze the data comparatively.
“We want to aggregate that auditing data to see areas of improvement, drive training and awareness, and see how the industry is moving toward compliance,” explained AuditSoft founder Ben Snyman. “These insights enable data-driven decision-making at both Association and membership level and fuel continuous improvement.”
The collaboration will integrate SALUS with AuditSoft’s Open API, allowing users to access and embed critical safety documents, submitted forms, and worker certificates directly into their audit reports with a click of a button. This enhanced functionality alleviates the burden of manual data transfer and optimizes audit workflows.
“We are all part of the ecosystem of data and don’t really need to compete. This adds value to all the stakeholders,” said Snyman. “We have a long term view. We believe in what SALUS is doing and believe over time the value will be reciprocal.”
Working with Certifying Partners
But SALUS hasn’t stopped there. Their team is also working with the Alberta Association for Safety Partnerships (AASP), one of Alberta’s largest official certifiers for the COR program, to streamline access for members. AASP CEO Ray Gaetz explained that the association was an early AuditSoft adopter and he is excited to see it integrated into other software that can be made available to all members in all industries.
“If you don’t have a good management system with a good dashboard that can help you manage details at your fingertips, it’s like herding cats,” he said. “Any company that is growing their health and safety program wants to save time, money and ensure that they can follow up on things in a timely fashion. You can’t afford not to have it.”
The integration comes at an auspicious time for the province. Ray explained that the COR certifying partners and government officials have been holding meetings on how to harmonize efforts and improve health and safety for everyone.
“We are now working towards the possibility of accepting other province’s COR certifications,” he said. “If we can do that across Canada that will be a huge win.”
Part of this effort has been AASP’s input on AuditSoft and pushing to make it available to every certifying partner. But after spending two decades working in human resources and overseeing COR certifications, Gaetz is cautious about what he recommends for members. He believes that AuditSoft and SALUS can help the industry achieve its safety goals for years to come.
“They knew who we were, how we operated, and shared the same values. And that is what I see in SALUS: a very customer service focused, cutting edge technology, and a quality product that they support,” he said. “They say they are in it for the long haul and that’s very important to us, having someone that won’t just disappear. Collaborating with companies like that is very important.”
Guetta explained that its collaborative approach in Alberta is just the beginning. SALUS plans to approach each major construction market in a bespoke way to try and bring its health and safety stakeholders together.
One of the big challenges is getting direct competitors to work together. Guetta believes that over time SALUS can knock down those walls with their actions.
“We have an opportunity to be the catalyst for helping the health and safety industry to evolve to the next level,” he said. “We can help power that change. And you have to look at that as the value, not the money. If you can help bring everyone together and create this community and bring change, that is powerful.”
There are still some weeks of summer left and we want you to make the most of it. Check out some upcoming events for construction professionals all across Canada.
ICBA Construction Innovation Summit / Oct. 30-31 / Vancouver, B.C.
The Independent Contractors and Businesses Association is hosting a massive, two-day event for construction leaders who want to push the industry forward. The Construction Innovation Summit will feature North American Industry thought leaders, executive leadership panels, and construction-specific leadership topics from field leadership to pre-construction. It includes more than 20 keynotes and panels, dozens of innovation exhibitors and tons of networking opportunities. One of our panel picks is “Rising to the Challenge – Building a Thriving Workforce in the Midst of the Labour Shortage”.
CCA Annual Conference / March 12-15 / Dominican Republic
The 2024 Canadian Construction Association (CCA) Annual Conference is taking place in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. In addition to many panels, speeches, awards and networking opportunities, the Group’s National Advisory Council (NAC) meetings and Annual General Meeting (AGM) will also take place at the same location.
VRCA Awards of Excellence Gala / Oct. 17 / Vancouver, B.C.
The Vancouver Regional Construction Association’s Awards of Excellence Gala is returning to the Vancouver Convention Centre West on Tuesday, October 17th, 2023. The event will recognize individual and company achievements in the local construction industry. It is one of the premier awards shows for B.C.’s construction sector.
Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA) members will head to Halifax next month for the group’s Annual General Meeting & Conference. The conference aims to bring together professionals from various fields to exchange ideas, explore new trends, and foster collaboration. Organizers say attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights, learn from industry leaders, and enhance their professional network. It will include a pub crawl, legal workshops and more.
Interdisciplinary Symposium on Smart & Sustainable Infrastructures (ISSSI)
Sept. 4-8 / Vancouver, B.C.
