Category: Economy

Key Takeaways:

• The MOU includes plans for three significant hydroelectric initiatives: the 2,250 MW Gull Island facility, a new 1,100 MW expansion near Churchill Falls, and a 550 MW capacity increase at the existing facility.
• The agreement ensures $1 billion annually for Newfoundland and Labrador starting in 2025 through dividends, water rentals, and energy sales.
• Construction plans emphasize respect for existing agreements with Indigenous communities and require meaningful consultation throughout the project lifecycle.

The Whole Story:

Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec have signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand hydroelectric generation in Labrador, setting the stage for economic and energy benefits across both provinces. The agreement includes new contracts for the Churchill Falls facility and plans for additional projects that will deliver renewable energy for generations.

“Today represents a significant milestone for every Newfoundlander and Labradorian,” said Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. “Over the life of the agreement, we will generate dividends to the province of more than $200 billion by 2075, have access to nearly four times the electricity we do today to support industrial growth in Labrador, and realize the development of Gull Island without the financial and construction risks.”

Quebec Premier François Legault praised the MOU as a “win-win” agreement.

“This agreement will generate savings of over $200 billion over 50 years,” he said. “It allows us to secure a major energy block for several generations while ensuring a price far lower than the alternatives. It will help us keep electricity rates as low as possible for Quebecers.”

Agreement Highlights

The MOU outlines two primary components:

1. New Contracts for Existing Churchill Falls Generation: Hydro-Québec will replace the current contract with payments to Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation (CF(L)Co) totaling $33.8 billion in net present value from 2025 to 2075. Energy prices will rise over time, linked to market indices.
2. New Generation Projects in Labrador: The agreement includes three major initiatives:
   • Gull Island Facility: A 2,250 MW hydroelectric project on the Churchill River.
   • Churchill Falls Expansion: A new 1,100 MW facility near the existing site.
   • Capacity Increase at Churchill Falls: Adding 550 MW to the current facility.

Hydro-Québec will also pay Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro $3.5 billion as an option payment for co-developing these projects. Combined revenues, including dividends and water rentals, are expected to bring $1 billion annually to Newfoundland and Labrador starting in 2025.

Renewable Energy for the Future

“This memorandum secures access for Quebec to a large quantity of renewable energy for 50 years at the lowest price possible,” said Michael Sabia, CEO of Hydro-Québec.

Energy costs from existing Churchill Falls generation will average 6 cents/kWh, with new developments priced at approximately 11 cents/kWh. The collaboration aims to support decarbonization while driving economic growth in both provinces.

Indigenous Engagement

The agreement emphasizes respect for existing agreements with Indigenous communities and commits to meaningful consultation throughout project development. Both provinces aim to ensure transparency and collaboration at every stage.

Path Forward

The MOU sets the foundation for detailed planning and project analyses, with construction expected to begin following permitting approvals. The existing Churchill Falls contract remains in force until definitive agreements are finalized.

“This agreement allows us to secure a major energy block for several generations,” said Premier Legault, underscoring the historic nature of the partnership.

Key Takeaways:

• The average tax burden on a newly constructed home in Ontario has risen to 36% of the purchase price, up from 31% just three years ago, driven largely by increased development charges. For an average new home costing $1,070,000, this translates to a tax burden of nearly $381,000, a 16% increase since 2021.
• The escalating tax burden significantly affects housing affordability, disproportionately impacting first-time buyers and lower-income households. For homes priced at $450,000—aligned with median household incomes—the tax burden rises sharply to 45.2%. RESCON says these high costs deter developers from investing in new projects, exacerbating Ontario’s housing crisis.
• RESCON says the data underscores the need for federal and provincial governments to provide more funding for municipal infrastructure to reduce reliance on development charges.

The Whole Story:

The average tax burden on a newly constructed home in Ontario has jumped to almost 36% of the purchase price, up from 31% just three years ago, a report commissioned by the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) has revealed.

On the average price of a new home in Ontario, which is about $1,070,000, that means consumers are now paying nearly $381,000 in income taxes, corporate, sales and transfer taxes, and development charges and fees. The new number is a 16% increase over 2021 and highlights a troubling trend.

“These taxes are out of control and pushing the cost of new housing beyond the reach of most working families,” says RESCON president Richard Lyall. “The tax burden is significantly raising the price tag of a new home and directly contributing to the housing crisis we are facing by affecting the ability of developers to invest in new housing projects. This escalation presents substantial challenges to housing affordability and economic stability.

“The situation simply can not be allowed to continue. The huge increases have occurred over the last decade in large part because municipalities have hiked their development charges to pay for municipal infrastructure. The findings of this research indicate a critical need for the federal and provincial governments to get more involved in funding public infrastructure at local levels to support growth and ease the tax burden on housing in Ontario.”

The report, called Increasing Tax Burden on New Ontario Homes: 2024, was done by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis. Research revealed that the tax and fee burden on new homes continues to be more than twice that of the rest of the economy and governments now derive nearly four times more revenue from the sale of a new home than builders, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the residential construction sector.

According to the research, the tax and fee burden is significantly higher because of recent surges in development charges and the escalation presents considerable challenges for market stability. Of the total tax and fee burden on new housing, 70% consists of direct fees on the home, such as development charges and other fees, while the remaining 30% arises from indirect taxes paid during the development process, including income and corporate taxes paid during the ordinary course of a residential construction business.

Across the province, the tax burden varies by dwelling type and municipality. Rates in some jurisdictions are higher than the provincial average. In the GTA, excluding Toronto, the average tax and fee burden on a new home is 35.9%, a large apartment is 37%, and a small apartment is 36.9%. In Toronto, the average tax and fee burden on a new home is 35.1%, a large apartment is 34.2%, and a small apartment is 35.3%.

The system disproportionately affects first-time buyers and lower-income households. For homes priced at $450,000, an amount which aligns with what many households could afford based on median pre-tax household incomes, the average tax burden rises sharply to 45.2%. 

The report calls for immediate reform of the taxation and fee structures affecting new housing and notes there is a critical need for the federal and provincial governments to take a more active role in funding municipal infrastructure.

“Much of our economic success depends on a robust housing supply so it is critical that we address the tax burden,” says Lyall. “Municipalities lack the revenue streams to fund the infrastructure necessary for new housing and end up loading the cost onto new homeowners via development charges. This must change if we are to incentivize more homebuilding.”

Key Takeaways:

• The City of Vaughan has approved massive cuts to its development charges for residential developments, which historically were among the highest in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
• Overall reductions range from 88% to 92% across various residential types, translating into substantial cost savings for developers and potentially for homebuyers.
• Mayor Steven Del Duca emphasized that high development charges were an unfair tax burden on homebuyers, particularly affecting young families wanting to live near where they grew up.

The Whole Story:

The City of Vaughan has approved massive development charge reductions, which historically have been among the highest in the Greater Toronto Area. 

From 2009 to 2021, the city’s development charge rates increased by 229%, and, since 2018, rates have increased another 66%. 

