Category: Projects

Transcript: Hello, everyone. Welcome back to Digging In from SiteNews. We are going through the week’s biggest construction headlines. And man, we have some major breaking news that broke late this week. So we have four top stories. First, nation building project list leaks. Second up, Bird construction is taking to the high seas. Third, PCL has completed a historic digital consolidation project. And finally, Quebec has pulled the plug of support on a $7 billion EV project. And of course, stick around for the end. You can listen to our bonus story, which is about protecting ancient graffiti and Canada’s role in that. So without further ado, let’s get into it.

So one of our top stories, there’s been a leaked draft of 32 potential projects that might qualify under Ottawa’s New Building Canada Act. So these are major infrastructure, energy, mining projects, and they could be fast-tracked for approvals. So the list was obtained by the Globe and Mail. It’s not final, but it kind of offers one of the clearest looks at some of the projects that Mark Carney is looking at. I mean, we’ve had bits and pieces here and there, but this is the most fulsome view we have. Of projects that could be subject to the Building Canada Act. So let’s rattle off some of them that made this leaked preliminary list. So first, we have the Northwest Coast Oil Pipeline from Alberta to BC. We have LNG Canada Phase 2, which I believe we wrote about this recently because a major kind of early works contract was awarded for this. You also have KSI, LISMS, LNG, and KSI. So these are the Nisga’a nations LNG project. Port expansions at Churchill, in Quebec, St. John, and also Vancouver’s Roberts Bank Terminal 2 project. So a lot of port projects, although I believe Carney mentioned some of these recently. Ring of Fire mining projects, Darlington small modular reactors. As people in Ontario know, most of Ontario’s power is nuclear, and they’re trying to expand that. Bay de Nord offshore oil project, and just a bunch of others. So it’ll be really interesting to see if that list becomes pared down. And maybe this was purposely leaked just to get the public’s reaction to see if there’s any kind of hot button projects that they might want to avoid or nix from it.

Next up, Bird Construction has acquired FRPD. So Fraser River Pile and Dredge. So they are Canada’s largest marine land foundation and dredging company. And the transaction is valued at about $82.3 million. So this company is headquartered in New Westminster, BC, right on the Fraser River. And FRPD was founded in 1911. So that’s before World War One. And they employ about 300 people. So Bird said the purchase is expected to strengthen its infrastructure portfolio by adding national marine construction and land foundation expertise. While also enhancing their profit margins. So on a pro forma basis, they expect this new new company to generate about $160 million in revenue. So why is this interesting? Exactly about one year ago, Bird acquired Jacob Bros for 135 million. So this is kind of a continuation of Bird’s aggressive acquisition strategy in these large purchases. And this is also during a kind of an uncertain period of time. So they’re trying to build a new company, and they’re trying to build a certain economic time. So it’s really interesting to see Bird kind of double down on the strategy, despite some of the geopolitical challenges that we’re facing right now, and just kind of the confidence that they have in the current market.

So next up, PCL, one of the largest construction companies in Canada. I think it’s the largest construction company in Canada. So they’ve just completed a sweeping digital transformation, consolidating 26 separate enterprise resource planning systems into one single company. So they’re going to be building a new company, one single Microsoft Azure cloud platform. And this was completed by Syntax Systems. And they say that this is one of North America’s largest ever ERP consolidations. It was a multi year project that unified kind of decades of fragmented payroll and operations infrastructure across, you know, more than 370 financial entities. And it migrated all that data, it streamlined all those workflows. This was just like a massive, massive, massive, massive, massive, massive, massive, massive, massive lift, you know, at an $8 billion contractor. And so they say it’s going to provide greater agility for their finance, payroll, supply chain and project execution. So why do we care about this? Why does this matter? Well, I think in my experience, from what I’ve seen, during my coverage of the sector, what’s often what often happens that kind of these large, sophisticated contractors and is proven out amongst them can trickle down into smaller ones. And this is also just kind of the largest, or sorry, the latest rather large digitization effort in the construction sector. I know Graham had a major one in the past few years. I’m sure many others have done similar things. And the question is why? Well, one, I think that digitization is just the future of being an efficient company of any kind. But also, you know, the buzzword of all buzzwords, artificial intelligence. So if you do not have structured data, if you don’t have structured data, if you do not have clean, good, organized data for AI to comb through and interface with, it’s like having a digital Word document compared to something scrawled on a piece of paper and crayon. You know, AI can’t do much with that. And so to utilize the tools of the future, I’m guessing that PCL needs to do something like this to make sure that their housekeeping is in order. And so tools that might not even exist today, they will be able to do something like this. And so I think that’s a take advantage of later because they’ve done this heavy lifting.

So next up, we are moving to Quebec. So Quebec Superior Court has declared Northvolt Batteries North America insolvent. So this places it under creditor protection. And this is just after the provincial government withdrew its funding for the company’s $7 billion battery plant that they plan to build near Montreal. I remember them announcing this. It was hailed as just a humongous economic win for the region. So this ruling follows Quebec’s effort to recover about $260 million that is owed by the firm, of which I think nearly $2 million has already been seized from frozen accounts. And Northvolt, which laid off about 50 of its employees this week, they accused the government of just abruptly abandoning the project despite attempts to find investors. But Northvolt, did say would not contest these proceedings. Now, provincial officials say that the company failed to present a plan that met Quebec’s interests. I think this is particularly indicative of the times that we’re in. There have been other struggles in Canada’s EB sector, and other major projects have stalled or been delayed or even abandoned or shelved due to rising costs and trade pressures. You know, I think a lot of things that are outside of these companies are going to be delayed or even abandoned or shelved due to rising costs. Unfortunately, I mean, I think that this is just disappointing to see. I know there were tens of billions of dollars tied up in this industry. And a lot of people were really looking forward to it putting food on their tables for years to come. However, I would say this, I think that we saw years and years of the LNG sector struggle, particularly in BC after it was touted as this huge economic driver. And I think a lot of people had given up on that. Industry or didn’t think that it might happen anytime soon. And look at us now. We have LNG Canada, Wood Fibre LNG, Cedar LNG, the list goes on. We definitely thought we had missed the window in LNG, and that didn’t turn out to be the case. So, you know, I think there’s still hope. And, you know, hopefully in the future, you know, the EV and vehicle plant and battery manufacturing sector can experience a resurgence. And I think that’s going to be a big part of the resurgence after some of these difficult economic times come to a close.