The primary objective of ISSSI 2023 is to create an environment of mutual cooperation between experts in materials and structures and provide a forum for active dialogue. The organizers believe that it is only through a multi-disciplinary approach that significant cross-fertilization of ideas can occur and innovative solutions to infrastructural inadequacies can be found. One special part of ISSSI 2023 is the presence of industry and government on a common platform with the academia. Topics include high carbon emissions from the construction industry, sensors, robotics and AI.
Toronto Mass Timber Conference / Sept. 7-8 / Toronto, Ont.
This two-day live event is all about exploring mass timber design and construction methods, learning about the latest mass timber developments, and networking with like-minded professionals and over 18 guest speakers. The conference, co-organized by Rothoblaas and the Brookfield Sustainability Institute (BSI), will feature presentations, discussions, and plenty of networking opportunities.
Tunnelling Association of Canada Conference / Sept. 24-26 / Toronto, Ont.
The theme for the association’s 2023 conference is “Smart Solutions, Future Growth”. Organizers say this theme be highlighted throughout the event through keynote speakers, plenary presentations, technical sessions, networking, and a trade exhibition to showcase tunnelling and trenchless technology throughout Canada and around the world.
Housing Supply Summit / Oct. 12 / Virtual
The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) plans to virtually hold its third Housing Supply Summit on Oct. 12. The theme of this year’s virtual conference is “Driving Solutions to the Crisis”. Topices include a residential market update, government taxes, development approvals, modernization and digitization, construction innovation and technology.
BC Construction Health & Safety Conference / Oct. 19-20 / Vancouver, B.C.
The BC Construction Safety Alliance has finalized the 2023 BC Construction Health & Safety Conference speaker roster. The conference will take place Oct. 19-20 at the Pinnacle Harbourfront Hotel in Vancouver. Presented by the Offsite Construction Network, the Offsite Construction Expo will be live in Toronto, Ontario, in June to offer all attendees a focused presentation of the abilities of offsite construction across all markets.
ConEX The Builders Expo / Sept. 28 / Saskatoon, Sask.
ConEX is the first-ever Saskatchewan construction trade show and conference. It will feature more than 100 booths to showcase the newest and most innovative products and services. It also includes networking opportunities, and presentations from public and private sector owners about their upcoming projects.
BUILDEX Alberta / Oct. 18-19 / Calgary, Alta.
Join industry peers from Architecture, Interior Design, Construction, Engineering, Property Management and Homebuilding & Renovation professions at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre for two days of networking, learning and finding new solutions. BUILDEX Alberta is a major opportunity for architecture, design, construction, and property management professionals to do business-to-business networking.
Trades Expo / Oct. 18-19 / Surrey, B.C.
The largest interactive trades even in the B.C., Trades Expo is for anyone interested in the trades. Youth, Women, Men, newcomers, and career changers, Trades Expo aims to provide a path to a sustainable career.
The Canadian Steel Conference / Sept. 26-27 / Toronto, Ont.
Modelling the best practices of the steel construction industry, the Canadian Steel Conference offers the opportunity for all participants to meet, exchange, collaborate and network with industry leaders and stakeholders. This CISC Conference also offers a comprehensive program of multiple business development, educational, and networking activities.
BUILDEX Vancouver / Feb. 14-15 2024 / Vancouver, B.C.
Planning is well underway for BUILDEX Vancouver. Organizers are looking to finalize their speaker line up by the end of August. The even will explore the future of design, construction, architecture, engineering, homebuilding & renovation, and property management. The show will offer a comprehensive educational program with skills building seminars, workshops, panel discussions, and engaging keynotes to enable you to compete in today’s evolving market.
Beyond the BILD Conference / Sept. 14-17 / Banff, Alta.
This fall industry members will gather in one of the Alberta’s most picturesque locations to celebrate, network and learn at BILD Alberta’s annual conference event. The multi-day event will feature learning sessions, a trade show, a golf tournament and more. You can be a part of the event by becoming a sponsor or exhibiting in the trade show. But this is not an event to wait on. Hotel rooms at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel are currently sold out. A waiting list and instructions will be provided upon registration along with alternative hotel options.
The Canadian Leadership Institute / Oct. 2-5 / Kananaskis, Alta.
The Canadian Leadership Institute features three intensive days of simulations, instructional time, assessments, and one-on-one coaching. For more than 20 years, FMI Corporation has been presenting Leadership Institutes to the American construction market. Now that training is available in Alberta thanks to a partnership with the Edmonton Construction Association.
The Buildings Show / Nov. 29-Dec. 1 / Toronto, Ont.
