Author: Russell Hixson

Key Takeaways:

• The Professional Engineers Government of Ontario (PEGO) is in a bargaining dispute with the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS), citing insufficient progress in addressing resourcing challenges and inadequate compensation for engineers working on Ontario’s infrastructure projects.
• Engineers are preparing to withdraw services from crucial infrastructure projects, such as Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, due to concerns over recruitment, retention, and compensation disparities, potentially leading to delays and disruptions.
• PEGO highlights that its members earn 30% to 50% less than their counterparts in municipalities, other government agencies, or the private sector, and argues that this pay gap is contributing to staffing shortages and jeopardizing Ontario’s infrastructure priorities.

The Whole Story:

A group of professional engineers is preparing to withdraw their services from key Ontario infrastructure projects, including Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, due to an ongoing bargaining dispute with the provincial government.

The Professional Engineers Government of Ontario (PEGO), the union representing Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors employed by the Ontario Public Service (OPS), says that progress in collective bargaining with the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS) continues to be stalled.

Earlier this month PEGO, representing about 600 senior government engineers, began their first strike action in 35 years. The union initiated a work-to-rule campaign on Oct. 8, with members stopping unpaid overtime and ceasing to cover other staff’s responsibilities.

According to PEGO, on October 18 during a mediator-assisted bargaining session, TBS representatives presented a substantially unchanged offer that does not address the resourcing challenge within the OPS to support Ontario’s infrastructure plans.

“The intransigence of Treasury Board negotiators continues to be frustrating and inexplicable to our members. Its latest proposal runs directly counter to the needs of Ontario’s infrastructure development and maintenance agenda.” said PEGO President, Nihar Bhatt, P.Eng. “Without proper investment in Ontario’s vital engineering and surveying functions, this government’s key infrastructure priorities cannot be met on a cost-effective and timely basis.”

PEGO officials argued that the difference between PEGO and TBS bargaining positions is a very small fraction of Ontario’s annual engineering spending of $1 billion and an even smaller fraction of the $20 billion in overall infrastructure costs spent by Ontario every year. They added that they believe a deal is possible and PEGO would strongly prefer this, but to do so “TBS needs to do much better, recognizing the value of Ontario’s engineering and land surveying expertise.”

PEGO stated that it has provided the Treasury Board with an analysis showing that PEGO members earn at least 30% to 50% less than they could earn in the broader Ontario market for their skills by working for municipalities, other government agencies, or in the private sector. 

PEGO officials explained that they are deeply concerned about the challenge Ontario faces in recruiting and retaining expert engineering and land surveying staff. They argued that mounting vacancies could result in impacts and delays on key priorities of the government, including Highway 413, the Bradford Bypass, and others – some of which have been recently designated as priority projects for construction.

Bhatt continued: “The latest proposal from the Treasury Board negotiators is not getting us any closer to a fair deal. Instead, the current proposal ignores the pleas of OPS engineering and land surveying managers for adequate resources as well as the mountain of evidence showing that Ontario will continue to lose highly skilled engineers and surveyors as they find higher-paying opportunities with other levels of government or the private sector.  It will continue to be tough for OPS managers to hire the excellent engineers and surveyors that it needs.”

PEGO says it stands ready to negotiate for a fair deal, but the next step rests with the Treasury Board negotiators to bring back to the table a “significantly improved offer”.  

They advised that the union’s legal work-to-rule action will remain in place, and will shortly escalate to the withdrawal of labour by select PEGO represented employees. 

“While this labour dispute will impact the delivery of Ontario’s key infrastructure commitments and the management of existing infrastructure and operations, PEGO is ensuring its strike is both tightly focused and responsible, reflecting PEGO’s commitment to the people of Ontario and our members’ preference to bargain in good faith towards a new contract that addresses the critical shortage in engineering and land surveying expertise in the OPS,” said the group. 

Clean power might be beneath our feet.

Canada is making significant strides in geothermal energy, leveraging its diverse geological conditions to develop both power generation and heating solutions. From large-scale power facilities to innovative district heating systems, these projects showcase a wide range of applications for geothermal energy.

Indigenous leadership, government support, and private sector partnerships play crucial roles in advancing geothermal initiatives that blend sustainability with economic development. The following projects exemplify Canada’s growing commitment to clean energy, innovation, and community involvement.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Expansion

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is undergoing a significant expansion, which includes the integration of one of Canada’s largest geothermal energy systems. The project involves a 300,000-square-foot terminal addition and a state-of-the-art Central Utilities Building that features a geoexchange system. Hundreds of vertical boreholes and 841,000 feet of HDPE geothermal piping have been installed, enhancing the airport’s heating and cooling capabilities through sustainable geothermal energy.

This expansion, located in Richmond, British Columbia, is a joint effort between YVR, local contractors, and environmental consultants, working to meet the airport’s sustainability goals.

DEEP Earth Energy Production Project

DEEP, located near Torquay in southeast Saskatchewan, is set to become Canada’s first large-scale geothermal power facility. DEEP Earth Energy Production Corp. is developing a 25 MW geothermal power plant, with the potential for expansion to over 200 MW. The project uses production and injection wells drilled to depths of 3.5 km, leveraging Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) technology. SaskPower has signed a 5 MW power purchase agreement, and Natural Resources Canada is providing support.

In a groundbreaking partnership, DEEP has teamed up with Oppy, a major grower and distributor of fresh produce, to establish an integrated greenhouse, harnessing geothermal energy for both clean power generation and sustainable agriculture.

Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal Project

The Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal Project, located in Fort Nelson, British Columbia, is an ambitious initiative led by the Fort Nelson First Nation, with support from Natural Resources Canada. Formerly known as the Clarke Lake Geothermal Project, it aims to utilize geothermal energy from existing gas well data to provide clean, renewable energy to the region. The geothermal resource is expected to meet the region’s electrical needs entirely.

In addition to power generation, the project includes plans for an industrial greenhouse, creating jobs and fostering energy sovereignty for the Fort Nelson First Nation.

Swan Hills Geothermal Power Project

The Swan Hills Geothermal Power Project, located in Alberta, became commercially operational in March 2023. Developed by FutEra Power, a subsidiary of Razor Energy Corp., this 21-MW facility uniquely combines geothermal energy with co-produced hydrocarbon fluids from an enhanced oil recovery (EOR) operation. It leverages existing infrastructure, tapping into 84 wells to generate clean energy from water heated to 90°C–100°C.

The project is a collaboration between Razor Energy Corp., FutEra Power, and other industry stakeholders, highlighting the potential for hybrid geothermal solutions in Alberta’s energy transition.

Alberta No. 1 Project

The Alberta No. 1 Project, located near Grande Prairie, Alberta, is a significant geothermal initiative aiming to generate 5 MW of power for the grid. Led by Terrapin Geothermics, the project will also provide heat to a nearby industrial park, supporting local industry with sustainable energy solutions. Alberta No. 1 has received substantial funding from Natural Resources Canada, highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing geothermal energy in the country.

This project stands out for its potential to stimulate local economic growth and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Springhill, Nova Scotia Heat Pump System

The Springhill Heat Pump System is a unique geothermal project located in Nova Scotia, repurposing a former coal mine for geothermal energy production. Warm water from the abandoned mine is used to heat portions of the Springhill Industrial Park through eight heat pump systems.

This innovative project demonstrates how geothermal energy can be harvested from non-traditional sources, such as abandoned mines. Approximately 3% of Nova Scotia’s energy is now generated from geothermal sources, and the Springhill system is a key example of how regions with historic mining activity can be transformed into hubs for clean energy production.

South Meager Geothermal Project

The South Meager Geothermal Project, located about 60 kilometers northwest of Pemberton, British Columbia, is one of Canada’s most advanced geothermal energy ventures. Developed by Western GeoPower Corp. in its earlier stages, this high-temperature, volcano-hosted project has undergone extensive exploration since the 1970s, including geological, geochemical, and geophysical studies.