Well, dear listener, you’ve made it to the end of the podcast. And we have the bonus story. Think twice before getting upset at graffiti artists defacing your job site, because it could one day become very cherished history. Because right now, Canada is playing a key role in trying to document ancient graffiti along Asia’s famed Silk Road before it’s gone. So there’s a new dam being built in Pakistan that threatens to erase some of these centuries old carvings that have been left by traders and travelers, missionaries, pilgrims, armies that pass through the region in the route, leaving their mark. This dam, which is set to be complete in about five years, is going to flood the entire region. And so most of this route and most of these carvings will be destroyed. But they’re hoping… to live on thanks to researchers from Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario. And so what they’re doing is they’re part of an international team that is in the region right now, and they’re using high-tech equipment to do digital scanning of every single rock, every little patch of dirt that has some of these ancient carvings, this ancient graffiti. And so even after this massive dam covers up all this stuff, people are still going to be able to digitally tour it. There’s going to be a 3D model of each rock, so you can walk through these places, and researchers can check it out, and the public can check it out. And this graffiti will live on long after it’s destroyed. So that is this week’s episode. Thank you so much for joining us. If you want more stories and insights, go to readsightnews.com. And of course, once you’re there, you know, give our free newsletter a check and sign up. And we will see you next week. Who knows what major news stories might break, but we will be there to cover them. Goodbye for now.

Transcript: Hello everyone. Welcome back to Digging In the podcast from SiteNews, where we dig into the biggest construction headlines of the week. I’m your host, SiteNews editor in chief, Russell Hixson, and we have some massive news for you all. First up, our first headline, Canada has officially launched its Major Projects Office. After that, number two, we’re going to be looking into big tech as they eye the construction sector for optimization. And our third headline is a trio of humongous project updates in Ontario. And for our fourth story, Westbank has sold their entire stake in the Sen̓áḵw project, so we’re going to be discussing that, and stick around to the end for our bonus story, we’re going to be talking about how minerals are so nice we’re trying to mine them twice. So without further ado, let’s get into it.

So first up, we have some massive news out of Ottawa. Prime Minister Mark Carney has officially launched the major projects office, and it’s opening its headquarters in Calgary, and there are plans for satellite offices in other cities. So what is it? Well, it’s going to act as a single point of contact for companies and governments that are pursuing large scale projects, kind of nation building projects, as they’ve said, these would be ports, railways, energy corridors, critical mineral developments and clean energy initiatives. Kearney has also kind of signaled that some of the first projects that Canada is eyeing are ports. So yeah, they say that this office is going to streamline environmental and regulatory reviews, and they’re trying to get project approval timelines down to no more than two years. And we already know who’s going to be leading this effort. It’s going to be Don Farrell. So they are the former head of the Trans Mountain Corporation and Transalta, and so, yeah, they’re going to be the CEO. And so why does this matter? Well, rather than navigating kind of this patchwork of federal departments and agencies, proponents are going to be able to deal with one entity. And also the government’s been very explicit that they want to prioritize projects of national significance. And so that’s, I think these projects are going to be evaluated in a bit different of a light. So that’s going to be very interesting to see how it rolls out. And, you know, some of the other cities that are going to get these offices.

So next up, we’re going to talk about big tech continuing to turn its gaze towards the construction sector. So Procore and Amazon have signed a multi year strategic collaboration agreement. So it’s going to be aimed at accelerating digital transformation in construction using artificial intelligence analytics and data driven tools. So the two companies say they’re going to co invest in product development and market of marketing market initiatives and also procores construction platform is now available in the Amazon Web Services marketplace. They say that the collaboration will be used to advance the use of AI to streamline project delivery, improve decision making and reduce risk. Obviously, Amazon famously disrupted, you know, brick and mortar stores all bookstores by selling books online. And they’re not the only ones, I think, recently, about a week ago, field AI, which is backed by Nvidia and Bill Gates, they they write programs that control models, that control robotics worldwide that, you know, are used in sectors like construction, energy, logistics, and you know, they’re they’re wanting to use them on construction sites. They raised about $400 million I think they’re valued at $2 billion and so why does this matter? Well, you know, that says it all. The tech industry has a ton of money to throw around. Obviously, Amazon and Nvidia are the biggest companies in the entire world, and if they’re looking at construction, they have vast amounts of capital to disrupt. And it’ll be really interesting to see what Amazon comes up with, and in the coming years, you know what big tech is going to do when it comes to construction, then, you know, they may have a more outside perspective and be able to, you know, come at these problems in in a different way. And obviously, construction is facing a lot of labor challenges. It’s facing a lot of productivity challenge. It challenges. So it could be really fascinating to see what comes from some of these gigantic tech companies.

Finally, it was a big week for Ontario builders. So Ontario is moving forward on several major infrastructure projects. We got some huge updates. So first they awarded a. Uh, the contract for the 9.2 kilometer westward extension of Toronto’s Eglinton Crosstown LRT to Trillium rail partners, and so this will add seven new stations and fully integrate rail signaling and communication systems. So also you had Infrastructure Ontario and North York General Hospital issue an RFP for a new patient care tower, and that will add over 300 private rooms and nearly 100 acute care beds and underground parking. And so that’s a major health care project. Also, the province has awarded the first contracts for highway 413, which is a long planned route that’s expected to significantly ease gridlock in Toronto. So for all our Toronto listeners, you know what it’s like to be sitting in that that traffic. And so this is also expected to create 6000 jobs annually during construction and contribute more than $1 billion to Ontario’s GDP. So this could be just a massive impact for Ontario.

So for our fourth and final story, Westbank, a Vancouver based developer, a major developer, has sold its entire ownership stake in the first two phases of the massive Sen̓áḵw housing development right in the heart of Vancouver, and they’ve sold it to OPT Trust, which is the Canadian pension fund manager as a result. So now the Squamish nation and op t trust are equal ownership partners for phase one and two, while the nation has secured full ownership of phases three and four. So why are we talking about this? Well, Westbank hasn’t publicly commented on why they did this, but I suspect a lot of developers, and again, this is not confirmed, but a lot of developers are face facing issues right now with the slump in the condo market. You know, I suspect that west bank wants a bit of liquidity. So, you know, a lot of developers have been selling off assets and trying to get their affairs in order to kind of make it through this challenging time in the development sector. So this could be one way that Westbank is trying to weather current economic conditions, is just get that cash flow going.

All right, for our bonus story, it’s very apt for digging in as we’re digging into mining. That’s right, we’re going back to the mines, as are many others. It seems that the mining industry is facing mounting pressures to meet soaring demand for copper and other critical minerals that are needed for our energy transition, particularly with electric vehicles, solar panels, all those different things. But we have declining ore grades. There’s very long project timelines and waste challenges. So according to a 2020, research paper, the entire world dug up about Sif, 650 million metric tons of copper, between 1910 and 2010 but about 100 million tons never even made it to market, and so experts argue that all that metal is just still sitting there laying in tailings tailings ponds, and it’s potentially Just a massive resource waiting for the right technology to unlock it. So companies are increasingly turning to innovation to try and pick up these table scraps, these crumbs that have fallen by remining tailings, they’re trying to improve grinding and leaching processes and exploring bioengineering solutions to get more value from existing resources, because digging a new mine is dirty, it’s expensive, takes a long time, and it just puts us kind of back in the same situation. So why not go back to places that have already been mined and using modern technology and slurp up those crumbs? That’s what people are doing. And obviously, you know from the top, we explain why this matters. We’re in the midst of a major energy transition. We want to drive electric vehicles. We want to shift our energy over to more sustainable sources. And a lot of these things require these critical minerals, and that’s why I think Canada and a lot of other countries have developed a critical mineral strategy. And yeah, that does it for this week. Thank you so much for joining us. If you want more stories and insights, go to readsite news.com and subscribe to our industry leading newsletter. Until next week, I’m your host, Russell Hixson, we’ll see you in a bit.