For example, prior to the changes, the city’s published development charge rate for low-rise residential was $94,466. The new City development charge rate applicable to low-rise residential will now be $50,193.

This step, which comes following a Member’s Resolution from Mayor Steven Del Duca to find solutions to this housing crisis, positions the city to address affordability challenges and to make life easier, particularly for young families.

What is changing

The council-approved staff report calls for the following: 

• That staff revise the development charge rates on all residential development applications to the rates in effect on Sept. 21, 2018, until Nov. 19, 2029, through the use of section 27 agreements.
• That staff lower development charge rates on low-rise residential developments through the use of section 27 agreements.
• That staff initiate a new development charge background study and Development Charge By-law.
• That Council approve a new Development Charges Rate Reduction and Deferral for Residential Development Policy.
• That staff stop charging development charge interest on residential developments.

“Development charges have become an unfair tax burden on homebuyers,” said Mayor Steven Del Duca. “Too many of our residents, in particular young families in our community, have seen their dream of buying a home close to where they grew up, disappear completely as housing prices have spiraled out of control.  We have a housing affordability crisis and it’s time for us to get real about the solutions needed to solve it. Today’s decision by Vaughan Council to dramatically reduce our development charges for the foreseeable future is a strong step in the right direction. I urge other municipalities to follow our lead and do the right thing.”

How big are the cuts

These adjustments apply to various types of residential developments, including high rise, low-rise and mixed-use buildings. According to the City of Vaughan, the reductions, which range from 88% to 92%, translate into substantial cost savings: $44,273 for single-detached and semi-detached homes, $36,318 for multiples, and $28,092 and $20,243 for large and small apartment units, respectively.

The policy also suspends development charge interest on residential developments. This announcement from Vaughan is one of the most comprehensive and leading measures taken to address the cost to build and development charges. 

According to Building Industry Land Development Association (BILD), in the GTA, fees, taxes and charges from all levels of government account for almost 25 per cent of the cost of a new home for the new homebuyer.

Based on BILD’s 2024 Municipal Benchmarking Study, Vaughan’s municipally added fees and development charges on new homes had been the highest in the GTA. These new DC rate reductions by the City of Vaughan, effective as of November 19, 2024, will lower the city’s DC rate to well below comparable towns and cities in the region.

“BILD recognizes and commends Mayor Del Duca and the City of Vaughan for taking bold action to address housing supply and the cost to build by lowering development charges,” said Dave Wilkes, President and CEO of BILD. “This will enhance the financial viability of future projects, unlocking potential investment and stimulating supply.”

Canada’s construction and industrial sectors are buzzing with significant business moves and milestones. From hcma’s expansion into Calgary and SiteTechnology’s strategic acquisition of Quicktech to Corfix’s successful Series A funding and Carbon Upcycling Technologies’ breakthrough in low-carbon cement, the industry is witnessing transformative growth and innovation. Major developments also include the Calgary Construction Association’s 80th anniversary celebration, Candu Energy’s international reactor project, and the Government of Canada’s ownership restoration of the historic Québec Bridge. These updates highlight the dynamic evolution of Canada’s construction landscape and its growing impact both domestically and abroad. Check out all the biggest business moves from the past few weeks below:

Architecture firm hcma has landed in Calgary. The company’s new Alberta office is being led by Darin Harding, Associate Principal at hcma. The firm noted that its Edmonton office has grown steadily since 2020 with Associate Principal Michael Rivest at the helm. Officials noted that with major southern Alberta projects now on the go, it only made sense to establish a permanent base in Calgary and further cement their presence in Alberta.

SiteTechnology has completed the acquisition of Quicktech, a Managed IT Services provider with a 20-year track record of serving businesses across Canada. This brings SiteTech’s headcount to nearly 40 technology professionals. SiteTech stated that the acquisition is a strategic move that dramatically expands its ability to support mid-market, growth-oriented businesses.

Calgary is a place committed to advancing accessible and inclusive design, exploring pathways toward green building, and maximizing positive social impact. We’ve experienced it firsthand, as both residents and visitors. We’re excited to be part of this creative force, to nurture relationships, and discover new opportunities to spark lasting change in Alberta’s Blue-Sky City.

Darin Harding, Associate Principal, hcma

Eeffective November 1, 2024, Alta West Capital will begin its strategic partnership with TriWest Capital Partners (TWCP), marking a pivotal moment in the company’s tenure. AWC’s growth in recent years—driven by rigorous underwriting, competitive rates, and a dedicated team—has drawn the attention of TWCP, one of Canada’s leading private equity firms. This partnership will strengthen our foundation, enhance scalability, and expand our ability to serve stakeholders.

Aecon Group Inc. has announced its acquisition of United Engineers & Constructors Inc., a U.S.-based nuclear and conventional power contractor, for US$33 million, payable in cash. Founded in 1905, United specializes in nuclear power plant life extensions, small modular reactor projects, and recurring work under Master Service Agreements.

Construction and infrastructure company Acres Enterprises has entered into an MOU with the Sugar Cane Development Corporation, the economic arm of the Williams Lake First Nation.

The Calgary Construction Association celebrated its 80th anniversery with a special gala. The group noted that from modest beginnings, the association has grown alongside Calgary, adapting, and advancing to support a dynamic, ambitious city. They added that the milestone is more than a passage of time; it stands as a tribute to the hard work and vision of all who have contributed to this journey—the builders, leaders, and every professional committed to shaping this industry.

Carbon Upcycling Technologies, Inc. (Carbon Upcycling), a Calgary-based decarbonization and carbon capture & utilization (CCU) company, along with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the National Road Research Alliance (NRRA) has completed a three-year study on the use of low-carbon cement in highways. Carbon Upcycling’s CO2-enhanced mix achieved a 12.5% reduction in cement content while matching the workability of traditional concrete.

Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company, in a joint venture with Fluor Corporation, Ansaldo Nucleare and Sargent & Lundy, has been awarded a contract from EnergoNuclear S.A., to build two new CANDU reactors at the Cernavoda Nuclear Generating Station in Romania; the first in the world since 2007.

This is a game changing contract for AtkinsRéalis and Romania. As the sole commercial licensee of world-renowned CANDU technology, we are uniquely positioned to contribute to the vast expansion of the world’s clean power

Ian L. Edwards, President and Chief Executive Officer, AtkinsRéalis

 Deep Sky, the Canadian carbon removal project developer, has sold carbon removal credits to its founding buyers including Royal Bank of Canada and Microsoft. In return, Deep Sky intends to facilitate the removal of 10,000 tonnes of CO₂ from the atmosphere over a 10-year period via Deep Sky Labs, the world’s first carbon removal innovation and commercialization center. 

Ottawa-based Corfix, a provider of all-in-one construction management software, announced the close of its Series A funding round, securing investment from US-based Reformation Partners. This strategic partnership will enable Corfix to accelerate product development, increase presence in the U.S., and advance its mission to modernize construction project management through worker-focused technology.