With geothermal wells exceeding 230°C and strong permeability zones, the South Meager project holds the potential for significant power generation. The development is expected to supply renewable energy to British Columbia and diversify its energy sources.

Valemount Geothermal Project

Situated near Valemount, British Columbia, the Valemount Geothermal Project is another emerging geothermal initiative in Canada. The project is in the exploratory stage, with initial studies indicating significant potential for electricity production. Once operational, it is expected to provide around 15-20 MW of power.

The Valemount area is geologically favorable due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, where geothermal heat is readily accessible. This project not only aims to generate renewable power but also plans to provide direct heat to the local community, offering a unique opportunity for sustainable development in the region. The project is backed by Borealis GeoPower, a leading Canadian geothermal company.

Kitselas Geothermal

Located in Terrace, British Columbia, the Terrace Geothermal Project is part of a broader effort to explore the geothermal potential of the region. Developed by Kitselas Geothermal Inc., a partnership between Borealis GeoPower and the Kitselas First Nation, the project focuses on producing both electricity and heat.

The area has shown significant geothermal promise, with preliminary studies confirming high temperatures beneath the surface. The project is expected to supply clean power to local communities and industries, including potential use in district heating systems. This project also highlights the increasing role of First Nations in renewable energy development, fostering both energy independence and economic growth.

B.C.

Three new buildings bring UBC’s workforce housing to nearly 1,400 homes

14-storey mixed-used project proposed for Mount Pleasant

Cedar Coast kicks off large strata industrial build near Vancouver airport

Gracorp and Fiera Real Estate in legal battle over JV project in Vancouver

Gerry Enns Contracting has broken ground on its Cascade project 

Ontario

Ontario breaks ground on long-term care home in Brantford

Toronto picks team to reimagine the Bentway Traffic Islands

Mizrahi Developments project In Ottawa enters restructuring

AECOM selected to provide program management services

Crews achieve multiple milestones on Ottawa Public Library work

FORMA has gone above grade

Trillium Line passes trial run

Alberta

Bearspaw South Feeder Main phase three repairs begin

Alberta to officially open cancer facility in Calgary to patients

Harrison Street launches third Calgary student housing investment

Falcon One in Edmonton has achieved substantial completion

Manitoba

flood-prevention project under review

Carrington Real Estate revives Donald-St. Mary residential tower project

Quebec

Montreal’s stadium ruled out for possible home of the Tampa Bay Rays

Montreal’s first organic waste treatment centre finally opens

Procore has announced the nominees for its Groundbreaker Awards 24, which includes two of the nominees from Canada: Toronto-based Multiplex Construction for the Excellence in Sustainability Award; and Burnaby, B.C.-based Houle Electric for the Excellence in Culture & Workforce Development Award.

Procore looked for the companies, projects and people behind the construction industry’s boldest achievements in the following categories:

• Excellence in Sustainability
• Excellence in Innovation
• Excellence in Health & Safety
• Excellence in Community
• Excellence in Culture & Workforce Development
• Groundbreaker of the Year
• Excellence in Project Delivery – People’s Choice Award

Two Canadian companies are among this year’s nominees.

Excellence in Sustainability

This award celebrates the company or project that most efficiently uses resources and embraces environmentally responsible processes throughout every stage of construction.

Nominee: Multiplex Construction (Toronto, ON)

Multiplex Construction Canada is focused on their path towards sustainability— they intend to reach net zero carbon in their supply chain by 2050 or earlier, plus zero Scope 1 & 2 on-site and office emissions by 2030. Multiplex is the first Canadian construction company to set a Science-Based Target and the first contractor globally to sign the World Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Commitment. As they progress on their Decarbonization Roadmap, they utilize alternative fuels, conduct embodied carbon assessments, embrace low carbon solutions and engage their supply chain to track and collaboratively reduce emissions throughout the construction process.

Excellence in Culture & Workforce Development

This award celebrates the company that displays a focus on company culture including, but not limited to diversity, equity and inclusion and best promotes a continued focus on developing the next construction generation.

Nominee: Houle Electric (Burnaby, B.C.)

As one of B.C.’s leading electrical contractors and systems integrators, Houle is a company that puts people first–empowering communities through local projects that positively impact people’s lives. Houle champions diversity, equity, and inclusion and is committed to fostering a workplace where everyone is valued, supported, and provided the opportunity to grow. In addition to initiatives that focus on employee development, professional advancement, and continuous improvement, Houle supports programs for underrepresented groups, provides training for 300+ apprentices annually, and has higher than industry average participation of women in the electrical trade. By connecting people with purpose, they’re building a safer, more inclusive workplace and industry for everyone.

Key Takeaways:

• Statistics Canada estimates that replacing road and water systems in “poor” or “very poor” condition will require $356.7 billion, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure investment.
• Local and regional governments are responsible for 72% of Canada’s $2.6 trillion transportation and water infrastructure, owning the majority of roads (64%) and public transit assets (76%).
• With Canada experiencing its highest population growth rate since 1957, there has been a marked increase in the installation of water pipes and road construction, yet a significant portion of public transit and active transportation assets remain in unknown condition.

The Whole Story:

Statistics Canada estimates $356.7 billion will be required to replace road and water systems classified as being in “poor” or “very poor” condition, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure investment across the country.

Their latest data shows that the total replacement value of Canada’s transportation and water infrastructure reached $2.6 trillion at the end of 2022, with local and regional government organizations responsible for nearly three-quarters (72%) of this critical framework.

The survey reveals that local and regional governments own 64% of the replacement value of roads, 76% of public transit assets, and 82% of active transportation infrastructure. However, responsibility for bridges and tunnels predominantly rests with provincial and territorial governments, which hold 69% of these structures.

Public transit is undergoing a significant transformation, with municipalities of 200,000 residents or more owning 58% of public transit assets by current replacement value, while provincial governments account for 24%. Other local authorities hold the remaining 18%. From 2020 to 2022, the number of electric buses in public transit rose by 31%, alongside notable increases in biodiesel (+64%), natural gas (+30%), and hybrid buses (+15%). In contrast, the use of diesel buses declined by 16%, reflecting a shift towards greener alternatives.

Statistics Canada noted that as Canada grapples with its highest population growth rate since 1957, the demand for upgraded infrastructure has become increasingly critical. Between July 2022 and June 2023, there was a notable surge in the installation of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater pipes, with 29,100 km added—an average of 9,700 km per year. This pace surpasses the previous decades, where annual installations were significantly lower.

The pace of road construction has similarly increased, with an average of 12,396 two-lane equivalent kilometres completed annually from 2020 to 2022—exceeding previous periods by more than 25%. Rural municipalities own 57% of road lengths, while urban municipalities control the majority (62%) of active transportation infrastructure, including vital bikeways. As of the end of 2022, Canada had 28,122 km of bikeways, with nearly a quarter (23%) completed between 2020 and 2022. However, one-third of Canadian neighborhoods still lack adequate cycling infrastructure.

A significant concern emerges regarding the condition of public transit and active transportation assets. Approximately 17% of public transit assets and 42% of active transportation infrastructure are classified as being in unknown physical condition, with an estimated total replacement value of $45.7 billion. When combined with roads, bridges, and tunnels, this figure climbs to $141.7 billion. The road transportation infrastructure, encompassing roads, bridges, tunnels, and cycling paths, is valued at $1.63 trillion, with $250.2 billion (15%) estimated to be in poor or very poor condition.

Water infrastructure also faces challenges, with its current replacement value estimated at $963.0 billion. Over one-tenth (11%) of this infrastructure is rated as being in poor or very poor condition, amounting to $106.5 billion.