Key Takeaways:

• Fermeuse Energy Ltd. plans to build a $12–15 billion LNG liquefaction hub at the Fermeuse Marine Base, aiming to export gas from Newfoundland’s Jeanne d’Arc Basin to Europe.
• The project is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and more than 500 permanent positions, with strong support from the Town of Fermeuse.
• The development aligns with provincial and federal goals of using natural gas as a transition fuel and could position Newfoundland and Labrador as a major global LNG supplier.

The Whole Story:

Fermeuse Energy Ltd. has unveiled plans for a massive liquefied natural gas hub on Newfoundland’s east coast, a project the company says could turn the province into a major exporter of LNG to Europe.

The $12-billion to $15-billion development would see the Fermeuse Marine Base converted into a liquefaction hub to process offshore gas from the Jeanne d’Arc Basin. The company estimates the basin holds 9.7 trillion cubic feet of associated gas — more than three times the initial reserves found off Nova Scotia’s Sable Island.

Fermeuse Energy says the project will use advanced LNG technology and take advantage of the marine base’s nearly one kilometre of quayside, heavy-lift capacity and ice-free harbour. The company expects the hub to generate thousands of construction jobs and more than 500 permanent positions.

“This transformative project harnesses Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore gas reserves to create a sustainable energy future,” Fermeuse Energy CEO Swapan Kataria said in a statement Tuesday. “We’re not only building on local expertise to create jobs and economic resilience, but also contributing to Canada’s role in the global energy landscape.”

The Town of Fermeuse has endorsed the plan, with Mayor Jerome Kenny calling it “a tremendous opportunity for economic development” that would bring long-term stability to residents.

The project, which the company promoted ahead of the Gastech 2025 energy conference in Milan, is expected to deliver provincial royalties and align with both provincial and federal government goals of using natural gas as a transition fuel.

Fermeuse Energy is a Newfoundland and Labrador-based firm focused on energy infrastructure and offshore resource development. The company’s partner, Crown LNG Holdings Ltd., specializes in liquefaction and regasification terminals for harsh environments.

Key Takeaways:

• Quebec has officially scrapped the $7-billion Northvolt battery plant after the company failed to deliver a viable plan, leaving the province unable to recoup its $270-million equity stake following Northvolt’s bankruptcy in Sweden.
• Of the $510 million in taxpayer support, Quebec expects to recover only the $240-million loan, while Hydro-Québec will reallocate 352 megawatts of reserved power once earmarked for the plant.
• The failure underscores wider setbacks in Canada’s EV push, with multiple stalled or delayed projects raising questions about the long-term payoff of more than $50 billion in federal and provincial subsidies.

The Whole Story:

Quebec has pulled the plug on the Northvolt battery plant, ending a high-profile but troubled project once billed as a cornerstone of the province’s green industrial strategy.

Economy Minister Christine Fréchette announced Tuesday the government will no longer invest in Northvolt Batteries North America, saying the company failed to present a plan that met Quebec’s interests.

“This venture proved unsuccessful, and we are obviously disappointed,” Fréchette said in a statement, adding the province will seek to recover as much of its investment as possible.

The decision marks the collapse of Northvolt’s $7-billion plan to build a plant in Saint-Basile-le-Grand and McMasterville, south of Montreal. Quebec had backed the project with $510 million in public money, including a $240-million guaranteed loan and a $270-million investment in the Swedish parent company.

Fréchette said the $270 million is lost following Northvolt’s bankruptcy filing in Sweden earlier this year, but the government expects to recover the loan. Hydro-Québec had also set aside 352 megawatts of power for the facility, which will now be reallocated.

The plant was touted as a pillar of Premier François Legault’s “battery sector” strategy, intended to attract research, mining and manufacturing linked to electric vehicle production. Fréchette said other projects remain on track.

Opposition parties blasted the government, accusing the Coalition Avenir Québec of mismanagement. Liberal Leader Pablo Rodriguez called the project “a failure on the planning level and on the execution level.” Québec solidaire’s Ruba Ghazal said Quebecers may never see their money again, while Parti Québécois MNA Pascal Paradis called it “hundreds of millions of dollars … wasted by the CAQ government.”

Canada’s overall EV push has hit major roadblocks, with Honda shelving a $15-billion Ontario battery complex, BASF and Northvolt stalling projects in Québec, GM pausing BrightDrop van output in Ingersoll, and Ford delaying Oakville EV launches. Weakened demand, U.S. tariffs, and ballooning costs have raised doubts about whether Ottawa’s $50-billion bet on foreign-owned battery plants will pay off.

Infrastructure Ontario and North York General Hospital have invited four construction teams to submit proposals for a major redevelopment project that will add a new patient care tower to the hospital.

The tower, to be built through Infrastructure Ontario’s Alliance delivery model, will connect to the existing building and include underground parking. The facility is expected to feature up to 317 private patient rooms, expanding acute care capacity by about 100 beds. It will also house additional space for some of the hospital’s most critical programs and services.

The four prequalified bidders are:

• Building Beyond Alliance, led by Bird Design-Build Construction Inc. and Graham Design Builders LP, with HDR Architecture Associates Inc. as design prime.
• EllisDon Corporation, with Parkin Architects Limited as design partner.
• North York Healthcare Alliance, led by Pomerleau Inc. and Ledcor Construction Limited, with Montgomery Sisam Architects Inc. as design prime.
• PCL Constructors Canada Inc., with DIALOG Ontario Inc. as design partner.

The firms were shortlisted following a qualifications process launched in January. Their proposals will be evaluated by Infrastructure Ontario and North York General, with the top-ranked team entering into a Project Alliance Agreement, pending approval from the Ministry of Health.

Key Takeaways:

• The federal government is providing more than $326 million to British Columbia this year through the Canada Community-Building Fund to support local infrastructure projects.
• The funding will cover a wide range of needs, from essential infrastructure such as transit, water systems, and roads to recreational facilities like parks and sports fields.
• The Union of British Columbia Municipalities will administer the program in the province, giving local governments flexibility to invest in projects that respond to housing growth and community priorities.

The Whole Story:

The federal government is sending more than $326 million to British Columbia this year to support infrastructure projects ranging from public transit and water systems to community parks and sports facilities.