The Government of Canada has officially regained ownership of the historic Québec Bridge, following an agreement with Canadian National Railway (CN). Management of the bridge, including its rehabilitation plan, will be overseen by the federal Crown corporation Jacques Cartier and Champlain Bridges Incorporated (JCCBI), leveraging its expertise from managing other major Canadian bridges. A $40 million annual investment over 25 years will fund inspections, steel and pier repairs, corrosion protection, and painting.

Toronto-based SolarBank Corporation, a provider of renewable energy solutions, announced its strategic expansion into the rapidly growing data center market. In alignment with its commitment to harnessing clean energy technologies, SolarBank says it intends to pursue opportunities as a developer, owner, and strategic partner in data center infrastructure, supporting the demand for high-performance, sustainable energy solutions within the sector.

Baker Real Estate is launching a dedicated Purpose-Built Rental Division. It will offer developers, many of whom are increasingly focused on purpose-built rentals, an opportunity to achieve stabilized buildings with full occupancy faster.

Xypex Chemical Corporation has announced that, effective November 1, 2024, Concrete Waterproofing Manufacturing Pty. Ltd. (CWM), trading as Xypex Australia, which also includes CWM’s subsidiary XMS (Thailand), and, National Concrete Solutions (NCS) will become wholly owned subsidiaries of Xypex Chemical Corporation, headquartered in Vancouver, B.C.

Alberta-based Empire Drywall has launched has launched a new siding division. Officials say the goal is to reduce contractor scheduling challenges at the jobsite. he siding division is the latest new venture for the 55-year-old company, joining a new roofing service that was added earlier this year. 

Key Takeaways:

• Alberta’s government has launched the Stop Housing Delays portal to expedite housing development by allowing developers, municipalities, and partners to report construction delays and bureaucratic red tape, aiming to speed up home-building projects.
• The government will use a collaborative, cross-departmental approach to address issues raised, potentially implementing solutions ranging from minor adjustments to larger policy reforms, ensuring that obstacles in the housing construction process are minimized.
• Alberta is experiencing a historic high in housing starts, with 33,577 new units from January to September 2024, a 35% increase over the previous year.

The Whole Story:

Alberta has launched an online portal intended to speed up housing construction across the province.

Officials say the new Stop Housing Delays online portal will allow developers, municipalities and other housing partners to report red tape and unnecessary home-building delays.

“The Stop Housing Delays portal will allow Alberta’s government to hear directly from developers, municipalities and other partners on where delays are happening in the construction process,” said Jason Nixson, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services. “This will help identify and remove barriers, ultimately getting homes built faster and continuing Alberta’s record home-building pace.”

Once developers, municipalities or industry partners have submitted their issue using the online form, government will collect and assess the information provided. Alberta’s government says it will be taking a collaborative, cross-ministry approach to ensure the appropriate departments are working together to find solutions where possible. Solutions may range from minor changes to policy reform.

“This webpage is an excellent opportunity to gather knowledge and further eliminate red tape,” said Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction. “Government has been persistent in our approach of cutting red tape and removing roadblocks, and this will help to speed up residential construction. I look forward to hearing from developers and our other partners on how we can help get projects moving and Albertans in homes.”

Officials noted that the province continues to see strong housing starts and increases. The first half of 2024 saw 9,903 apartment unit starts in the province. This marks the highest amount in any half year in Alberta’s history, breaking the previous record of 9,750 set in 1977. Albertans will benefit from 33,577 new housing starts from January through September 2024, up 35% from the same period last year. Alberta’s government remains focused on working with industry and non-profit partners to ensure that the province’s growing population has access to the housing it needs.

Key Takeaways:

• The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) report forecasts a significant weakening in housing starts and residential construction employment through 2025, with only a slow recovery projected between 2026 and 2028.
• They argue that rising costs from land values, government-imposed fees and delays in land use approvals are major barriers to building affordable housing.
• RESCON stresses the urgent need for governments to address the crisis by reducing taxes, fees, and bureaucracy to lower construction costs and improve affordability.

The Whole Story:

Housing starts over the next few years will likely weaken and the already-dire supply shortage could get even worse, warns a comprehensive report released by the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON), which represents new home builders.

The report also indicates that employment in new residential construction has peaked and will probably fall quite a lot in the years ahead. The scenario is worrying as many people rely on the industry for employment and there could be significant economic repercussions.

The report, titled Housing Market Outlooks in Ontario, was prepared for RESCON by a Toronto-based economic research firm led by Will Dunning who has been analyzing housing markets for more than 40 years for clients in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. It provides an overview of the housing market and develops forecasts covering 2024 to 2028 for Ontario, as well as municipalities in the Census Metropolitan Areas of Toronto, Hamilton and Oshawa. 

The report provides two sets of scenarios. In both, a further weakening of employment and new housing starts continues well into 2025, followed by a slow recovery of the economy and housing activity during 2026 to 2028. By the end of 2028, conditions will not have fully recovered.

We need to reduce the bureaucracy associated with getting new homes built. If we don’t take these steps the consequences could be catastrophic for our industry and the economy.

Richard Lyall, President, RESCON

“The findings of this report are particularly worrisome for builders as they point to a weakening residential construction market at the very time we need to build more housing,” explains RESCON president Richard Lyall. “Equally concerning, the outlook envisions a scenario whereby reduction in residential construction employment and job losses in associated industries could become a second substantive issue weighing on the broader economy.

“With a critical need for new housing, it is imperative that all levels of government take immediate action to boost construction by lowering the taxes, fees and levies and reducing the red tape and bureaucracy which slows the industry and adds to the cost of housing. To spur the market, we need conditions that allow builders to build houses that people can afford. Otherwise, we may be in dire straits as new home construction stalls and unemployment in the industry rises.”

The report notes that housing price increases have largely been absorbed by hikes in land values and government-imposed costs such as development charges. Due to the higher costs, the viability of building new low-rise housing, in particular, does not make financial sense.

RESCON stated that removing government-imposed costs from the prices of new homes would impact prices. In the GTA, the average municipal charge for new homes is $164,920 – about $42,000 higher than in 2022.  For apartments, the current figure is $122,387 – about $32,000 higher than in 2022. The costs of delays in approvals varies by municipality within the GTA from $2,672 to $5,576 per month. When applied to the typical delay period, it can add $43,000 to $90,000 per unit.

For new home sales to recover, the report notes that affordability needs to be returned to prior levels via a combination of interest rate decreases and reduction in government-imposed costs and land prices, although both scenarios seem unlikely to happen. The report cites other factors that need to be addressed, such as delays in land use approvals and infrastructure, the amount of developable land available for purchase by builders, and escalation of mortgage regulations which have reduced mortgage amounts that can be obtained by buyers.

“The bottom line is that all governments need to get their act together and work in unison to tackle the problems that are affecting construction of new homes,” adds Lyall. “Governments have made some inroads and the recent plan floated by the federal Conservatives to remove the sales taxes on new housing sold for under $1 million is a good start. We hope the province follows suit, and we need to reduce the bureaucracy associated with getting new homes built. If we don’t take these steps the consequences could be catastrophic for our industry and the economy.”