Key Takeways

• Alberta’s government has committed $112 million to support the rebuilding efforts in Jasper, with the primary focus on constructing interim housing for displaced residents, including those from the Pine Grove Seniors Citizens Manor, which was destroyed in the 2024 Jasper wildfire complex.
• The funding will be used to build approximately 250 modular homes for eligible displaced residents, providing a faster and efficient solution due to their off-site construction and permanent foundation installation. These homes will be offered at market rent and later sold when no longer needed for recovery.
• In addition to rebuilding in Jasper, up to 25 modular housing units will be built in Hinton for the displaced seniors from Pine Grove Manor. These units will initially serve as interim housing but will later be repurposed as affordable housing for the community.

The Whole Story:

Alberta’s government continues to support recovery efforts in Jasper and is helping residents return to the community with $112 million in funding for interim housing.

To support rebuilding efforts in Jasper, government is committing $112 million to build interim housing for displaced Jasper residents and residents of Pine Grove Senior Citizens Manor.

The 2024 Jasper wildfire complex destroyed or damaged around 30% of structures in Jasper, including the Pine Grove Seniors Citizens Manor, a government-owned building.

Work on the sites in Jasper has already begun, and the first residents are expected to begin moving in as early as January 2025. Homes in Jasper will be available for essential service workers and support service workers, and other eligible Jasper residents who lost their homes and are employed in the area. Alberta’s government will ensure that interim homes are ready for eligible residents as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“Our entire country grieved when wildfire ravaged Jasper this past summer. We know the rebuilding process takes time, and we’re doing all we can to support Jasper’s recovery,” said Premier Danielle Smith. “Most of all, people want to return home, and the funding we have approved will speed up that process so folks can rebuild their lives and move forward sooner.”

To support the interim housing needs of Jasperites, the government is supporting the construction of modular homes. It is estimated that this portion of the provincial funding will build 250 modular homes for eligible displaced Jasper residents. Modular homes are constructed off-site, in a controlled environment, to allow for all-season construction and accelerated schedules. They are installed using permanent foundations that ensure the safety and comfort of the occupants.

Interim housing units in Jasper will be provided at market rent, and applications and eligibility details will be released in the future. Units in Jasper will be sold at market value when they are no longer required for interim housing for Jasper recovery.

“On behalf of the people of Jasper, I extend our sincere gratitude to the Government of Alberta for their critical support in funding interim housing as we work to rebuild Jasper,” said Richard Ireland, mayor of Jasper. “This housing isn’t just about the buildings, it’s directly linked to our social and economic recovery including the mental well-being of the community as a whole.”

Alberta’s government is also supporting the residents of Pine Grove Manor with interim housing in Hinton. Pine Grove Manor was destroyed by the fire and this interim housing will keep residents close to their community while the seniors home is rebuilt. Up to 25 units of modular housing will be built for seniors in Hinton on a site that was given to the project by the Town of Hinton. These units in Hinton will later be used as affordable housing for the community. Work on these sites is expected to begin in January and the first seniors are expected to begin moving in as early as April 2025.

A request for proposals will be released on both of these projects as the next steps in this process. Funding from Alberta’s government will be contributed to these projects over two fiscal years.

Key Takeaways:

• The Ontario government is introducing legislation aimed at making “last mile” electricity connections for new homes and businesses easier and more affordable. This move is intended to reduce upfront capital costs and lower the financial burden on future homeowners and businesses.
• The government plans to amend the Distribution System Code (DSC) to extend the revenue horizon for infrastructure costs from 25 years to 40 years, spreading costs over a longer period. This change will make it more financially viable to connect residential developments to the grid.
• Ontario is establishing a Housing Electricity Growth Forum to bring together stakeholders, including municipalities, local utilities, and industry leaders, to discuss strategies for accelerating grid connections and reducing associated costs for housing developments.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government is introducing legislation intended to make “last mile” connections for construction easier and cheaper.

According to Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator, the province’s demand for electricity is forecast to increase by 75 per cent by 2050. That includes growing demand from new homes and industry, each of which will need to be connected to the province’s growing grid. Under existing rules, the process can be slow and burden homebuyers and new businesses with unreasonable costs.

“Too many families face barriers to homeownership, and that is why we are acting on all fronts to reduce the cost for future homeowners and investors,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “We are taking a generational lens to fixing a long-standing barrier for young Canadians to enter the housing market. As our population increases, our government will act decisively to implement our plan to connect the “last mile” so that ultimately, we cut costs for prospective homeowners and end the barriers to job-creating investment.”

The government intends to introduce legislation that will, if passed, support the construction of new homes and businesses by making it easier and more affordable to make those “last mile” connections. The legislation would amend the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998 to enable regulation making authority to protect existing ratepayers while reducing upfront capital costs of new lines that would otherwise increase the costs to new homes and businesses.

Minister Lecce has also asked the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) to implement all recommendations from its Housing Connections Report, to dramatically reduce barriers to home building, job-creating investment, and agricultural expansion. Ontario’s plan to reduce costs for families and businesses owners includes:

• Amending the Distribution System Code (DSC) to extend the revenue horizon for connecting residential developments from 25 years up to 40 years, allowing the costs of new infrastructure that will serve this province for generations to be spread over a longer period.
• Amending the DSC to provide clarity regarding the conditions under which a local distribution company should extend the connection horizon for new developments.
• Establishing a new capacity allocation model that considers multi customer, multi-year projects.
• Establishing a Housing Electricity Growth Forum to bring together designated municipalities with housing targets, impacted local utilities, industry and construction leaders, and the OEB to discuss ways to accelerate connections while reducing costs.
• Minister Lecce also asked the OEB to consider further amendments to the DSC to extend the connection horizon for new electricity lines to housing development projects to 15 years.

“Our government knows that we need all hands-on deck when it comes to addressing the province’s growth and housing supply challenges,’’ said Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “We owe it to the hardworking people of Ontario to help deliver the fully functioning infrastructure that supports the homes they need.”

These moves to reduce the costs of connecting to the grid will form a key part of the government’s vision for the future of the energy sector, which will be released in the coming days.

As builders look to the future of construction, it isn’t just about finding new ways to assemble concrete, steel, and wood. An invisible digital backbone is rising to support and optimize projects.

But it’s a shift that comes with challenges. Every day, new tech solutions enter the market. Knowing what to implement, and how, can be daunting.

That’s why the experts at Timescapes, a leading timelapse and job site analytics technology specifically designed for the construction industry, have released a new eBook aimed at helping firms overcome these hurdles and align their tech strategies with business goals. The eBook draws on observations gained from working with some of the industry’s leading builders, including EllisDon, but aims to make these insights accessible to small and mid-sized firms facing similar challenges.

“We wanted to share ideas about things companies should consider when selecting new technology, how to implement it, how to handle change management, what stakeholders to involve, and why technology needs to be viewed as necessary,” said Chester Boyes, co-founder of Timescapes. “The eBook is really designed to be a practical guide for tech adoption in the construction sector, especially for companies that maybe don’t have the dedicated resources that EllisDon has to adopt new technology.”

Aligning tech with business goals

One of the report’s most important takeaways is that technology adoption must align with a company’s business objectives and look at long-term strategies in addition to immediate benefits. Boyes emphasized the importance of this holistic approach.

“It’s more than just looking at a specific tool. Companies need to zoom out and examine the broader picture—it’s about aligning technology with your business goals and making sure the whole team is brought into it as well,” he said. This ensures that everyone, from project teams to those in head office, are on the same page.

Common mistakes in tech adoption

One of the most common mistakes companies make, according to Boyes, is not getting buy-in from project teams early on.

“You can spend a lot of money selecting technology and implementing it,  but if you don’t get the right buy-in, it’s not actually solving any problems—you haven’t validated it in the right ways and it’s not delivering value. You end up spending all this money on something that is seen as a hindrance rather than value-add so it just sits on the sidelines,” Boyes explained.