The funding, delivered through the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF), is intended to help municipalities improve essential infrastructure and support housing growth while also investing in recreational projects that make communities more livable.

In Surrey, for example, the program is helping pay for a new sports field, enhanced lighting and safety upgrades at Tamanawis Park. The city says the improvements will create a safer and more accessible space for families while encouraging active lifestyles.

Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson said the investments are part of Ottawa’s broader push to link housing growth with infrastructure upgrades.

“Building a strong Canada starts with building strong communities,” he said.

B.C. Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Christine Boyle added that the funding will help local governments respond to growth pressures.

“From better parks and sport courts to transit and water systems, people thrive when their communities have the infrastructure that makes life better for everyone,” she said.

The Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM), which administers the program in the province, said the fund has been crucial for local governments for more than two decades. UBCM president Trish Mandewo said the program’s flexibility allows municipalities to invest in critical projects while supporting long-term growth.

The CCBF is a permanent source of federal funding provided to provinces and territories, which distribute the money to municipalities. Ottawa says it will deliver $26.7 billion through the program between 2024 and 2034, including $2.5 billion to 3,700 communities across Canada in 2025-26.

Since 2015, the federal government has invested more than $29 billion nationwide through the program, including $3.1 billion in B.C.

Key Takeaways:

• Trillium Rail Partners has been selected to deliver the Stations, Rail and Systems package for the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension, covering seven stations, track, and systems work.
• The westward expansion of Line 5 is part of Ontario’s priority transit projects, but follows years of delays and cost overruns on the original Eglinton Crosstown, placing pressure on Metrolinx to avoid repeat setbacks.
• Once complete, the extension is expected to ease congestion, improve access in Toronto’s west end and Mississauga, support housing growth, and lay the groundwork for a future connection to Pearson Airport.

The Whole Story:

Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx have awarded Trillium Rail Partners the contract to deliver the Stations, Rail and Systems (SRS) package for the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension, a major transit project in the Greater Toronto Area.

The consortium — made up of Amico Major Projects Inc., Alberici Constructors Ltd., and Acciona Infrastructure Canada Inc., with WSP Canada Inc. as lead designer — has signed a Development and Master Construction Agreement with Metrolinx. The deal allows the group to begin early works while collaborating with the transit agency to finalize scope, risk allocation and pricing during the development phase.

The SRS package includes design and construction of seven stations, installation of rail and systems for the 9.2-kilometre extension, and work at Mount Dennis Station to connect the line with future Line 5 Eglinton LRT service.

The Crosstown West Extension is part of a larger effort to expand rapid transit across the GTA. The project extends Line 5 westward from Mount Dennis to Renforth Drive, with a planned connection to Pearson International Airport through a separate link under study.

The Ontario government first announced plans for the extension in 2019 as one of four priority transit projects in the region. Procurement has been divided into several packages, including tunnels, stations, and systems, with a mix of public-private partnerships and progressive design-build models used to attract bidders and manage risk.

The broader Eglinton Crosstown program has faced significant hurdles. The main Crosstown line — still not open after more than a decade of construction — has drawn criticism for delays, cost overruns, and complex contract structures. Those setbacks have heightened scrutiny on the extension, with Metrolinx pledging lessons learned would be applied to speed up delivery.

Challenges for the west extension include tunnelling through dense urban areas, minimizing disruption to communities and businesses, and coordinating with multiple overlapping contracts. Rising material costs and labour shortages in Ontario’s construction market have also added pressure.

When complete, the extension is expected to cut travel times, ease congestion, and improve transit access in Toronto’s west end and Mississauga. Metrolinx projects that tens of thousands of daily riders will benefit, with smoother connections to buses, regional rail, and eventually Pearson Airport.

The provincial government has framed the project as part of its plan to boost housing supply by linking new developments to rapid transit. Officials say the investment will also support thousands of construction jobs and strengthen long-term economic growth in the region.

The extension is being delivered through multiple contracts, with other procurement packages already underway. No firm completion date has been announced, though early construction activities have started.

Key Takeaways:

• The Goldboro gold mine is expected to create 735 jobs, add $2.1 billion to Nova Scotia’s GDP, and generate $528 million in tax revenue over 15 years.
• The project received its industrial approval after seven years of consultation, following an earlier environmental assessment approval in 2022.
• NexGold has signed benefit agreements with local and Mi’kmaw governments, and the mine will be subject to strict environmental and operational conditions under provincial oversight.

The Whole Story:

A new gold mine in Guysborough County has received industrial approval from the Nova Scotia government, clearing the way for a project expected to create hundreds of jobs and inject billions into the province’s economy.

The Goldboro gold mine, owned by NexGold Mining Corp., is projected to generate 735 jobs and contribute $2.1 billion to Nova Scotia’s gross domestic product over its 15-year lifespan. Work is set to begin in 2026 following seven years of consultation and study.

The province says the project will also provide $1.1 billion in direct and indirect household income and $528 million in tax revenue, including $274 million provincially, $44 million municipally and $209 million federally. NexGold has signed benefit agreements with both the Municipality of the District of Guysborough and the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs.

Industrial approvals set conditions for daily operations and environmental safeguards. The Department of Environment and Climate Change has created a specialized oversight team to monitor large industrial projects, including mining. The department says the Goldboro project will be subject to stringent terms and conditions covering construction, operation, closure and site reclamation.

Kevin Bullock, NexGold’s president and CEO, called the approval “a tremendous moment” and said the company is committed to operating “in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.” Guysborough Warden Paul Long said the mine would bring “significant socio-economic benefits” to the region through job creation, community agreements and new tax revenue.

The mining industry in Nova Scotia currently supports about 2,500 jobs with average wages of $100,000 a year. The Goldboro project has a planned 15-year timeline, including 11 years of operation and a remediation phase.

NexGold received environmental assessment approval for the project in June 2022.

Key Takeaways:

• The Vaughan Chamber of Commerce called the project “critical to supporting the movement of goods and unlocking future economic opportunities,” while the Ontario Road Builders’ Association said investments like Highway 413 are needed to reverse the mounting cost of congestion.
• The Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association and the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario said the highway would support demand for building materials and skilled trades jobs.
• Highway 413 is one of several large projects the province is pursuing as part of a $30-billion, decade-long investment in highways, bridges and roads, which also includes the Bradford Bypass and the twinning of the Garden City Skyway.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government has awarded the first two construction contracts for Highway 413, a major step in the province’s plan to build a new expressway across the northwestern Greater Toronto Area.

One contract was awarded to Fermar Paving for an embankment at the Highway 401 and Highway 407 interchange. The second one went to Pave-Al to resurface Highway 10 in Caledon, Ont.

Premier Doug Ford announced the contracts Tuesday in Caledon, where crews are beginning to resurface Highway 10 in preparation for a new bridge over the planned route. Work will also begin at the Highway 401/407 interchange, which will serve as the highway’s western terminus.