Key Takeaways:

• Manitoba has introduced the “Housing Starts Here” online portal, streamlining the application process for a new $26-million capital grant program aimed at helping non-profits, Indigenous governments, and municipalities develop affordable housing.
• The program allows for forgivable loans to repurpose or construct housing units and includes rent supplements and funding for support services, addressing housing affordability and the needs of those at risk of homelessness.
• The Manitoba government increased the PDF to $5 million, providing non-profits with grants and loans to cover professional services and support projects from the proposal stage to financing, boosting the capacity to develop affordable housing.

The Whole Story:

The Manitoba government is making it easier for organizations to secure funding to build affordable housing so more Manitobans can find a home.

“Manitoba is growing, and the affordable housing challenge we face today calls for a fresh new approach and the ability to quickly respond to the needs of our partners in the non-profit housing sector including Indigenous governing bodies and municipalities,” said Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith. “By focusing on new investments and program enhancements, our government is accelerating the creation of more affordable housing options for Manitobans who need them.”

The new Housing Starts Here online portal is simplifying the application process for a new $26-million capital grant program for non-profit organizations, Indigenous governments and municipalities, which will support the development of 350 social housing units in 2024-25, noted the minister.

Through the new ongoing intake application portal, interested organizations can apply for forgivable loans to acquire existing buildings that could be renovated into new social housing units, renovate derelict stock or construct new units. The portal will also include applications for rent supplements to ensure rents remain low and funding for support services to ensure people experiencing or at risk of homelessness have access to the services they need to stay housed, the minister noted.

“The new portal, along with the increase in funding, will make it easier for non-profits such as Westminster Housing to meet the need for deeply affordable housing in our communities,” said Brian Pincott, chair, Westminster Housing Society. “This program not only provides more funding, but it facilitates processes that work for the housing providers, giving us the flexibility to take advantage of opportunities as they arise to help meet the growing need for safe, secure and affordable housing.”

In addition to the $26 million for Housing Starts Here portal, the province is also increasing the Proposal Development Fund (PDF) to $5 million for non-profit organizations to access capital grant funding. PDF loans assist organizations to engage professional services to help bring their affordable housing proposals to the financing stage. Grants of up to $250,000 will be available through the fund, which will also offer repayable loans of up to $50,000.

Key Takeaways:

• Umicore has decided to continue the pause on its new battery materials plant in Ontario, prioritizing the maximization of capacity at existing facilities before expanding further.
• Umicore has outlined significant cost-saving initiatives, including a potential impact on 260 positions across the company, workforce reductions in its China battery materials plant, and restructuring of R&D activities to enhance efficiency.
• These measures are projected to save approximately $60 million annually by 2025.

The Whole Story:

Belgian materials technology company Umicore has announced a continued pause on the construction of its new battery materials plant in Loyalist, Ont. as part of an ongoing strategic review of its battery materials business. The decision comes as the company aims to maximize capacity utilization of existing plants before pursuing further expansion.

Strategic Realignment

Officials say the pause in construction was made in close alignment with Umicore’s customers. The company’s long-term supply agreement with AESC for high-nickel cathode active materials for the North American market will now be fulfilled from Umicore’s plant in Cheonan, Korea.

Umicore has not drawn on the incentives offered by the Canadian and Ontario governments for the Loyalist plant. Should construction resume in the future, the company will retain access to these incentives under the same conditions, including employment commitments.

Cost-Saving Measures

In addition to the construction pause, Umicore has unveiled details of its cost-saving initiatives:

• Approximately 260 positions may be impacted across select parts of the organization
• Workforce resizing in the Battery Materials production plant in Jiangmen, China
• Downsizing of Group Corporate Functions
• Restructuring of R&D activities for improved efficiency and customer focus
• Transfer of Heavy-Duty Diesel R&D work to Hanau, Germany, and discontinuation of R&D activities in Hørsholm, Denmark.

These measures are expected to generate approximately $60 million in annualized savings by 2025.

Industry Challenges

Bart Sap, CEO of Umicore, acknowledged the challenging environment facing the company: “Umicore is navigating a complex transitioning of the automotive industry towards electric mobility. Serving our North American customers out of Korea is now clearly the most effective use of our assets.”

Umicore has begun consultations with trade unions and works councils representatives to ensure support for affected employees. In Belgium, where approximately 100 positions may be impacted, the company has initiated the information and consultation process in accordance with legal requirements.

The company’s decision to pause the Canadian plant construction and implement cost-saving measures reflects the broader challenges facing the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Earlier this year, Umicore had already lowered its 2024 outlook for the Battery Materials Business Group due to a sharp slowdown in EV demand growth.

Key Takeaways:

• The proposed amendments will align prompt payment rules for all construction projects in Alberta, extending the 2021 Prompt Payment and Construction Lien Act (PPCLA) rules beyond private sector projects to include public projects.
• The amendments introduce clear deadlines for payments and define “proper invoice” guidelines. This ensures timely payments from contractors to subcontractors and suppliers, fostering financial stability across all levels of construction projects.
• The bill includes updates to the Condominium Property Act, such as creating a Condominium Dispute Resolution Tribunal, simplifying voting processes, and protecting against structural defects in new condos.

The Whole Story:

Alberta has tabled amendments to strengthen prompt payment for construction projects and improve governance in condominium communities

Amendments would result in all construction projects following the same set of prompt payment rules, which were established in legislation in 2021. Before now, Alberta’s government always prioritized prompt payment for government contracts, but the rules in the PPCLA only applied to private sector projects.

The Calgary Construction Association (CCA) stated that it is optimistic about the recently proposed amendments, saying the changes represent a promising step toward strengthening fairness and efficiency in Alberta’s construction sector.

In a press release the group said that the amendments introduce clearer definitions for payment deadlines and adjudication processes, fostering a smoother payment cycle across all project levels. Specifically the CCA noted that the revisions will enable prompt payment from contractors to subcontractors and suppliers, enhancing cash flow and stability throughout the industry. The CCA added that it is pleased to see the addition of “proper invoice” guidelines for public works projects, which sets a consistent and timely payment schedule, allowing contractors to focus on delivering high-quality work rather than navigating lengthy payment disputes.

The CCA stated that by committing to timely payments on public projects, Alberta is setting an example and fostering a more equitable construction landscape. They believe this shift signals a dedication to providing consistent and reliable payments, ensuring that the public sector maintains the same accountability expected in the private sector.

“Reliable, timely payments are essential to maintaining a thriving construction industry,” says Bill Black, President and CEO of the Calgary Construction Association. “These amendments signify Alberta’s commitment to supporting our construction workforce and ensuring they can focus on building the infrastructure that our province relies on.”

The changes also drew comment from the Edmonton Construction Association, which urged legislators to support them.