Timescapes customer EllisDon echoed this sentiment in the eBook, where they shared some of their own insights.

“If our field teams receive tools that they won’t use because they’re inefficient, create bottlenecks, and don’t work within the process, then we’re not going to get anything out of it. This is the biggest success piece,” said Hammad Chaudhry, Vice President, Innovation & Construction Technology at EllisDon. “People must use it because it’s making their jobs easier, not because they were told to use it.”

Boyes also pointed out that AI is the hot, current trend, but that doesn’t mean any solution that uses it will be beneficial for your business.

“AI is a bit of a buzzword at the moment. But the question is: how does it actually add value?” he said. For Timescapes, the focus is on delivering practical tools with immediate, measurable impact. “One example is looking at when a concrete pour was done on-site. We can tell you when they started and when they finished—much simpler things like that. We aren’t generating just a bunch of noise masked as insights. We focus on just starting with the basics and delivering real value and information that people need.”

Collect data today, reap benefits tomorrow

A crucial element of the eBook is the role of data collection and analysis. Boyes stressed that before companies can leverage data, they need to collect it in a structured, meaningful way. “You have to start collecting data in the first place, otherwise you can’t do anything with it down the line,” Boyes explained.

Nobody knows what tools will be available in the coming years. That’s why Timescapes encourages companies to start collecting data—even if they don’t yet know how it will be used—because having organized, structured data will be invaluable in the future in order to train machine learning algorithms. Boyes also cautioned that ensuring the quality of the data is key.

“If you have garbage in, you’ll get get garbage out,” said Boyes. “This is a problem with a lot of AI. If you’re feeding it low quality data and information, you’ll get completely worthless results.”

Invest in technology now

Boyes believes the construction industry is at a pivotal moment, where those that embrace technology will see significant gains.

“Construction is a very process-driven industry,” he explained. “What technology does is add a lot of value to the process in terms of optimization. The more you can optimize those processes, the more of a competitive advantage you can build. I think the opportunity for construction is massive.”

For smaller and mid-sized companies, the eBook serves as a blueprint for adopting technology in a strategic, phased way. Timescapes provides practical tactics on how to start small with pilot projects, validate tools with project teams, and then roll out successful initiatives on a broader scale.

Being part of the solution

Timescapes isn’t just helping companies pick tech solutions. They want to be part of the solution. They specialize in construction timelapse and job site analytics. Using smart, rugged construction cameras, their system captures high-resolution images and real-time data from sites, enabling project teams to monitor progress remotely. Their platform integrates AI-powered analytics, providing critical insights that help construction managers make informed decisions, resolve disputes, and enhance communication among stakeholders.

Boyes stressed that from the very beginning, one key focus of Timescapes’ technology is making sure it’s easy to use, so it doesn’t become a choke point in operations. Their team has put a lot of effort into ensuring the cameras can be installed in under 20 minutes and the platform is so user-friendly that information is accessible in just a few clicks.

“It’s really a collaboration tool that has a really fast speed to value, which is something that we’ve really focused on,” said Boyes. “You can decide that Timescapes is a good idea for your project, and get a camera up the next day so it starts collecting data.”

As construction companies look to the future, Timescapes’ eBook provides a clear path forward, demonstrating that tech adoption, when done right, can enhance both immediate project performance and long-term business success.

Get access to the full eBook, Don’t Get Left in the Dust: A Practical Guide to Tech Adoption in Construction, here.

Vice President, Finance – Burnaby, B.C. – ETRO Construction

Senior Construction Project Manager – Halifax, N.S. – Southwest Properties

Senior Estimator – Toronto, Ont. – KAPP Infrastructure

Senior Building Enclosure Engineer – Canmore, Alta. – ISL

Senior Project Manager, Commercial+Projects – North Vancouver, B.C. – Naikoon Contracting

Director of Construction – Calgary, Alta. – Highpoint Developments

Project Manager – Winnipeg, Man. – Bockstael Construction

Senior Site Superintendent – Fillmore Construction – Edmonton, Alta.

Project Manager – Burnaby, B.C. – Marcon

Key Takeaways:

• McNaughton emphasized the importance of skilled trades in building Canada and highlighted efforts in both Ontario and Alberta to attract and support skilled workers, including newcomers, to address labour shortages and enhance local economies.
• He focused on making the trades more inclusive, particularly for women, by introducing measures such as properly fitting PPE and women-only facilities on job sites, aiming to create a more welcoming and equitable work environment.
• He discussed Ontario’s “Working for Workers” reforms, which introduced significant labour rights improvements, such as banning non-compete clauses, enhancing rights for gig workers, and guaranteeing washroom access for truck drivers, reflecting a broader commitment to worker empowerment.

The Whole Story:

Ontario’s former Minister of Labour, Monte McNaughton, may have exited politics, but he is still advocating for the construction sector.

McNaughton delivered a keynote speech at Premier Danielle Smith’s third annual Summit on Fairness for Newcomers in Calgary, focusing on the importance of skilled trades and government efforts to support newcomers and workers across Canada.

Speaking at the summit, McNaughton emphasized the critical role tradespeople play in building the country, building it from coast to coast to coast. He praised Premier Smith’s leadership and highlighted the partnership between Alberta and Ontario, both of which have shared initiatives to bolster the trades and welcome skilled newcomers.

Reflecting on his time as Minister of Labour, McNaughton underscored the need to shift societal perceptions of skilled trades, which he described as “meaningful, well-paying, and exciting” careers. He pointed to Ontario’s success in increasing apprenticeship registrations by 24%, including a 30% rise in the number of women entering the trades.

McNaughton’s efforts in Ontario included the launch of the “Level Up” skilled trades career fairs and the creation of Skilled Trades Ontario, a new agency aimed at streamlining the path to becoming a tradesperson. These initiatives, he explained, were designed to address the long-standing challenges in attracting youth to the trades, starting as early as Grade One to get students excited about careers in fields like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.

He also focused on making the skilled trades more inclusive for women.

“For far too long, the skilled trades have been unwelcoming to many women,” McNaughton said, highlighting legislation that mandated properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) for women in construction, ending the days of “pink it and shrink it.” Ontario also introduced rules requiring private, enclosed washrooms on job sites, including at least one women-only facility.

McNaughton also touched on his work in supporting newcomers, particularly in skilled trades. He lauded Alberta’s and Ontario’s efforts to give provinces more control over immigration, allowing them to better meet local labour market needs.

“Provinces should have a greater say in the immigration system—both in selecting the skilled immigrants our provinces need and in terms of numbers,” he stated.

Turning to labour rights, McNaughton discussed his “Working for Workers” initiatives in Ontario, which included landmark labour reforms. These changes included guaranteeing washroom access for truck drivers, banning non-compete clauses, and providing new rights for gig workers.

He noted, “We passed legislation in Ontario—I’m very proud of our Working for Workers bills,” which he framed as critical steps to empower workers and support their rights.

In closing, McNaughton emphasized the shared vision between Alberta and Ontario in building a working-class future. He praised the leadership of Alberta’s Premier Smith and her government’s recent pro-worker initiatives, including updates to private sector pension plans for construction trades, ensuring security for 180,000 workers and pensioners across Canada.

“Our mission is to leave no one behind and help lift everyone up through meaningful employment, creating purpose-driven lives,” McNaughton concluded, expressing optimism for the future of Canada’s skilled workforce and the broader economy.

McNaughton announced his resignation from provincial politics on Sept. 22, 2023, to pursue a career in the private sector. McNaughton had served as an MPP for 12 years and held his cabinet position for over four years. 