The 60-kilometre highway is slated to run from the 401/407 near Mississauga, Milton and Halton Hills to Highway 400 in Vaughan, with connections to Highways 410 and 427. The province says the route will save drivers up to 30 minutes per trip, support more than 6,000 jobs annually and add $1 billion a year to Ontario’s GDP during construction.

“Highway 413 is at the centre of our plan to get drivers in the GTA and across Ontario out of gridlock, and we’re getting it done,” Ford said. “In the face of U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty, we’re awarding critical construction contracts faster so we can keep Ontario’s economy going and keep thousands of workers on the job.”

Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said congestion costs Ontario up to $56 billion a year and Highway 413 will bring relief to one of the most heavily used corridors in North America.

The project has been strongly backed by several municipal leaders. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown said the highway will “create good quality jobs, attract new investment and ensure people and goods move more efficiently.” Caledon Mayor Annette Groves said the route will ease traffic pressure on local roads and heavy-truck traffic through her community.

Business groups also welcomed the announcement. The Vaughan Chamber of Commerce called the project “critical to supporting the movement of goods and unlocking future economic opportunities,” while the Ontario Road Builders’ Association said investments like Highway 413 are needed to reverse the mounting cost of congestion.

The Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association and the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario said the highway would support demand for building materials and skilled trades jobs.

Highway 413 is one of several large projects the province is pursuing as part of a $30-billion, decade-long investment in highways, bridges and roads, which also includes the Bradford Bypass and the twinning of the Garden City Skyway.

The government passed legislation last year aimed at expediting Highway 413 construction. According to a report by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis, the annual cost of gridlock in Ontario could reach $108 billion by 2044 if left unchecked.

The project has faced opposition from environmental groups and urban planners, who warn it could damage farmland and sensitive ecosystems while encouraging suburban sprawl. The province says those concerns are being addressed through its planning process.

Key Takeaways:

• Canada will add about 2.5 million housing units by 2035, but an additional 690,000 units are needed to close the national housing gap — requiring 3.2 million completions in total.
• To meet that target, the country would need to build an average of 290,000 homes per year, surpassing the record 276,000 completions of 2024 for 11 consecutive years.
• Suppressed household formation — people delaying moving out due to affordability challenges — is projected to reach 714,000 by 2035, underscoring the depth of unmet demand in the housing market.

The Whole Story:

Canada will fall well short of the housing it needs by 2035, according to a new report from the Parliamentary Budget Officer.

The analysis projects that while 2.5 million new homes are expected to be built over the next decade, an additional 690,000 units would be required to close the housing gap and restore vacancy rates to historical norms.

That means Canada would need 3.2 million net new homes by 2035 — an average of 290,000 completions annually. Meeting that target would require builders to surpass the record 276,000 completions of 2024 every year for 11 straight years.

“Based on our estimates, the projected pace of construction will not be sufficient to eliminate the housing gap,” the report stated.

The PBO defines the gap as the number of homes required to meet demographic demand, account for “suppressed” household formation — people delaying moving out due to affordability — and return the vacancy rate to its 2000–2019 average of 6.4 per cent. The office projects that suppressed household formation alone will reach 714,000 by 2035.

The report comes as Ottawa faces mounting pressure over the housing crisis. Immigration policy changes introduced last year will slow household formation, but even with completions running above average, supply will not keep up with underlying demand.

The findings also highlight differences with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., which earlier this year pegged the housing shortfall at 2.6 million units. CMHC’s calculation is tied to affordability goals, while the PBO’s is based on balancing supply and demand through vacancy rates.

The budget officer cautioned that simply building more homes will not be enough to address affordability pressures everywhere. Regional disparities, income growth, interest rates and the types of homes built will also play a role in determining how effective new supply is at easing the crisis.

Key Takeaways:

• Alberta Utilities Commission grants approval of the Need Assessment Application for the Yellowhead Pipeline Project
• Progressing this strategic energy infrastructure represents a key milestone in ATCO’s growth strategy across energy, housing and defence.
• The project is expected to create 2,000 direct jobs and supports an average of 12,000 jobs annually through related downstream investments. Once operational, the downstream investments are estimated to contribute $3.9 billion* annually to Alberta’s GDP.

The Whole Story:

ATCO Ltd. says its utilities subsidiary has cleared a major hurdle in advancing the proposed Yellowhead Pipeline Project in Alberta.

The company announced Monday that the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) has approved Canadian Utilities Ltd.’s Need Assessment Application, the first of two major regulatory approvals required for the 230-kilometre natural gas pipeline.

The project would run from the Peers area to Fort Saskatchewan, delivering more than 1,200 terajoules — or about 1.1 billion cubic feet — of natural gas per day. ATCO says the expansion is intended to bolster Alberta’s transmission system and support future economic and population growth.

“This Alberta Utilities Commission decision affirms the strategic importance of the Yellowhead Pipeline in supporting Alberta’s long-term energy resilience,” said ATCO chair and CEO Nancy Southern in a statement.

Canadian Utilities plans to submit a separate facilities application later this year to seek AUC approval for construction and operation of the infrastructure. If approved, construction is expected to begin in 2026.

ATCO, which has about 21,000 employees worldwide and assets of $27 billion, operates across energy, housing, security and transportation sectors. Its Canadian Utilities subsidiary delivers electricity and natural gas transmission and distribution through ATCO Energy Systems.

Key Takeaways:

• PowerCo Canada has awarded major construction contracts to Steelcon Group of Companies and Magil Construction Canada for its $7-billion St. Thomas gigafactory, the largest electric vehicle battery plant in Canada.
• The project will generate thousands of jobs, with Steelcon employing more than 500 Canadian workers and Magil undertaking one of the largest foundation packages ever awarded in Southwestern Ontario.
• Once complete, the facility will produce enough battery cells to power up to one million electric vehicles annually, marking a cornerstone in Volkswagen’s North American battery strategy.

The Whole Story:

PowerCo Canada has awarded two major construction contracts for its $7-billion electric vehicle battery plant in St. Thomas, Ont., a project billed as the largest of its kind in Canada.

The Volkswagen subsidiary said Thursday that Steelcon Group of Companies will handle structural steel work, while Magil Construction Canada Inc. has secured the foundations contract. The work includes one of the biggest foundation packages ever awarded in Southwestern Ontario, covering three buildings across 850,000 square feet.

“We are proud to partner with PowerCo Canada to build the St. Thomas gigafactory, a project that embodies the future of Canadian industry,” said Danny Bianco, President at Steelcon Group of Companies. “Our team of skilled Canadian fabricators is ready to deliver, and we are especially proud to contribute to a project that will support significant local employment and drive economic growth here in Ontario.”  

