The project allows Centerm to handle 60% more containers by increasing the terminal footprint by 15%.
Work is ongoing to optimize operations to deliver the full capacity increase at Centerm. The full capacity gains are expected to be realized later this year.
Canada’s west coast marine container terminals are forecast to hit capacity by the mid-to-late-2020s, following a decade of 5% average annual growth from 2011 to 2021.
The Whole Story:
Construction on the Centerm Expansion Project at the Port of Vancouver is now complete.
The expansion project—delivered in partnership with terminal operator DP World—focused on innovative ways to make best use of the limited trade-enabling industrial land available and allow Centerm to handle 60% more containers by increasing the terminal footprint by 15%. Work completed includes expanding the terminal footprint to the west and east, reconfiguring and expanding the container yard, building state-of-art truck gates, expanding the intermodal yard, building a new operations facility, and marine habitat improvements.
“We’re incredibly proud of our work leading this award-winning terminal expansion, which adds to our proven track record of delivering top-tier sustainable infrastructure to support Canada’s growing trade,” said Cliff Stewart, vice president of infrastructure at the port authority, the federal agency mandated to enable Canada’s trade through the Port of Vancouver. “The expanded Centerm terminal is an important addition to the Port of Vancouver as we continue to work to deliver the container capacity Canadians and Canadian businesses need to thrive now and into the future.”
Optimization work will continue
While construction of the terminal improvements is complete, work is ongoing to optimize operations to deliver the full capacity increase at Centerm. The full capacity gains are expected to be realized later this year, increasing the terminal’s container handling capacity by two-thirds from 900,000 20-foot equivalent unit containers (TEUs) to 1.5 million TEUs.
“The completion of the Centerm Expansion Project marks a new chapter in the 100-year history of our DP World operations in Vancouver,” said Maksim Mihic, chief executive and general manager, DP World (Canada) Inc. “By using new technologies and reconfiguring the terminal–we have been able to increase throughput capacity by 60% with only a 15% increase in the terminal footprint. This project is a great example of how we are innovating to create the sustainable trade infrastructure of tomorrow. We are providing access to new market opportunities for Canadian businesses while making the global supply chain more resilient. I want to thank everyone involved in this project who worked tirelessly to get us to today.”
Improving trade infrastructure
According to the port, the Centerm terminal expansion will play an important role meeting demand in the short-term.
In line with its public interest mandate, the port authority is leading several projects to enable Canada’s growing trade. This includes:
Partnering with industry and government on projects to reduce bottlenecks and enhance road and rail links to the port while delivering community benefits.
Leading digitization and optimization initiatives to help drive efficiency and capacity across the port, including the Active Vessel Traffic Management and West Coast Supply Chain Visibility programs.
Planning to support Canada’s forecast growth in container trade and long-term needs via the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project.
Canada’s west coast marine container terminals are forecast to hit capacity by the mid- to late-2020s, following a decade of 5% average annual growth from 2011 to 2021.
Growing responsibly
“Trade through the Port of Vancouver is growing and we’re working to ensure infrastructure projects are designed and delivered in a way that protects the environment and benefits local communities while enhancing the safe movement of cargo through the region,” said Stewart.
On the Centerm Expansion Project, this includes environmental protections like reducing greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating wait times for vehicles at train crossings, adding capacity for container ships to connect to electrical shore power, upgrading some yard cranes from diesel to electric, and building to LEED and Envision certification sustainability standards.
A map gives a detailed layout of the Centerm project. – Port of Vancouver
Public consultation on the project was based on two-way communication and open dialogue with stakeholders, the public and Indigenous groups during planning and construction. As part of the port authority’s community investment for the project, a $500,000 Centerm Community Fund was developed to help thank the local community for its patience during construction. The fund was part of a $2 million contribution to community initiatives in East Vancouver from the port authority and Centerm terminal operator DP World, and was distributed between 2019 and 2021 to 41 organizations working to enrich the lives of those living and working in the area as well as supporting local conservation efforts.