Key Takeaways:

• The Ontario government is introducing the Building Highways Faster Act, which aims to accelerate highway construction for key projects like Highway 413, the Bradford Bypass, and the Garden City Skyway bridge.
• The proposed legislation will streamline utility relocations, speed up property acquisitions, and allow 24/7 construction on priority highway projects to tackle traffic congestion more effectively.
• With Ontario’s population set to grow by 2 million residents by 2031, these changes are designed to expand highway capacity and address gridlock, which costs the economy $11 billion annually in lost productivity.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government is introducing legislation that would, if passed, allow the province to build highways faster, getting drivers out of gridlock and where they need to go. The Building Highways Faster Act would designate priority highway projects to speed up construction, with Highway 413, the Bradford Bypass and the Garden City Skyway bridge all set to receive this designation.

“Every minute wasted in traffic is a minute that could be spent with friends, family, and the people who matter most,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Our government understands how frustrating it is to be stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, and the need to build highways and roads to help get people moving. That is why we’re moving forward with the common-sense changes, like 24/7 construction, proposed in this legislation.”

The act would streamline utility relocations, accelerate access to property and property acquisitions and introduce new penalties for obstructing access for field investigations or damaging equipment. The legislation would also allow regulation making authority to facilitate around-the-clock, 24/7 construction on priority highway projects.

“Ontario is experiencing unprecedented population growth, with an additional two million residents expected by 2031,” added Minister Sarkaria. “If we don’t accelerate an increase in capacity beyond our existing highway and rapid transit projects, all 400-series highways in the GTHA, including Highway 407, will be at or exceed capacity within the next decade.”

To further streamline the building process, the government is also proposing legislation that would create an accelerated environmental assessment process for Highway 413, allowing the province to proceed with early works while maintaining Ontario’s stringent oversight of environmental protections.

The government’s proposed changes are part of upcoming legislation that will kick off the fall sitting of the Ontario legislature on October 21, 2024, with a focus on tackling gridlock and getting drivers and commuters across Ontario out of traffic.

Toronto commuters face the longest travel times in North America, spending an average of 98 hours each year in rush-hour traffic, according to the Toronto Region Board of Trade. The board says Gridlock on Ontario highways and roads costs the economy $11 billion annually in lost productivity.

Key Takeaways:

• Vancouver will cut permitting times for multiplex housing applications by 50% starting in 2025, aiming to accelerate the development of “missing middle” housing.
• The new process combines the development and building permit stages, reducing redundancies and streamlining the approval process for smaller multiplexes.
• The City plans to expand this pathway to include more multiplex types, enhancing housing diversity in Vancouver.

The Whole Story:

Effective early 2025, the City of Vancouver says it will cut permitting times for certain multiplex applications by approximately 50% through a streamlined Development Building Permit application pathway. 

This initiative is a major milestone for the City’s Permitting Improvement Program. The goal is to closer to achieve the City Council-adopted 3-3-3-1 Permit Approval Framework and enable faster approval of much-needed housing. 

“As Vancouver grows and evolves, it’s crucial that our housing options meet the diverse needs of our community,” said Mayor Ken Sim. “The streamlined development building permit for multiplexes is a key example of how we’re cutting red tape and prioritizing the approval of more ‘missing middle’ housing, which bridges the gap between single-detached homes and large apartment buildings.”

Currently, multiplex projects are required to apply for a separate development permit followed by a building permit. The development building permit combines these two processes into one application. This eliminates redundancies and significantly reduces both staff review time and applicant revision requirements. Multiplex applications with up to four dwellings on a single site and no more than two units per building will qualify.

“This change will streamline the journey from planning to construction for multiplex developers,” says Corrie Okell, General Manager, Development, Buildings & Licensing. “It underscores our commitment to transparency, predictability, accuracy, consistency, and timeliness in the permitting process.”

Looking ahead, the City plans to expand the development building permit pathway to encompass more types of multiplex developments, further supporting the growth and diversity of Vancouver’s housing market.

From substantial government investments in critical minerals infrastructure to groundbreaking advancements in sustainable building technology, companies are actively pushing the boundaries of efficiency, environmental responsibility, and expansion. It has been a busy few weeks for the industry.

Notable deals include Giatec’s advancement in AI-powered concrete solutions, Englobe’s strategic acquisition to broaden its services, and Anthem Properties’ pioneering real estate IPO. These updates reflect a dynamic sector, driven by cutting-edge technologies, strategic partnerships, and ambitious infrastructure projects that promise to boost both the economy and sustainable development in Canada. Check out all the business moves below:

Canada has announced up to $60 million in conditional funding through the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) to support two significant infrastructure projects in British Columbia’s Golden Triangle and Yukon. One project involves the Galore Creek Mining Corporation’s plan to build a 43-kilometre access road to its copper mine in Tahltan Territory. The second project focuses on pre-feasibility activities for a 765-kilometre high-voltage transmission line network in Yukon.

Concrete technology company Giatec has secured $17.5 million from the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) to advance sensor technologies and AI-based software solutions aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the concrete industry. This funding will enhance the Giatec SmartMix digital platform, which optimizes concrete mixes for cost efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. Giatec plans to implement these technologies in the world’s first smart ready-mix concrete plant, featuring automated production equipped with sensors and AI solutions.

Engineering and environmental services firm Englobe Corporation has announced the acquisition of Goodkey, Weedmark & Associates Ltd. (GWAL), an Ottawa-based, employee-owned consulting firm specializing in mechanical and electrical engineering. Following the successful close of this transaction, all 100 GWAL employees and leaders will join the Englobe family.

This transaction represents a major milestone in our company’s history, as it will help us expand our reach from local to national. Our team is delighted to join this highly reputed Canadian firm whose client approach and genuine caring for its people, communities and clients closely reflect our own values.

Frank Bann, P.Eng., Managing Principal at GWAL

CAI Capital Partners has announced the successful closing of CAI Capital Partners VII, L.P. and CAI Capital Partners VII (Sponsor), L.P. (collectively known as CAI Fund VII) at $153 million, surpassing its target of $150 million and previous fund size of $125 million. The fundraising, which began with its first close in June 2023 and concluded in September 2024, attracted over 90 investors, including institutional investors, financial institutions, family offices, and individuals.

We are grateful for the tremendous support we received from our existing limited partners as well as from new investors. Raising capital during this cycle has been challenging, but it is in precisely this type of environment that great funds are built. We are very proud to have exceeded our target under difficult market conditions.

Tracey McVicar, Partner, CAI Capital Partners

Vancouver-based Anthem Properties Group Ltd. is set to launch an initial public offering (IPO) aimed at raising up to $82 million for its Citizen project, a 66-storey mixed-use development in Burnaby’s Metrotown. This offering will complement the $269 million already secured from pre-sales for the project, making it the first real estate IPO of its kind in Canada.

31 construction-related businesses made this year’s list of Fastest Growing Companies in Canada, organized by the Globe & Mail.

Egis has announced a strategic partnership with SvN, a Toronto-based multidisciplinary design firm, to enhance its global Architecture Line, which now includes bespoke brands that provide a wide range of architectural services. This collaboration aims to address the climate emergency by promoting sustainable urban design, complementing the existing offerings of award-winning practices like WW+P, 10 Design, Omrania, and U+A.

Sam The Concrete Man, the largest residential concrete company in North America, recently announced they have expanded their operations into Canada. With the opening of franchises in Vancouver and Toronto, Sam The Concrete Man continues its steady growth. 

Spectra Precision has announced its acquisition of Unicontrol, a machine control technology company that has been active in 27 countries since its founding in 2018. The deal brings Unicontrol into Spectra Precision’s portfolio, alongside Seco and Loadrite, under parent company Precisional LLC. The acquisition aims to enhance construction efficiency through a broader range of machine control solutions.

The Canadian Equipment Dealers Association (CEDA) has approved a merger with the Associated Equipment Distributors (AED), set to be finalized by Nov. 1. CEDA President Beverly J. Leavitt, who will become AED’s Vice President, emphasized that AED’s robust dealer education and industry advocacy were key factors in the decision. The merger will grant CEDA’s 160 members access to AED’s extensive resources, including educational programs, industry reports, and advocacy efforts, while maintaining provincial representation in Ontario. Both organizations see the merger as a strategic alignment to strengthen dealer support across Canada.