For 35 years, The Buildings Show features seminars, informative panels and thought-provoking roundtables. This year’s show will take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Nov. 29 – Dec. 1. Last year’s show saw more than 13,000 visitors, 270 speakers and 478 exhibitors.
Road Builders Fall Business Conference / Sept. 17-18 / Kelowna, B.C.
Meet the GC is a new event designed to support meaningful connections between the Ottawa Construction Association’s general contractor members and its trade contractors, manufacturer and suppliers, and Industry service providers. This event will be part of a series that focuses on networking and connections. Each general contractor will be invited to the stage to give a brief summary of their firm, current and upcoming projects, and expectations for business in the year ahead. This will be followed by a networking opportunities. These events will be hosted multiple times across the calendar year.
*Editor’s Note: know of an event you think Canada’s builders should attend? Send an email to hello@readsitenews.com so we can add it to this list.
Key Takeaways:
A portion will go to single and lower tier municipalities that have not been assigned a housing target, including small, rural and northern communities.
The fund will provide $400 million in new annual funding for three years to municipalities that are on target to meet provincial housing targets by 2031.
The province is also expanding strong mayor powers to municipalities projected to have populations of 50,000 or larger by 2031 that commit to meeting their provincial targets.
The Whole Story:
Municipalities that are hitting homebuilding targets are set to receive millions in Ontario.
To encourage home construction, the Ontario government is launching the Building Faster Fund, a new three-year, $1.2 billion program that provides new funding to municipalities based on performance against provincial housing targets.
To ensure more municipalities have the tools needed to build homes and to expand eligibility for the Building Faster Fund, the province is also expanding strong mayor powers to municipalities projected to have populations of 50,000 or larger by 2031 that commit to meeting their provincial targets.
“With these new measures, we’re supporting municipalities and giving them the tools they need to build more homes faster to tackle the affordability crisis that’s pricing too many people, especially young families and newcomers, out of the dream of home ownership,” said Premier Doug Ford. “We have two choices: We can sit back and ignore the crisis, or we can build more homes. Our government is choosing to build homes.”
The fund will provide $400 million in new annual funding for three years to municipalities that are on target to meet provincial housing targets by 2031. Municipalities that reach 80% of their annual target each year will become eligible for funding based on their share of the overall goal of 1.5 million homes. Municipalities that exceed their target will receive a bonus on top of their allocation.
Funding from the Building Faster Fund can be directed toward housing-enabling infrastructure and other related costs that support community growth. Eligible expenses will be determined following consultations between the province, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, the City of Toronto and the Housing Supply Action Plan Implementation Team.
A portion of the overall funding will also be allocated to single and lower tier municipalities that have not been assigned a housing target, including small, rural and northern communities, in order to address their unique needs, following municipal consultations.
Ontario is also expanding strong mayor powers to 21 more municipalities that are projected to have populations of 50,000 by 2031 and whose heads of council are committed to a provincially assigned housing target. The expansion of strong mayor powers will take effect on October 31, 2023. The expansion is in addition to the 28 municipalities that already have strong mayor powers, having committed to targets through municipal housing pledges. Once a housing pledge is received from the head of council, these municipalities will also become eligible for and will have access to the Building Faster Fund.
“There is an urgent need to get more homes built quickly across Ontario,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark. “By providing additional financial resources to our municipal partners as well as strong mayor powers to help speed up the approvals process, our government is acting decisively to tackle Ontario’s housing supply crisis and build the homes our residents need and deserve.”
Heidelberg Materials has entered into a definitive purchase agreement to acquire Green Drop Rock Products located in Cochrane, Alta. Green Drop Rock Products is an independent producer of aggregates with a high-capacity plant that is well positioned to supply the Calgary market.
Heidelberg stated that the acquisition of the Green Drop Rock Products business will further strengthen the company’s aggregates reserves in the Greater Calgary area and reinforce its integrated footprint in the market. They added that the assets of Green Drop Rock Products complement their existing operations in the area.
The province of Alberta is also home to Heidelberg Materials’ Edmonton plant, where the cement industry’s first global full-scale carbon capture and storage facility is being built. The new facility is scheduled to be operational by late 2026 and will capture more than 1 million tonnes of CO2 annually.
The transaction is expected to close in early September 2023. This acquisition reflects Heidelberg Materials’ strategic plan to optimise its portfolio in core markets and strengthen its existing businesses through bolt-on acquisitions.
Heidelberg Materials is one of the world’s largest integrated manufacturers of building materials and solutions with leading market positions in cement, aggregates, and ready-mixed concrete. They are represented in more than 50 countries with around 51,000 employees at almost 3,000 locations.