PowerCo says the first concrete pour will involve more than 32,500 cubic metres of concrete and 500,000 square feet of formwork, with physical construction set to begin in the coming weeks. The factory will eventually produce enough battery cells to power up to one million electric vehicles a year.

“Magil Construction has a nearly 80-year legacy of building with vision, and we are thrilled to bring that expertise to such a landmark project in St. Thomas,” said Paul Henke, President at Magil Construction Canada Inc. “Our commitment to working with local trades and suppliers means this project will be built by the community, for the community, laying the groundwork for economic prosperity and job creation across Southwestern Ontario.”

Frank Blome, CEO of PowerCo SE, called the facility a “cornerstone” in building a global battery business in both Europe and North America, while St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston said the project will be a “game-changer” for the region.

The company says the development will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, including construction roles, supplier opportunities and local business growth. Steelcon plans to employ more than 500 Canadian workers, with 30 from the London and Southwestern Ontario region.

PowerCo Canada was established in 2022 to oversee Volkswagen’s battery operations in North America. The St. Thomas facility will be its third and largest project worldwide.

Canada’s skyline is being shaped by some of the world’s most inventive architectural minds, and in this video, we’re highlighting seven firms that are redefining the country’s built environment. From sustainable mass timber innovations to culturally grounded Indigenous design, these studios are creating spaces that are not only visually striking but socially and environmentally meaningful. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking projects and award-winning work of Michael Green Architecture, 5468796 Architecture, RDH Architects, Revery Architecture, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Two Row Architect, and Formline Architecture.

Transcript:

“Architecture is hard. Luckily for Canada, there are much better minds than mine who are helping shape our skylines. I’ll keep practicing, but in the meantime, let’s check out 7 amazing firms creating Canada’s architectural marvels. 

Michael Green Architecture (MGA) is a Vancouver-based firm led by Michael Green and Natalie Telewiak, internationally recognized for its expertise in mass timber and sustainable design. The firm’s groundbreaking projects include the T3 Minneapolis office building, Ronald McDonald House in B.C., and leading Canada’s effort to create 50 standardized housing designs. MGA is a global leader in tall wood innovation, and its work has earned over 50 international awards.

5468796 Architecture, founded in Winnipeg in 2007, is known for its inventive, often sculptural approaches to multi-family housing. Signature projects include the OMS Stage, Bloc_10, and the award-winning YouCube development. Their adaptive reuse of a 1906 pumping station into the Pumphouse residential project exemplifies their bold design ethos. The firm has received several Governor General’s Medals in Architecture and was a finalist for the prestigious Mies Crown Hall Americas Prize.

RDH Architects is a Toronto-based studio with roots dating back to 1919. Once a traditional practice, it has transformed into a modern design powerhouse known for civic buildings such as the Waterdown Library and Civic Centre, Mount Dennis Library, and North York Central Library. RDH has won more than 70 major design awards, including four Governor General’s Medals and multiple OAA Design Excellence Awards.

Revery Architecture, formerly Bing Thom Architects, is a Vancouver-based global firm acclaimed for dramatic, community-centered cultural spaces. Their standout works include the Xiqu Centre for Chinese Opera in Hong Kong, Surrey City Centre Library, and the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts. With a reputation for blending form, function, and social purpose, Revery has earned the RAIC Gold Medal and numerous international accolades, continuing Bing Thom’s legacy of architectural storytelling.

Hariri Pontarini Architects is a Toronto-based studio founded in 1994 by Siamak Hariri and David Pontarini, known for designing emotionally resonant spaces across sectors. The firm’s global landmark Bahá’í Temple of South America received the RAIC International Prize, while Canadian projects like the Richard Ivey Building at Western University and the McKinsey & Company Toronto Office showcase its elegant, humanist approach. 

Two Row Architect is a 100% Indigenous-owned firm based in Six Nations of the Grand River, Ontario, established in 1992. Led by Brian Porter, the firm is dedicated to designing spaces rooted in Indigenous knowledge and traditions, with projects such as the Seneca College Indigenous Centre, Mohawk College’s Indigenous Gathering Place, and Cayuga Grand Vista. Its culturally attuned practice has earned national recognition for advancing Indigenous design in Canada’s built environment.

Formline Architecture, founded by Alfred Waugh in West Vancouver, is known for environmentally conscious, culturally grounded architecture that elevates Indigenous narratives. Signature projects include the Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre at UBC and the Snuh-NAY-mow-wuh First Nation Youth Centre. With a focus on expressive wood construction and sustainable design, Formline has received numerous honors including an RAIC Governor General’s Medal and the Wood Design Award for Institutional Wood Design.

All that research has inspired me to give my masterpiece another go. Perfect! See you all next time.”

Canada’s military is in the middle of one of its largest infrastructure and fleet renewal efforts in decades. Backed by tens of billions in federal funding, the Department of National Defence is rolling out a wave of projects that range from new Arctic facilities and modernized bases to some of the largest naval vessels ever built in the country.

For the construction sector, these initiatives represent more than just defence policy—they mean complex builds, long-term contracts, and opportunities to deliver everything from advanced shipbuilding to housing for military families. Here’s a look at the biggest projects currently reshaping Canada’s defence landscape.

CFB Trenton – Strategic Tanker Transport Capability (STTC) Upgrades

A major $850 million upgrade is underway at CFB Trenton to prepare it as the Eastern Main Operating Base for Canada’s new CC-330 Husky fleet. Announced in July, the project will expand air-to-air refuelling, strategic airlift, and aeromedical operations, making Trenton one of the most critical hubs in the Royal Canadian Air Force network. The first phase of construction, expected to continue into 2026, includes resurfacing the existing runway, aprons and taxiways. Preparations are also underway for the construction of a new two-bay hangar, training facility, fuel depot, and ramp extension. All required construction for the project, including fuelling and defuelling infrastructure, training facilities, and cargo and passenger processing infrastructure is anticipated to be completed by 2033.

Canadian Forces Housing Agency Residential Housing Units

To address chronic housing shortages for military families, DND is constructing 668 new Residential Housing Units (RHUs) and renovating more than 600 existing ones across multiple bases nationwide. Announced in January, the program will roll out over the next five years, beginning with new housing projects at CFB Borden. The new RHUs will include a mix of housing types, such as multi-unit buildings, row houses and semi-detached units. The work is part of a broader $1.4 billion investment over 20 years for housing projects to support the men and women of the CAF.

NORAD Modernization Program

Canada has committed $38.6 billion over 20 years to modernize the North American Aerospace Defense Command. The program will overhaul radar, communications, and surveillance systems across the Arctic and northern regions, representing the most significant investment in continental defence in decades. The plan is focused on five interconnected priorities: upgrading surveillance systems to detect threats earlier and with greater precision; enhancing technology to communicate threats swiftly to decision-makers; modernizing air weapons systems; investing in infrastructure and support capabilities to sustain a strong military presence nationwide; and future-proofing continental defence through continued investments in science and technology.