“Our industry is built on folks who honour their words. We committed to members that this issue would be a priority. The Government of Alberta committed the same to us, and it kept its promise. We’re grateful for the change, and we want to recognize all of those in government who listened to our concerns and proposals for solutions, including many members of Cabinet and senior civil servants,” said ECA President David Johnson. “This is a testament to the value of collaboration with government, and with our provincial association. These amendments are a critical step toward ensuring the Government of Alberta remains a preferred customer for our members, by ensuring equitable treatment for businesses and the skilled trades workers we rely on.”

Key Takeaways:

• The BCCA’s Fall 2024 report highlights a 5% decrease in the value of proposed major infrastructure projects since Spring 2024 and nearly a 20% drop over the past five years.
• The industry struggles with persistent workforce shortages, high labor costs, and payment uncertainties, which are exacerbating difficulties in meeting demand. The BCCA emphasizes the need for policies that support workforce development and establish payment certainty to stabilize the construction sector.
• With commitments from political leaders during the recent election campaign, the BCCA urges them to deliver on promises to support the construction sector by facilitating infrastructure investments, improving project approval processes, and providing stronger industry support mechanisms.

The Whole Story:

Statistics in the BC Construction Association’s (BCCA) Fall 2024 Construction Industry Stat Pack demonstrate that while the value of existing projects continues to grow, the threat of poor industry support and declining investments in major projects is alarming.

The association noted that the industry faces intense pressure to meet the current demand due to persistent workforce shortages, high labour costs, and lack of payment certainty.

According to the BCCA, the issue facing the industry is two-pronged. Firstly, the construction industry seeks increased investments in major infrastructure projects. Since Spring 2024, the value of proposed major infrastructure projects has decreased in value by 5% and nearly 20% over the past five years, which makes the future of the industry look problematic as current major projects begin to wind down with no guarantee of being adequately replaced.

“British Columbia’s construction industry will be paramount to building our province’s critical infrastructure and alleviating the housing crisis,” said Chris Atchison, President of the BC Construction Association. “During the election campaign, B.C.’s political party leaders committed to supporting the construction industry. Now that the results have been finalized, we need the government and opposition caucuses to work together to implement policies geared towards payment certainty and workforce development to ensure the construction industry can meet the current and future demand to build BC better.”

Atchison noted that the province is in high demand for major infrastructure projects. Hospitals, schools, multi-unit housing, bridges, and supporting infrastructure across the province must be built. He believes the decreasing value of proposed construction projects suggests that the province is not invested in making these a reality.

The association stated that this decrease in investments is coupled with the concurrent need for more robust support mechanisms to ensure that said projects can be delivered. The underlying factors of payment uncertainty, workforce shortage, and high labour costs pose significant strains on the construction industry, which need to be addressed by political leaders.

The association conluded that despite the need for major infrastructure investments and commitments from every party in that regard during this recently completed election, British Columbians cannot wait and need our political leaders to work together to recommit advancing major projects, attracting external investment, and creating more favourable conditions for significant projects to get approved.

“With the election now behind us, it’s time to get B.C.’s political leaders back to the legislature and to work with industry on the pressing issues impacting construction and the building of B.C.,” said the association.

To consult the Fall 2024 BC Construction Industry Stat Pack, visit www.bccassn.com/2024FallStatPack/

Details regarding data sources can be found at www.bccassn.com/2024FallStatPackSources/.

Key B.C. construction statistics:

• Construction is the No. 1 employer in B.C.’s goods sector.
• B.C.’s construction industry accounts for 10% of the province’s GDP. A 16% increase over the past 5 years.
• 243,000 people rely directly on B.C.’s construction industry for a paycheque.
• Number of workers in trades jobs: 167,300, an increase of 3,400 since Fall 2023 but still a 5-year trend decrease of 7%
• The number of women in construction trades is 9,536 (5.7%), an increase of over 2,100 since Fall 2023 and a 5-year trend increase of nearly 15%.
• Number of construction companies in B.C.: 28,065, an increase of over 200 since Fall 2023.
• The average yearly wage of BC construction employees is $72,200 ($17.5B cumulative annual wage), a slight decrease since Spring 2024 but a 5-year trend increase of 17%.
• Value of proposed construction projects in B.C.: $166 billion, a decrease of $4 billion since Spring 2024.
• The estimated value of current major construction projects underway in B.C.: $170 billion, an increase of $10 billion since Spring 2024 and a 5-year trend increase of nearly 50%.
• Number of construction jobs in B.C. that will be unfilled due to labour shortages by 2033: 6,600, an increase of 600 compared to 2032 forecasts made in Fall 2023.

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. 

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.

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 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.

Key Takeaways:

• Nearly 70% of crane activity across North America is focused on residential and mixed-use developments, signaling strong demand in these sectors.
• Calgary saw a significant 20% increase in crane numbers, driven by major infrastructure projects like the Green Line LRT and affordable housing developments.
• Toronto’s crane count increased slightly, with 83 cranes in the downtown core, highlighting a recovery in construction activity following a slowdown earlier in the year.

The Whole Story:

North America’s construction industry is showing resilience despite a slight downturn in activity, according to Rider Levett Bucknall’s (RLB) Crane Index for Q3 2024.

Published biannually, the index tracks the number of operating tower cranes across 14 major U.S. and Canadian cities, providing a snapshot of the industry’s workload.

While the report shows a modest 5% decrease in crane activity since Q1 2024, the construction sector remains active, particularly in residential and mixed-use projects, which make up nearly 70% of all crane activity.

Of the 14 cities surveyed, seven experienced an uptick in crane numbers, four saw significant declines, and three held steady, showcasing the ebb and flow of urban development across the continent. The mixed-use sector, which blends residential, commercial, and retail spaces, continues to drive much of the growth.

Canadian cities: Calgary leads, Toronto shows steady growth

Calgary emerged as a standout in the Q3 report, experiencing a 20% rise in crane numbers, bringing the total to 24. This growth is largely attributed to major projects like the $1.2 billion Calgary Events Centre and the $5.5 billion Green Line LRT project. Additionally, residential construction to address affordable housing needs is ramping up, with $550 million allocated to new projects.

Meanwhile, Toronto, long known for its bustling construction scene, saw a slight increase in crane numbers, with the count rising to 83 cranes in the downtown core. Residential developments continue to dominate, with 43 cranes dedicated to housing projects. This resurgence follows a slowdown earlier in 2024, suggesting renewed growth across various sectors, including healthcare and education.

International trends: Mixed-use and residential dominate

Across the United States, mixed-use and residential projects remain the key drivers of construction. Cities like Seattle, Denver, and Los Angeles are seeing stable activity, although some regions, such as downtown Portland, are feeling the effects of high office vacancy rates, resulting in fewer cranes.

Boston, which saw a 22% reduction in crane count, continues to focus on mixed-use developments and educational projects. The city’s construction remains robust, despite the overall decrease.

Looking ahead

The Crane Index points to a dynamic and evolving construction landscape. Though some areas face challenges, such as high office vacancy rates, the ongoing demand for residential and mixed-use developments indicates a strong future for North America’s urban infrastructure.