Monster Industries and First Nations partner, Kitsumkalum, collectively the Monster Kitsumkalum JV (MKJV) has been awarded a 3-year Brownfield Mechanical Contract with LNG Canada. Working alongside the LNG Canada Team, Members of the MKJV will provide safety oversight, quality control, subcontractor coordination, project management and a variety of skilled mechanical tradespeople to support scopes of work involving mechanical fabrication, mechanical installations, support for emergency repairs and general labour as and when requested.

Slate Asset Management, a global alternative investment platform targeting real assets, announced the firm is accelerating its focus on essential real estate. Slate will continue to invest globally across asset classes and the risk spectrum in real estate that supports the non-discretionary needs of day-to-day life, including grocery, residential, industrial and logistics, and healthcare.

Our decision to sharpen Slate’s focus on the theme of essential real estate will allow us to redeploy capital, expertise, and resources to asset classes within our portfolio that we believe are highly defensive and generate the best risk adjusted returns for our investors

Brady Welch, Co-Founding Partner of Slate

AngloAmerican has sold its Peace River Coal operation in northeast B.C. to Conuma Resources, marking a notable shift in Canada’s coal industry. The mine, which has been inactive since 2014 due to declining coal prices, was AngloAmerican’s only coal asset in Canada. The sale also reflects a commitment to sustainability, as AngloAmerican partnered with Conuma and First Nations to contribute to the Caribou Recovery Project, relinquishing part of the mine to protect wildlife habitat. While the sale price and production timeline remain undisclosed, the deal is expected to boost the local economy and job creation.

Grosvenor is moving forward with Phase 1 of its Brentwood Block master-planned project in Vancouver, partnering in a joint venture with an unnamed Canadian pension fund and Westerkirk Capital Inc. This joint venture completes the capital needed for the $1.5-billion development, which will include 1,730 housing units, a multi-storey community centre, and 200,000 square feet of commercial space.

PCL Construction has signed a multi-year deal with safety intelligence software company HammerTech to help make job sites safer and boost efficiencies across global operations. Built on the premise that efficient and effective workflows are key to robust safety programs, HammerTech’s safety intelligence platform will provide PCL with agility and adaptability to changing processes, enhanced reporting and data management, and greater efficiencies when collecting and analyzing safety documentation.

EnviCore, a Calgary-based sustainable materials technology company, announced the successful closing of its seed funding round, raising $4.2 million. The round was led by prominent industry investors, including CSN Inova Ventures (the corporate venture capital arm of Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional, Brazil’s largest fully integrated steel producer), Heidelberg Materials, Techstars, Hillside Ventures, and Angel Investor Mark and Faye McGregor.

Premier Construction Software, a global leader in financial cloud ERP solutions for the construction industry, announced a strategic partnership with Lumber, a modern payroll and workforce management platform.

In today’s fast-moving construction landscape, successful project delivery relies on accurate, real-time data flow and seamless software integration. Partnering with Lumber allows us to build a powerful, well-architected API that drives both efficiency and scalability, ensuring that clients are empowered to make timely, informed decisions across their operations.

Karoline Lapko, CEO of Premier Construction Software

RSG International has announced a new partnership with Mark’s Commercial aimed at providing inclusive personal protective equipment (PPE) to all field employees across its businesses. As part of this initiative, RSG International has been trialling women’s shirts in the Health and Safety department at Powell Contracting, which has achieved accreditation under ISO 45001:2018, the global standard for occupational health and safety.

CDPQ, a global investment group, and Nuveen Green Capital (NGC), a leader in sustainable commercial real estate financing solutions, announced today the launch of a USD 600-million (CAD 830-million) integrated sustainable commercial real estate financing program. This offering combines Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing and senior bridge and construction financing aimed at the U.S. commercial real estate (CRE) market.

Canada-based AtkinsRéalis Group Inc. is set to work with the UK’s largest listed water company to deliver a major environmental program. United Utilities has appointed three design and development partners (DDP) in a contract worth a potential £90 million for each DDP over 11 years. AtkinsRéalis’ local delivery teams will create detailed designs for schemes across United Utilities’ water and wastewater sites, as well as bio resource and rainwater management projects.

Lafarge Canada and Geocycle Canada, part of Holcim Group, along with Natural Resources Canada, have opened Geocycle’s first low-carbon fuel plant at Lafarge’s Brookfield Cement Plant in Nova Scotia. The $10-million facility, supported by $3.53 million from Canada’s Energy Innovation Program, will divert 14,000 tonnes of waste annually from landfills to produce low-carbon fuel, reducing the plant’s carbon emissions by over 12,000 tonnes per year.

Canada’s latest Labour Force Survey for September reports an overall employment increase of 47,000 (+0.2%). Employment increased in sectors such as information, culture, and recreation (+22,000; +2.6%) and wholesale and retail trade (+22,000; +0.8%), but there was no specific mention of growth in construction or industrial jobs.

Employment in professional, scientific, and technical services also grew by 21,000 (+1.1%) in September, offsetting a prior decline in August.

Employment gains were strongest in Ontario (+43,000; +0.5%) and Quebec (+22,000; +0.5%), regions. Employment did decline in British Columbia (-18,000; -0.6%) and New Brunswick (-4,100; -1.0%).

Wage Growth and Full-Time Employment Up

Average hourly wages for all employees rose 4.6% year-over-year to $35.59 in September, a positive indicator for workers. Full-time employment saw a robust increase of 112,000 jobs (+0.7%), the largest gain since May 2022. However, part-time work fell by 65,000 (-1.7%).

Broader Labour Market Trends

The unemployment rate edged down to 6.5% in September, driven by lower unemployment among youth, which fell 1.0 percentage points to 13.5%. Despite the slight decline, the overall youth unemployment rate was still up 2.8 percentage points compared to September 2023.

Private sector employment continued to rise, increasing by 61,000 (+0.5%), while public sector employment fell by 24,000 (-0.5%).

Key Takeaways:

• Toronto’s new 10-year economic plan, Sidewalks to Skylines focuses on improving transit, enhancing public safety, and increasing affordable housing, with a goal of building 285,000 new homes by 2031, particularly near transit hubs to create sustainable communities.
• The plan emphasizes revitalizing Toronto’s main streets by supporting small businesses through initiatives like the Main Street Resiliency Fund. Additionally, it seeks to create quality jobs by investing in high-growth sectors such as technology, life sciences, and creative industries to bolster the city’s global competitiveness.
• Recognizing the need for cooperation, the plan stresses the importance of collaboration between the City, provincial and federal governments, the private sector, and community leaders to achieve its goals. This includes securing long-term funding agreements to address infrastructure needs and economic development while fostering an inclusive, equitable economy.

The Whole Story:

Toronto is setting its sights on a future defined by inclusivity and economic growth with Mayor Olivia Chow’s newly unveiled Sidewalks to Skylines: An Action Plan for Toronto’s Economy. The 10-year roadmap aims to tackle some of the city’s biggest challenges: traffic congestion, housing affordability, and growing inequality.

The plan’s vision is this: Toronto must strengthen its economic foundation and leverage its assets to remain competitive globally.

“Toronto is now at a crossroads,” the report states. “Prosperity and wealth creation have not been equitably distributed, with significant disparities emerging.”

The report calls for action to address these challenges, emphasizing the need to “Get the Basics Right” by focusing on housing affordability, public safety, and efficient transit. According to the plan, failure to act now could lead to “losing our global position as the best place to live and invest.”

Tackling Congestion and Improving Transit

One of the most pressing issues the plan seeks to address is traffic congestion, which has long plagued Toronto. The Congestion Management Plan outlined in the action plan includes improving enforcement of bylaws that slow traffic, using new technologies, and creating strategic traffic mitigation measures.