River-Class Destroyers

As part of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, work is underway on up to 15 new River-class destroyers. The project, officially valued at around $60 billion but projected by independent analysts to potentially cost much more, represents the largest fleet renewal in Canadian history. The River-class ships will replace the Navy’s retired destroyers and aging Halifax-class frigates with advanced multi-role warships equipped for air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and modern combat operations, ensuring the Royal Canadian Navy can meet evolving global and domestic demands.

Protecteur-Class Joint Support Ships

Seaspan Shipyards in Vancouver is constructing two Protecteur-class replenishment vessels to replace the retired auxiliary oiler fleet. These 173-metre, 20,000-tonne ships are the largest naval vessels ever built in Canada on the West Coast, designed to carry fuel, ammunition, spare parts, and other supplies to extend the range and endurance of the Royal Canadian Navy. They will also feature hospital facilities and the ability to support disaster relief and humanitarian missions. The first vessel, HMCS Protecteur, is scheduled for delivery in late 2025, followed by HMCS Preserver in 2027.

Polar Icebreaker Project

Canada is building two new heavy polar icebreakers—one at Seaspan Shipyards in Vancouver and another at Davie Shipbuilding in Quebec—in a program valued between $7.5 billion and $8.5 billion. The first vessel, the CCGS Arpatuuq, is under construction at Seaspan and is expected to be delivered by 2030. The second, the CCGS Imnaryuaq, is being built by Chantier Davie Canada Inc. in collaboration with Helsinki Shipyard and is slated for delivery by 2032. These vessels will significantly enhance Canada’s Arctic operational capacity, supporting sovereignty, scientific research, and year-round maritime navigation. The project is part of the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact), a trilateral partnership between Canada, Finland, and the United States aimed at strengthening Arctic capabilities amid increasing geopolitical tensions and climate change impacts in the region.

Nanisivik Naval Facility

Located in Nunavut, the Nanisivik Naval Facility has been under development for over a decade and is expected to finally become operational in 2025. Designed as a refuelling and logistics hub for Arctic patrols, the project strengthens Canada’s ability to operate in the High North.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario is replacing its fixed cost-per-bed funding model with a new percentage-based Capital Funding Program that will cover up to 85 per cent of eligible construction costs, with funding levels tailored to regional conditions.
• The program is intended to speed up long-term care construction across the province, particularly in areas such as the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area and northern Ontario that face higher costs and labour shortages.
• The first major project under the program is the redevelopment of Maxville Manor in Eastern Ontario, which will expand to 160 beds with modern amenities and is expected to open in 2027.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government is introducing a new funding program aimed at building long-term care homes more quickly in regions facing labour shortages, high land costs and supply chain challenges.

The Capital Funding Program (CFP) replaces the province’s cost-per-bed funding model with a flexible system that will cover up to 85% of eligible construction costs, depending on location. Not-for-profit operators will receive money earlier in the process, while hospitals and Indigenous operators will be able to access their entire allocation during construction.

Long-Term Care Minister Natalia Kusendova-Bashta said the shift is designed to address regional cost pressures and help Ontario meet its goal of adding 58,000 new and upgraded long-term care beds.

“As Ontario ages, we need to build long-term care homes faster, smarter and in the places that need them most,” she said.

The program’s rollout coincides with the redevelopment of Maxville Manor, a long-term care home in Eastern Ontario that is renovating 122 existing beds and adding 38 new ones. The $160-bed facility will include new amenities such as a dining room, spa, multipurpose room and outdoor spaces, and is expected to open to residents in 2027.

As of July, the province said 148 projects representing more than 24,000 new and redeveloped beds are either completed, under construction or approved. The government added that nearly four hours of direct daily care per resident is now being provided across Ontario, a benchmark it set under its Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021.

MPP Stéphane Sarrazin, whose Glengarry—Prescott—Russell riding includes Maxville Manor, called the project “an important investment in the health and well-being of our seniors,” while local officials described it as critical to meeting growing demand for long-term care in the region.

Key Takeaways:

• The City of Calgary has launched a $30 million program, Maa’too’maa’taapii Aoko’iyii’piaya, to support Indigenous-led non-market housing, with the goal of creating 150 to 350 new units.
• Indigenous people represent just 3% of Calgary’s population but account for over 41% of those experiencing homelessness, highlighting the urgent need for culturally safe and affordable housing options.
• The program, developed in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, provides both planning grants and construction funding, ensuring housing is designed, delivered, and owned by Indigenous communities themselves.

The Whole Story:

The City of Calgary has launched a $30 million program to support Indigenous-led housing projects, marking its first initiative built on the principle of “For Indigenous, By Indigenous.”

The program, called Maa’too’maa’taapii Aoko’iyii’piaya — which means “Indigenous First Nation Housing” in Blackfoot — is expected to create between 150 and 350 new non-market housing units. It was developed in collaboration with the Housing Solutions Elders Advisory Committee and officially launches Aug. 25.

City officials said the initiative is designed to address systemic barriers Indigenous communities face in accessing housing, land, and capital. Indigenous people account for just 3% of Calgary’s population but make up more than 41% of those experiencing homelessness, according to city data.

“Through this program, The City is taking practical, resourced action, placing trust, funding, and decision-making power into the hands of Indigenous communities themselves,” Mayor Jyoti Gondek said in a statement.

The funding will be distributed through two streams: up to $150,000 over two years for engagement and planning activities, and contributions covering up to 40% of capital costs for construction of Indigenous-led housing developments.

City Chief Housing Officer Reid Hendry said the program aims not only to increase housing supply but also to ensure it is “designed, delivered, and owned by and for Indigenous Peoples, ultimately redefining what housing can look like when it is rooted in Indigenous knowledge, values, and self-determination.”

More than 3,800 Indigenous households in Calgary are considered in housing need, with many earning less than $20,000 annually and requiring rent below $500 per month to be affordable. Community leaders said the program responds to urgent needs while promoting culturally safe housing.

“Our people need housing that is affordable, places where we can be safe, where families can stay together, and where we can heal,” said Jackie Bromley of the Kainai Nation, a member of the Elders Advisory Committee who helped gift the program’s name in ceremony.

The city said the program aligns with its Indigenous Policy, housing strategy for 2024–2030, and other frameworks aimed at reducing inequities through Indigenous-led solutions.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario has approved official plan changes for 120 Toronto transit stations, paving the way for 1.5 million new homes over the next 25 years.
• The initiative is tied to historic transit investments, including a $70-billion subway expansion, and is designed to reduce gridlock and connect more residents to rapid transit.
• The plan will also activate Toronto’s inclusionary zoning framework, requiring affordable housing in certain new developments near protected transit areas.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government has approved sweeping changes to Toronto’s official plan that will allow taller and denser housing developments near 120 transit stations across the city.