With major infrastructure projects continuing and capital investments flowing into healthcare, education, and public-sector initiatives, the industry is expected to remain resilient despite market fluctuations.

Key Takeaways:

• BC Conservative Leader John Rustad emphasized cutting red tape, with a promise to reduce government regulations by 25% in the first term and introduce a red tape reduction law to ease the regulatory burden on the construction industry.
• He pledged to eliminate the federal carbon tax and outdated fuel standards, which would lower fuel costs for construction companies, along with streamlining the permitting process to speed up project approvals.
• Rustad committed to several major infrastructure projects, such as bridge replacements and highway expansions, while also addressing the labour shortage by simplifying accreditation for internationally trained workers and opening up procurement processes.

The Whole Story:

BC Conservative Party Leader John Rustad addressed the construction sector this week, outlining his vision for the construction industry in B.C. Rustad’s speech at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association’s Construction Innovation Summit highlighted his party’s focus on cutting red tape, reducing the cost of doing business, and supporting significant infrastructure projects to boost the construction sector.

Rustad stated that a BC Conservative government would prioritize reducing barriers for the construction industry, starting with a commitment to reduce government regulations by 25% in its first term. “We need to get government out of the way,” Rustad said, emphasizing the need for a more efficient regulatory environment to help the private sector thrive. He also proposed introducing a red tape reduction law to ensure that for every new regulation implemented, existing regulations would be removed.

Highlighting the challenges faced by construction businesses due to high fuel costs, Rustad promised to eliminate the carbon tax and outdated carbon fuel emission standards, which he claimed would reduce costs for construction companies by approximately 36 cents per litre of fuel. He cited an example from a construction site in Surrey, where the carbon tax on fuel used to dig a housing foundation added $40,000 to the project’s costs.

Rustad also pledged to accelerate the permitting process for building projects, working with municipalities to reduce approval times for building permits and business permits. He cited concerns from contractors regarding lengthy and complex processes that slow down construction, particularly in urban areas like Vancouver.

On infrastructure, Rustad committed to several major projects, including the replacement of key bridges and expansion of highways. Notable projects mentioned included a new bridge across Okanagan Lake, replacement of the Taylor Bridge in Peace Country, replacing the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge, fast-tracking the George Massey Tunnel replacement project, and upgrading Highway 19 in Nanaimo. He also stressed the importance of expanding Highway 1 to six lanes from Vancouver to Chilliwack to alleviate congestion, calling it a “critical link” for the province. He would also extend permits for LNG infrastructure projects.

“They would have to go back to the environmental assessment process. That would take probably 10 years and we would lose another generation of opportunity for LNG,” he said.

The

In terms of labour, Rustad acknowledged the industry’s ongoing struggle to find skilled workers and pledged to reduce barriers for internationally trained workers to obtain accreditation in BC. “We need to ensure people can get to work right away, rather than being held back by long, cumbersome processes,” he said.

Rustad also touched on procurement policies, promising to implement an open procurement process for qualified contractors and workers, which would provide greater opportunities for local construction businesses. Additionally, he emphasized the need to expand industrial land availability to support manufacturing and construction growth in the province.

“It’s time to get this province back up and running,” Rustad declared, emphasizing that his party’s approach would focus on unleashing the potential of the private sector while reducing government intervention. He concluded by stating that a BC Conservative government would “bring common sense back” to B.C.’s construction industry, enabling companies to succeed and pay good wages, which in turn would address affordability issues.

BC Premier David Eby has also been busy courting the province’s construction sector as election day approaches. Eby recently announced several key policy initiatives aimed at enhancing the construction sector and addressing housing needs. He pledged to fast-track the factory-built home construction sector by streamlining regulations and creating a province-wide framework for municipalities, which includes approving “ready-to-use” designs to expedite the permitting process.

Eby also unveiled a $36-billion investment plan for BC Hydro infrastructure over the next decade, expected to support 10,500 to 12,500 jobs annually while expanding the electrical system for industrial development and housing. Additional commitments include eliminating ‘no pet’ clauses in rental buildings, subsidizing insurance for small landlords, and building new long-term care facilities. Furthermore, he proposed a new streamlined approval process for electricity projects and plans to establish an addictions treatment center specifically for construction workers.

Canada’s construction industry is exploding and these companies are leading the charge. A recent list of fastest growing companies in Canada saw the nation’s industrial sector featured heavily. These businesses are reshaping the landscape, tackling diverse sectors from residential and commercial building to infrastructure and specialized services. As demand for sustainable and efficient construction continues to rise, these standout firms are driving growth, creating jobs, and setting new standards in the industry. Here’s a look at the top companies that are making waves across the Canadian construction scene.

Cairo Development – Calgary, Alta.

Cairo Development, located in Calgary, specializes in multi-family residential projects and construction management. Founded by Ash Mahmoud, the company has completed over 8,000 multi-family and commercial units. Cairo Development is currently involved in 10 multi-family projects across Alberta, including River’s Edge on 8 Street SE and Kings Landing on 67 Ave SW. The firm focuses on delivering value-engineered construction services and has established a presence in both Calgary and Edmonton to meet the demand for new developments in the region.

MMEnergy – Sherwood Park, Alta.

MMEnergy, an electrical contracting company based in Sherwood Park, Alberta, specializes in providing comprehensive electrical services for industrial and commercial projects. With a strong emphasis on safety, reliability, and quality, MMEnergy offers a wide range of solutions including equipment installation, power distribution, lighting systems, and preventive maintenance. The company is known for its expertise in optimizing electrical operations to enhance efficiency and performance across various sectors.

HKC Construction – Mississauga

HKC Construction is a prominent national general contractor, specializing in commercial, industrial, and institutional construction projects. With over a decade of industry experience, the company offers a comprehensive range of services, including general contracting, construction management, and design/build solutions. Their work includes office renovations, school renovations, restaurant build-outs, and warehouse construction.

Astro Excavating Inc. – Toronto, Ont.

Astro Excavating Inc., located in Toronto, Ontario, is a specialized contractor renowned for its expertise in excavation, site grading, and environmental remediation. The company is fully unionized and boasts a skilled team dedicated to delivering high-quality results across various construction projects. They have been working on excavations for developments such as Y9825 in Richmond Hill, a 22-storey mixed-use project by Metroview Developments, and a 37-storey mixed-use building at Spadina subway station in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood.

Dragon Industrial Services – Leduc, Alta.

Dragon Industrial Services Ltd. is a privately-owned Canadian company specializing in refractory installations and high-angle stack work. Founded to provide an open-shop alternative in the refractory market, the company’s expertise extends to providing complete project solutions, from design and procurement to refractory dry-out, utilizing an extensive library of refractory products to ensure modern and technical installations. Recently, Dragon Industrial Services expanded its service offerings by launching Dragon Ice Blasting Ltd., a new division focused on dry ice blasting for industrial cleaning needs.

Giffen Consulting – Vancouver, B.C.