According to the report, “we must tackle congestion head-on,” highlighting how transportation inefficiencies are draining both time and productivity in the city.

Housing Affordability Front and Centre

With Toronto’s housing market increasingly out of reach for many residents, the action plan focuses heavily on increasing the supply of affordable homes. The City aims to build 285,000 new homes by 2031, prioritizing affordable housing units near major transit hubs to create “complete communities.”

The report acknowledges that housing costs have become a severe issue, threatening Toronto’s ability to retain and attract talent.

“The average cost of a home in Toronto in 2023 was more than $1.1 million,” the report notes, underscoring the urgency of addressing this crisis. The city will work with provincial and federal governments to ensure housing developments are prioritized, while streamlining approval processes to get homes built faster.

Strong Main Streets and Quality Jobs

The action plan also stresses the importance of revitalizing Toronto’s main streets, which are crucial to the city’s economic vitality.

“Toronto’s unique small business neighbourhoods are vital anchors for vibrant, prosperous communities city-wide,” the report says. To support local businesses, the City will introduce a Main Street Resiliency Fund to help mitigate the impacts of rising rents and construction disruptions.

Additionally, the plan sets its sights on creating quality jobs and fostering a more inclusive economy. Investing in high-growth sectors like technology, life sciences, and creative industries is a priority, with the goal of making Toronto a top global competitor. “Investing in an inclusive economy that adds good jobs and leverages the diverse talent… of people who live here” is central to the strategy.

Collaboration with All Levels of Government

The plan makes it clear that the City cannot succeed alone. “This Action Plan is the City’s, but the City cannot do it alone,” the report states. Chow and her administration are calling on the provincial and federal governments, as well as the private sector and community leaders, to collaborate on efforts to make Toronto’s vision a reality. A long-term funding agreement with these partners will be crucial for addressing infrastructure needs, housing shortages, and economic development.

Path to Global Competitiveness

Ultimately, the goal of Sidewalks to Skylines is to make Toronto a more prosperous, inclusive city that can compete globally.

“It is our ultimate aspirational goal that, taking all these actions together, Toronto will be on a path to double its GDP in 25 years,” the report says.

With annual progress reports planned, Toronto’s leadership is set to provide regular updates on key outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

• The Ontario government is investing up to $1.25 million in the construction of a new five-bed hospice on Six Nations of the Grand River, the first Indigenous-led, operated, and on-territory hospice in Canada. This facility will provide culturally appropriate end-of-life care for Indigenous people.
• The hospice will incorporate Haudenosaunee teachings and traditional practices to offer physical, emotional, and spiritual support for patients. It will include culturally reflective spaces, sacred areas for ceremonies, traditional medicines, and healing practices to honor Indigenous cultural identity during end-of-life care.
• The hospice will create a supportive environment for families, allowing them to gather, share meals, and process grief together. It will offer services such as nursing, personal support, symptom management, and culturally relevant bereavement workshops, ensuring that Indigenous traditions and needs are fully respected.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government is investing up to $1.25 million to support the construction of Six Nations of the Grand River’s new five-bed hospice which will help Indigenous people and their loved ones connect to comfortable, culturally appropriate and dignified end-of-life care, close to home.

“Our government is ensuring people and their families have access to the care they need in their community, close to their loved ones,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Our investment to expand access to end-of-life care that recognizes the importance of Indigenous-led traditional healing on Six Nations of the Grand River is another step our government is taking to deliver compassionate and specialized care for patients and their loved ones.”

The new hospice – currently named Six Nations of the Grand River Community Hospice – will be constructed on Six Nations of the Grand River and will be the first Indigenous-led, operated and on-territory hospice in Canada. Its community-led services will incorporate traditional Haudenosaunee teachings to provide physical, emotional and spiritual support that will help Indigenous community members connect to equitable quality care that recognizes and respects their cultural identity, values and beliefs as they make their journey into the spirit world.

“Having our own hospice will be amazing for our members to be taken care of our way,” said Chief Sherri-Lyn Hill of Six Nations of the Grand River. “Our members will be able to live out their lives with loved ones and family surrounding them.”

The hospice will provide families the ability to gather with generations of loved ones and bond over food to process grief, loss, and transition. It will also connect people to traditional medicines and practices, specific to each individual’s end-of-life journey. This can include supports to help with nausea, pain, discomfort, and support relaxation. The hospice staff will all be from First Nations communities – where this is not possible, the hospice will ensure non-First Nations staff receive cultural sensitivity training on end-of-life traditions and care for Indigenous clients and families.

The hospice will include:

• Decor that is reflective of cultural traditions, including colours and artwork
• Sacred spaces for ceremonies
• A garden space reflective of traditional medicines and the offerings of nature, providing opportunities to watch the stars, moon, and sun
• Large spaces to support multiple families to be together during end of life, share meals and comfort one another
• Culturally-relevant services such as traditional healers, elders and knowledge keepers
• Hospice care including end-of-life nursing and personal support
• Respite and symptom management
• Bereavement workshops and counselling tailored to meet the specific requirements of the community.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario has started construction on the York BESS, a facility that will store 120 MW of electricity, enough to power 120,000 homes.
• The Ontario government recently secured 3,000 MW of new battery energy storage capacity, the largest procurement in Canadian history, positioning the province to have the largest battery storage fleet in the nation and the third-largest in North America.
• In addition to battery storage, Ontario is advancing nuclear, hydroelectric, and transmission infrastructure projects to meet the growing demand for power.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government has broken ground on a new battery energy storage project in York Region.

Once completed, the new York Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will store and release 120 MW of electricity, enough to power 120,000 homes.

“Here in York Region and across the province, energy demand is rising. That is why our government is moving forward with an ambitious plan to generate and store more affordable, reliable and clean power for our families, farms, and businesses,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “Thanks to projects like this one, Ontario is on track to have the largest battery storage fleet in the nation and the third largest in North America, which will result in a more efficient grid and help keep energy costs down.”

In May 2024 the Ontario government concluded the largest battery storage procurement in Canadian history, which secured about 3,000 MW of new battery energy storage, enough to power three million homes. Capital Power was selected during the government’s first procurement framework to build two battery storage projects – including the York BESS – representing a total of 170 MW of energy storage. Capital Power anticipates that the York BESS will reach commercial operation by August 2025.

“Building affordable, clean, and reliable electric generation for our growing communities in Northern York Region and South Simcoe is essential to supporting local families and businesses,” said Caroline Mulroney, Member of Provincial Parliament for York-Simcoe. “By bringing the York Battery Energy Storage System to our region, we will ensure our electricity system remains one of the cleanest electricity systems in the world.”

The York BESS is expected to help meet rising demand for power in the Greater Toronto Area and across the province. Officials also intend for it to make the province’s grid more efficient by drawing and storing electricity off-peak when power demand is low and returning the power to the system at times of higher electricity demand.

“Capital Power proudly provides reliable electricity to power homes and businesses across Ontario. With our York Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), we’re actively deploying balanced power solutions that will enhance grid reliability and support Ontario’s thriving economy. Flexible solutions like natural gas and battery energy storage are critical to supporting the urgent need for reliable power across the province,” said Avik Dey, President and CEO of Capital Power. “We’re also proud to be partnering with Ontario Power Generation on assessing the feasibility of deploying small modular reactors in Alberta. Ontario is becoming a clean energy superpower and we’re excited to be a part of that story.”

Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) now forecasts that the province’s electricity demand alone will increase by 75% by 2050. Building energy storage facilities is just one part of the government’s plan to meet that growing energy demand and reduce emissions by expanding Ontario’s energy grid. Other efforts include:

• Nuclear Energy – Advancing nuclear power through the largest pre-development work at Bruce Power in 30 years, four small modular reactors at Darlington and supporting Ontario Power Generation’s plan for refurbishing the Pickering Nuclear Generation Station.
• Hydroelectric Energy – Investing in existing hydroelectric stations, including a $1 billion refurbishment program that the Sir Adam Beck Generating Station in Niagara Falls.
• New Transmission Infrastructure – Designating and prioritizing transmission lines in Southwestern, Northeastern and Eastern Ontario that will power job creators, including EV and EV battery manufacturing and clean steel production.
• Keeping Costs Down – Launching new energy efficiency programs on January 1, 2025, and building on the government’s $342 million expansion of existing energy efficiency programs.
• Additional Competitive Procurements – Launching the largest competitive procurement of clean energy resources in the province’s history in addition to successfully re-contracting existing capacity resources at about a 30% discount.

Key Takeaways:

• The Movember Construction Challenge focuses on raising awareness about men’s mental health and other medical issues, ( particularly prostate and testicular cancer).
• The initiative highlights progress in addressing mental health in construction, breaking down the “tough guy” mentality and encouraging open discussions.
• This year’s industry program is bigger and better than ever. Companies across the construction sector are invited to participate in a 30-day challenge to raise funds and awareness. The winning team will earn a special trophy.

The Whole Story:

The construction sector is once again uniting for the Movember Construction Challenge, a month-long initiative to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, testicular cancer and other issues facing men.

But this year it is bigger and better than ever. Companies from across the sector—ranging from suppliers and trades to builders of highways and skyscrapers—will compete for fundraising glory while championing critical health issues that impact men in construction. The victorious team won’t only earn bragging rights. They will get to take home the Construction Challenge Trophy.

Addressing Critical Health Issues

The construction industry faces unique challenges when it comes to mental health. Workers often endure long hours, physically demanding tasks, and high-pressure environments. The industry’s prevailing “tough guy” mentality further complicates conversations about mental well-being.

The statistics are alarming: men account for 75% of all suicides in Canada, and construction workers are five times more likely to die by suicide than from job-related injuries. Additionally, 83% of workers report experiencing moderate to severe mental health issues. The Movember Construction Challenge seeks to address these pressing issues and foster a safer, more supportive environment for workers.

“Bringing Movember into the workplace has had a huge impact on our team,” said Rob Reid from Ledcor. “We’ve always emphasized physical safety, but we’ve evolved to consider mental health as part of that equation.”

Progress is being made. Reid noted that after two of his grandfathers died from prostate cancer, early detection saved his father’s life. And Movember discussions at Ledcor prompted an employee to get checked. He was diagnosed, treated and has since returned to work.

“This reminded me that every one of the conversations we have about our health could save someone’s life,” said Reid.

Kevin Hatch from Twin Lions Contracting added, “Mental health often gets overlooked in construction. We believe it’s crucial to create a healthy working environment where everyone feels safe to speak up and seek help when needed.”

A Challenge with Purpose

The Movember Construction Challenge invites companies to participate in 30 days of fundraising and awareness-building activities focused on men’s health. Teams will compete through fun events and personal challenges, with the top fundraising team winning the coveted Construction Challenge Trophy, a symbol of leadership in men’s health advocacy.

“By getting involved in the Construction Challenge, construction professionals are building more than just projects; they’re building communities where health and well-being are prioritized,” said Mitch Hermansen, director of development at Movember.

How to Get Involved

Companies are encouraged to register at movember.com and join the challenge by:

– Creating a company team.

– Joining the Construction Challenge or contacting Tyler Watkins at tyler.watkins@movember.com.

– Recruiting team members from across sites and locations, including Mo Sisters.

– Planning events such as a shave-down or a wrap-up party.

– Starting conversations about men’s health and encouraging open dialogue.

Participants can contribute to Movember in various ways, from growing a moustache to taking part in the Move Challenge, which involves running or walking 60 km to honour the 60 men lost to suicide every hour. Others can host events or create unique challenges to raise funds and awareness for men’s health.

“Movember is a fun, engaging campaign that resonates with this industry and tackles issues that directly impact its workforce,” said Hermansen. “The challenge allows us to work alongside leaders in the construction industry to drive meaningful change in workplaces and communities.”

Making a difference

Movember’s impact is significant, with over 50,000 Canadians participating in 2023, raising $20 million for men’s health. Since 2013, the organization has invested over $110 million into prostate cancer research and continues to fund mental health programs such as Movember Conversations, an online tool to support people in helping their peers with mental health issues. The Canadian construction industry is doing its part. Last year, the Construction Challenge raised $411,758. Ledcor was the top team, raising more than $109,000.

“We know that working in construction comes with stress factors that can have hidden psychological impacts,” said Edward Pyle, Vice President of the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association. “Mental health concerns are as critical as physical hazards in our industry. We encourage the construction community to use this Movember challenge as an opportunity to have conversations with their teams and share resources to ensure everyone gets the support they need.”

Learn more and get involved here.

Key Takeaways:

• The federal government is set to launch the Housing Design Catalogue in December 2024, featuring up to 50 standardized designs, including row housing and accessory dwelling units.
• The project has received $11.6 million in funding from Budget 2024 and involves collaboration with architects like MGA | Michael Green Architecture and LGA Architectural Partners Ltd., alongside regional experts.
• The Housing Design Catalogue aligns with the government’s broader strategy to address the housing crisis by integrating various housing programs and supporting an Industrial Strategy for Homebuilding. This approach aims to improve construction efficiency, reduce costs, and provide detailed, permit-ready design packages by early 2025.

The Whole Story:

Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, unveiled plans for the Housing Design Catalogue, a key initiative aimed at expediting the construction of new housing across Canada. The first iteration of the catalogue, set to launch this December, will feature up to 50 standardized conceptual designs, including row housing, fourplexes, sixplexes, and accessory dwelling units, intended to streamline the design, approvals, and construction processes.

“We need to build more homes, faster to end Canada’s housing crisis and ensure that everyone has a safe and affordable place to call their own,” said Minister Fraser. “The Housing Design Catalogue will help get us there by expediting approval processes and building times, and reducing the cost of building.”

The design contracts were awarded to MGA | Michael Green Architecture, which will cover British Columbia, and LGA Architectural Partners Ltd., which will collaborate with five regional teams to develop designs for Alberta, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic, and the North. In addition, an open submission process has been launched, inviting industry members to contribute existing prefabricated housing designs, with submissions due by November 8, 2024.

The government is also preparing to launch a competition in November for innovative mid-rise building designs, which will inform future iterations of the catalogue. The initiative aligns with Budget 2024, which allocated $11.6 million for the development of the catalogue, underscoring the federal commitment to tackling the housing crisis through collaboration with provinces and municipalities.

With the aim of integrating other housing programs, the Housing Design Catalogue is expected to support an Industrial Strategy for Homebuilding, expediting construction methods while reducing costs. Detailed construction packages, compliant with building code requirements, will be made available in early 2025, further facilitating the development of new homes.

The Housing Design Catalogue is a recent initiative by the Canadian federal government, announced in late 2023 as part of efforts to address the country’s housing crisis. This project draws inspiration from a post-World War II program run by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) between the late 1940s and 1970s, which provided standardized house designs to speed up construction.

The modern iteration, supported by Budget 2024 with $11.6 million in funding, aims to provide pre-approved, standardized housing designs that can be used across the country to accelerate construction and reduce costs. The government began targeted consultations with industry professionals, technical experts, homebuilders, non-profit housing providers, and various levels of government in January 2024 to inform the catalogue’s development.

In July and August 2024, the federal government invited multidisciplinary design teams to submit proposals for the first iteration of the catalogue, focusing on low-rise designs. The initiative is expected to feature a variety of housing types, including accessory dwelling units, multiplexes, and small to medium-sized buildings, with potential expansion to higher-density constructions and innovative building methods like modular and prefabricated homes.