The amendments, announced Monday, are expected to enable the construction of more than 1.5 million homes over the next 25 years. Provincial officials say the changes will also create jobs, attract investment and help ease gridlock by encouraging more people to live near public transit.

“I commend Mayor Chow for partnering with us on a bold, shared vision, one where more people can work, live and raise their families right here in Toronto,” said Rob Flack, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Mayor Olivia Chow welcomed the move, saying it will help address Toronto’s housing crisis by cutting red tape and building new homes near transit. “By building near transit stations, we are providing new residents with convenient and reliable transit options – ultimately getting drivers off the road, reducing gridlock and getting Toronto moving,” she said.

The province says the plan aligns with Ontario’s $200-billion investment in transit and infrastructure, including $70 billion earmarked for the largest subway expansion in Canadian history. In June, the City of Toronto received $67.2 million from Ontario’s Building Faster Fund, which rewards municipalities that hit at least 80 per cent of their provincially set housing targets.

Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the initiative will put more residents within walking distance of rapid transit, helping to connect neighbourhoods and strengthen the city’s economy.

The government added that the official plan changes will also trigger the rollout of Toronto’s inclusionary zoning framework, requiring affordable housing as part of certain new residential developments near major transit hubs.

Key Takeaways:

• Windsor Regional Hospital has selected EllisDon as construction manager for the enabling works of the new Fancsy Family Hospital, with the first phase expected to take about three years.
• Phase one will include an administration centre, a multi-level parking garage with covered access to the hospital, and essential site infrastructure to support future construction.
• Major construction on the state-of-the-art acute care facility is expected to begin by early 2026, following a separate tender process later this year.

The Whole Story:

Windsor Regional Hospital has selected EllisDon as construction manager for the enabling works of the newly named Fancsy Family Hospital Project, marking what officials call a major step forward in transforming health care in the region.

The first phase of work will include an administration centre with an auditorium, simulation training centre, classrooms and office space for support staff; a multi-level parking garage with covered access to the new hospital; and essential site infrastructure for future phases of the build.

Hospital officials say enabling works will take about three years to complete, with major construction on the state-of-the-art acute care facility expected to begin by early 2026.

“This announcement is another exciting and tangible step toward delivering the new state-of-the-art hospital our community has been waiting for,” said Karen Riddell, the hospital’s acting president and CEO. “By selecting EllisDon, we are partnering with a team that has a proven track record in delivering complex healthcare infrastructure.”

EllisDon was awarded the contract through a competitive procurement process. The company has previously worked on major hospital projects including Brampton Civic Hospital, Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, and is currently involved in the South Niagara Project and the Peter Gilgan Mississauga Hospital.

“It is a privilege for EllisDon to lead the first phase of the new Windsor Regional Hospital project,” said Randy Reymer, a senior vice-president with the firm. “Our team is inspired by Windsor Regional Hospital’s vision and grateful for the trust placed in us.”

Diamond Schmitt Architects, selected earlier this year to lead planning and design for the enabling works, has been working with hospital staff to create spaces that promote collaboration and innovation.

Ontario Health Minister Sylvia Jones said the project reflects the province’s “historic investments” in health care, promising the new hospital will make it “faster and easier” for Windsor and Essex County residents to access world-class care.

A separate tender for the hospital’s main build is expected later this year, in line with Infrastructure Ontario’s project schedule.

Pipelines are among the most critical components of Canada’s energy and industrial infrastructure. Spanning thousands of kilometres, these systems transport crude oil, natural gas, refined fuels, and increasingly, carbon dioxide and hydrogen — connecting resource basins to refineries, ports, manufacturing hubs, and domestic markets.

Behind every kilometre of pipeline laid is a complex, capital-intensive process that requires highly specialized construction contractors. These firms not only deliver the physical infrastructure but also help enable economic activity that supports entire regions.

Surerus

Surerus is a leading Canadian pipeline contractor, particularly active in Western Canada. Operating since 1969, it has installed over 8,000 km of pipeline across challenging terrain, including large-diameter installations and integrity programs. Recently, Surerus (as Surerus Murphy) was named the prime contractor for the Cedar Link Project, which leverages existing Coastal GasLink infrastructure to support the Cedar LNG project.

O.J. Pipelines

O.J. Pipelines focuses on large-diameter, cross-country transmission pipelines and has been active in Canada since 1989. The company is known for executing technically complex builds under extreme weather and terrain conditions. O.J. Pipelines has contributed to key national projects such as the Trans Mountain Expansion and has worked with major pipeline operators including TC Energy and Enbridge. It operates as part of the Canam Group and also provides specialized welding and coating services.

Michels Canada

Michels Canada offers a wide range of pipeline construction services, including trenchless installations (horizontal directional drilling and Direct Pipe), as well as open-cut pipeline builds. They have been active in both traditional oil and gas pipelines and emerging sectors such as carbon capture and hydrogen infrastructure. Michels was a key contractor on the Coastal GasLink project and has also worked on the Trans Mountain Expansion. As of 2025, the company continues to expand its presence in clean energy transmission projects.

Ledcor

Ledcor is a diversified construction company with extensive experience in pipeline construction, particularly in oil and gas sectors. The company provides pipeline installation, maintenance, and facility construction services. It has completed projects for clients such as Suncor, TransCanada (now TC Energy), and Enbridge. Ledcor was involved in several oil sands infrastructure expansions and continues to work on pipeline and energy transition projects across Alberta and British Columbia.

Bantrel

Bantrel is an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firm with significant experience in heavy industrial infrastructure. The company has supported pipeline projects as part of broader energy facility construction, including oil sands extraction and processing. While not a pure-play pipeline constructor, Bantrel plays a major role in integrated project delivery, especially in early-phase engineering and execution planning. The firm has been involved in carbon capture, hydrogen, and petrochemical infrastructure developments as of 2025.

Aecon Group

Aecon is one of Canada’s largest publicly traded infrastructure companies and operates across energy, utilities, transportation, and industrial sectors. The company’s Aecon Industrial division handles oil, gas, and utility pipeline systems, including pipeline fabrication and facility tie-ins. While Aecon is more active in civil and energy infrastructure, it has contributed to several utility corridor and station upgrade projects connected to broader pipeline systems. In 2024–25, Aecon has increased its involvement in energy transition projects, including hydrogen-ready infrastructure and district energy systems.

AtkinsRéalis

AtkinsRéalis provides engineering and project management services across global infrastructure markets, including energy and mining. The company has played a role in pipeline-related work through front-end engineering design (FEED) and EPCM (engineering, procurement, and construction management) services. While not a direct pipeline construction firm, AtkinsRéalis has contributed to environmental assessment, route planning, and regulatory compliance for energy infrastructure in Canada. In 2025, the company is increasing its presence in low-carbon infrastructure, including support for carbon pipelines and hydrogen networks.