Giffen Consulting Ltd., is a specialized engineering and design company providing innovative solutions for the mining, utility, and heavy industrial sectors. The company’s expertise spans various areas, including electrical engineering, instrumentation, and control systems design. Giffen has been involved in many significant projects, including the design and implementation of power distribution systems for major mining operations and the development of advanced control systems for industrial facilities.

Rain City Industrial – Vancouver, B.C.

Rain City Industrial is one of Western Canada’s premier design-build firm specializing in industrial workspaces. The company offers custom solutions for offices, warehouses, and specialty construction workspaces, catering to diverse industries including manufacturing, cold storage, warehouse and distribution, life sciences, and agritech. Founded in 2017, Rain City Industrial has expanded its services to include Rain City Cold Storage & Controlled Environments and Rain City Racking, providing comprehensive in-house resources. The company’s unique capability as the only design-build contractor in Canada with a warehouse racking and storage dealership allows for seamless integration of storage solutions within overall project designs. Recently, Rain City Industrial has been involved in several significant projects, including work for PBX Logistics, Molicel, and Pattison Food Group.

Orion Construction – Langley, B.C.

Orion Construction is a rapidly growing design-build contractor specializing in industrial, commercial, and multi-family construction projects across Western Canada. Founded by Joshua Gaglardi, the company has established itself as an innovative force in the construction industry, offering comprehensive solutions from project conception to completion. Orion Construction has been involved in several significant projects recently, showcasing their expertise and growth. In July 2024, they broke ground on the Cade Barr Business Park in Mission, B.C., a major development spanning over 400,000 square feet across four buildings. Additionally, Orion has been working on various industrial and commercial projects, including the Cedar Coast South Surrey development in the Campbell Heights Business Park and the Hayer Business Centre Phase II.

SitePartners – Abbotsford, B.C.

*SitePartners is a specialized marketing agency focusing exclusively on serving the industrial sector. Founded in early 2018, the company has experienced rapid growth, earning recognition as the 35th Fastest-Growing Startup Company in Canada by Canadian Business and Maclean’s in 2020, with a remarkable 1061% revenue growth. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including marketing, branding, advertising, video production, digital solutions, and communications, tailored specifically for construction, manufacturing, and resource-based industries. The company recently moved into SiteHQ, a fully renovated space in Abbotsford, B.C. that boasts the country’s first ever industrial production studio and is home to Site’s growing list of diverse services. SitePartners’ commitment to the industrial sector and its innovative approach have positioned it as a leader in specialized marketing services, recognized as the #1 Industrial Specialized Agency in Canada and the 12th fastest-growing agency by Adweek.

*SiteNews is part of the Site group of companies

Shift – Victoria, B.C.

Shift Energy Group is a leading provider of comprehensive clean energy solutions, specializing in solar panel installation and clean tech innovations. Founded in 2010, the company has established a strong presence across Western Canada with offices in Victoria, Vancouver, and Nanaimo. Shift Energy Group’s mission is to make clean, affordable energy accessible to everyone while protecting the environment for future generations. The company offers a wide range of services, including solar panel installations for residential, commercial, and industrial clients, as well as energy storage solutions. Recent projects include a 54.18kW solar installation for the Township of Esquimalt in Victoria, featuring 126 panels, and a large-scale 180.18kW commercial project in Cedar, BC, comprising 396 panels.

Ace of Decks – Beaconsfield, Que.

Ace of Decks, based in Canada, is a premier provider of decking solutions specializing in residential and commercial projects. Known for their commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, the company offers a wide range of services, including deck design, installation, and maintenance. Recently, Ace of Decks has expanded its portfolio with several notable projects, including custom outdoor living spaces that integrate innovative materials. Their dedication to sustainability is reflected in their use of eco-friendly materials and practices. With a reputation for excellence and attention to detail, Ace of Decks continues to be a trusted partner for clients looking to enhance their outdoor environments.

ESW Building Services Inc. – Mississauga, Ont.

ESW Building Services is a comprehensive provider of construction and facility management solutions, specializing in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services for various sectors, including commercial and industrial clients. Recently, ESW Building Services has expanded its portfolio by undertaking significant projects such as the installation of advanced HVAC systems in large commercial buildings and the retrofitting of energy-efficient lighting solutions for industrial facilities.

Novarc Technologies

Novarc Technologies Inc. is a pioneering robotics company specializing in collaborative robots and AI-based machine vision solutions for automated welding applications. Their flagship product, the Spool Welding Robot (SWR), is designed to semi-automate pipe welding, significantly increasing productivity and quality while reducing costs. Founded in 2013 by engineers Reza Abdollahi and Soroush Karimzadeh, Novarc has established itself as an industry leader in welding automation technology. Recently, the company launched NovEye Autonomy (Gen 2), an AI-powered vision processing system that fully automates the pipe welding process. This innovation represents an industry first, leveraging years of machine learning data. Novarc’s technology has been adopted in 38 countries, with their SWR demonstrating productivity increases of 3-5x for carbon steel and up to 12x for stainless steel projects.

Peter Lucas Project Management – Saskatoon, Sask.

Peter Lucas Project Management is a specialized project delivery company that provides services for industrial and commercial projects, founded by Peter Lucas. The company invests in people, community, and cutting-edge technology to ensure efficient project management, often starting project delivery in as little as three weeks. With a focus on industrial environments, Peter Lucas Project Management has gained recognition for its comprehensive support throughout the project life cycle.

Black Tar Construction – Ottawa, Ont.

Black Tar Construction is an Ottawa-based company specializing in asphalt paving and foundation repair services. Founded in 2013, the company has built a reputation for outstanding customer service and quality workmanship. Black Tar offers a wide range of services including residential and commercial paving, asphalt maintenance, pothole repairs, and driveway installations. With a team of over 50 paving professionals, Black Tar Construction prides itself on its core values of accountability, teamwork, and customer focus. The company stands out for its 5-year maintenance warranty on driveway paving and its dedication to using cutting-edge technology and environmentally conscious practices in their operations.

Elvaan Group Inc. – Mississauga, Ont.

Elvaan Group Inc. is a specialized construction equipment supplier with over 30 years of experience in the industry. The company offers a comprehensive range of services including sales, rentals, maintenance, and parts supply for a wide variety of construction equipment. Elvaan Group Inc. is known for providing new equipment solutions from leading global brands in the Canadian market, as well as offering certified rebuilt units with warranties. Their expertise extends to HVAC installation and maintenance, electrical systems, plumbing, and fire protection services. Recently, Elvaan Group Inc. has expanded its focus on sustainable building practices and smart building technologies.

Blackline Safety – Calgary, Alta.

Blackline Safety is a global leader in connected safety technology, specializing in gas detectors, area monitors, and lone worker devices. Founded in 2004, the company has evolved from its origins in consumer GPS tracking to focus on industrial safety solutions. Blackline’s innovative products leverage cloud-connected technology, data analytics, and real-time monitoring to ensure worker safety across various industries, with flagship offerings including the G7 series of connected safety devices and the G7 EXO area monitor. With its technology deployed in over 70 countries, Blackline Safety protects more than 150,000 workers worldwide.

Cornerstone Timberframes – Steinbach, Man.

Cornerstone Timberframes is a family-run business dedicated to building custom timber frame structures for clients across the USA and Canada. With over 25 years of experience, the company specializes in a diverse range of projects, including homes, cottages, mid-rise residential buildings, and large commercial spaces. Cornerstone Timberframes embraces innovative techniques and materials, particularly in the growing field of mass timber construction, which offers faster build times and lighter foundations. The company actively participates in industry events such as the Mass Timber Group Summit, showcasing its commitment to collaboration and excellence in timber frame design and installation.

VPAC Construction Group Ltd. – Vancouver, B.C.

VPAC Construction Group Ltd. is a general contractor specializing in preconstruction, construction management, and general contracting services for commercial, multi-family, tenant improvement, and senior housing projects. With over two decades of experience, the company has built a reputation in Vancouver for delivering exceptional quality builds. The company prides itself on guiding clients through every step of the construction process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. VPAC’s system is built on experience, enhanced by technology, and executed by a dedicated team of project managers. Recently, VPAC joined Procore, a construction management software platform, in May 2024, demonstrating their commitment to leveraging technology for improved project coordination and management.

EastPoint – Halifax, N.S.

EastPoint is a multidisciplinary engineering and construction firm that specializes in providing innovative solutions across various sectors, including commercial, industrial, and institutional projects. The company integrates practical hands-on construction experience into its design philosophy, ensuring that projects are managed from inception through to completion. EastPoint’s expertise encompasses a wide range of services, including fire suppression, electrical engineering, project management, and site development. Recently, the firm joined Procore in June 2024, enhancing its project management capabilities and commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology. EastPoint is known for its collaborative approach, involving Indigenous-owned businesses in the procurement process and emphasizing community engagement to ensure projects align with local culture and values.

Industra Construction Corp. – Langley, B.C.

Industra Construction Corp. is a leading design-build and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services provider specializing in industrial, municipal, and First Nations markets across Western and Central Canada. The company is known for its single source of accountability, budget management, and commitment to quality control, ensuring faster project completion with reduced risk for owners. Industra offers a comprehensive range of services including water treatment, wastewater treatment, sewage lift stations, and modular construction solutions. With a focus on innovative practices, the company has successfully completed projects in challenging environments, such as remote locations requiring barge or ice road access. Industra’s dedication to community engagement and sustainable practices has positioned it as a trusted partner for complex infrastructure projects in diverse sectors, including petrochemical, power generation, and renewable energy.

Cambium Inc. – Peterborough, Ont.

Cambium Inc. is a multi-service consulting and engineering company founded in 2006, providing high-quality expertise throughout Ontario. The firm specializes in environmental engineering, geotechnical solutions, building sciences, and construction quality verification. Cambium’s team includes experienced engineers, hydrogeologists, ecologists, and technicians who collaborate to deliver innovative and practical solutions grounded in a sound conservation ethic. Recently, Cambium has expanded its capabilities by operating a CCIL-certified materials testing laboratory for soils, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt analysis.

Gator Construction Group Inc. – Canada

Gator Construction Group Inc. is a dynamic construction firm specializing in concrete solutions and comprehensive project management services. Originally established as Gator Concrete, the company has expanded its expertise to include a wide range of construction services, from initial consultation and design to final installation. Gator Construction is known for its nimble and adaptable approach, allowing them to tackle projects of all sizes while minimizing downtime for clients.

Crozier Consulting Engineers – Collingwood, Ont.

Crozier Consulting Engineers is a leading multidisciplinary consulting firm dedicated to delivering exceptional engineering and land development services primarily in the private sector. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, including civil, water resources, transportation, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering, alongside hydrogeology, environmental consulting, utility infrastructure, landscape architecture, and building science. Crozier emphasizes collaboration with top universities for research initiatives and actively engages in community development through various philanthropic efforts. Recently, the company established the University of Guelph C.F. Crozier & Associates Inc. Scholarship to support future engineering students.

Triumph Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc. – Toronto, Ont.

Triumph Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc. is a prominent provider of roofing and building envelope solutions with over 36 years of experience in the industry. Based in Toronto, the company specializes in a wide range of services, including roofing, waterproofing, cladding, glazing, and restoration, catering to both commercial and residential clients across Canada. The firm emphasizes sustainability in its projects, ensuring that materials and practices align with environmental standards.

RAM Consulting – Vancouver, B.C.

RAM Consulting is a project delivery firm founded in 2007, specializing in engineering, project management, construction management, and safety management services for some of Canada’s largest infrastructure projects, including highways and pipelines. With a team of dedicated professionals, RAM offers innovative, solution-oriented expertise throughout all phases of project delivery, ensuring clients receive comprehensive support from initial planning to project completion. The firm has worked on notable infrastructure projects such as the Vancouver Airport Fuel Delivery Project and the New St. Paul’s Hospital.

Britespan Building Systems Inc. – Wingham, Ont.

Britespan Building Systems Inc. is a leading authority in fabric buildings across North America, specializing in innovative solutions for commercial, municipal, public works, and agricultural industries. With over 28 years of experience, the company designs, engineers, manufactures, and delivers top-quality structures tailored to meet diverse client needs. Britespan offers a range of customizable options for permanent, temporary, and portable fabric buildings that comply with site-specific codes. Their services include sales, re-covers, repairs, maintenance, and accessories, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the building lifecycle. The firm is ISO 9001 certified and operates through a network of localized dealers who provide expertise and customer service.

Giatec Scientific Inc. – Nepean, Ont.

Giatec Scientific Inc. is an innovative Canadian company revolutionizing the concrete industry with advanced non-destructive testing technologies and IoT solutions. Founded in 2010 by Pouria Ghods and Aali R. Alizadeh, Giatec specializes in developing devices and software for concrete quality control and condition assessment, including wireless sensors for real-time monitoring of concrete properties such as temperature, humidity, and strength. The company’s flagship products include SmartRock and BlueRock, which provide critical data to ensure optimal curing conditions and structural integrity.

Ehrenburg Homes – Saskatoon, Sask.

Ehrenburg Homes is a home builder based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship since its founding in 1983 by Joe Ehr. The company has built a reputation for producing homes through expert workmanship, outstanding service, and the use of premium materials. Named in homage to Ehrenburg Castle in Germany, the firm embodies the regal aspects associated with its name, offering deluxe features and refined details in every project.

Weston Forest Products – Mississauga, Ont.

Weston Forest Products is a leading distributor and remanufacturer of softwood and hardwood lumber, as well as specialty panel products, serving the industrial and construction sectors throughout North America. Founded in 1953 as a family business, Weston has grown into a dynamic organization recognized for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Recently, Weston expanded its manufacturing capabilities with the acquisition of Kings Wood Products, enhancing its product offerings for industrial customers. The firm specializes in providing tailored solutions such as crating, packaging, pallets, and niche wood products essential for various construction processes.