Key Takeaways:
Fluor has been awarded a contract to do FEED and EPCM work on the world’s first net-zero carbon emissions ethylene cracker and derivatives complex.
The Fort Saskatchewan, Alta. facility will convert cracker off-gas into hydrogen as a clean fuel to be used in the production process.
Dow selected the Fort Saskatchewan site as the region offers a highly competitive energy and feedstocks position. The region also features access to available third-party CO2 infrastructure.
The Whole Story:
Fluor has been awarded a reimbursable contract by Dow for work on the world’s first net-zero carbon emissions ethylene cracker and derivatives complex.
Flour will provide front-end engineering and design (FEED) and engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) services for the project in Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.
Fluor stated that it will book the initial FEED award in the first quarter and anticipates the additional EPCM scope will be awarded throughout 2023 pending a final investment decision by Dow’s board of directors.
“We commend Dow for its leadership and commitment to decarbonize its global footprint, and we are pleased to work together with the company on this important project,” said Jim Breuer, group president, Fluor’s energy solutions business. “Fluor’s expertise in energy transition is helping clients across industries reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency.”
The project is still subject to approval by Dow’s board of directors and various regulatory agencies. According to Dow, the project would decarbonize approximately 20 percent of its global ethylene capacity while growing its polyethylene supply by about 15 percent and supporting approximately $1 billion of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) growth across the value chain by 2030.
The additional project scope to be awarded in 2023 includes integrated project management team services for the entire Fort Saskatchewan Path2Zero program and EPCM services for the ethane cracker and associated utilities, power and infrastructure.
The production process at Fort Saskatchewan will convert cracker off-gas into hydrogen as a clean fuel to be used in the production process, and carbon dioxide that would be captured onsite to be transported and stored by adjacent third-party CO2 infrastructure.
The products produced at the site will be used across the globe to help deliver low- to zero-carbon emissions solutions. Dow stated it is focused on serving high growth markets that support human well-being, drive industrial efficiency, and enable the world’s energy transition.
Dow added that it selected the Fort Saskatchewan site as the region offers a highly competitive energy and feedstocks position. The region also features access to available third-party CO2 infrastructure.
Key Takeaways:
Albion Building Consultant Inc. lost its licence to build and sell homes after failing to enrol homes in a warranty program.
It is the most severe action that the Home Construction Regulatory Authority can take against a licensed builder.
The company now owes $206,250 in fines.
The Whole Story:
A homebuilder in Ontario has had its licence to construct and sell homes stripped by regulators after failing to enrol new homes with warranty coverage.
Albion Building Consultant Inc. received the punishment from the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA). It is the most severe action that the group can take against a licensed builder.
The HCRA explained that revoked the builder’s licence following Albion’s prior convictions in the Ontario Court of Justice for failing to enrol new homes in the warranty program with Tarion – a not-for-profit consumer protection organisation established by the Ontario government to administer the province’s new home warranty program. The regulator stated the builder has a long history of non-compliance with provincial rules and laws.
“Enrolling a home is essential to ensuring consumer protection,” said Wendy Moir, the HCRA’s CEO and registrar. “Licensed home builders must act in accordance with the law, and with integrity and honesty – or face serious consequences.”
Last year, Albion Building Consultant Inc. was convicted of failing to enrol new homes in the warranty program with Tarion. The convictions stemmed from an investigation concluding that Albion had built 11 new homes without first enrolling them with Tarion. Albion was sentenced to a fine of $15,000 plus a $3,750 victim fine surcharge for each of the 11 counts, bringing the total fine amount to $206,250.
In addition, Albion’s managing director Zamal Hossain was convicted of acting as an officer and director of a company that failed to enrol new homes. Company co-founder Farida Haque was convicted of acting as a vendor of a new home without being licensed.
The HCRA noted that even prior to these convictions, Albion and its officers and directors had a history of non-compliance for building homes without registering as a builder and for failing to enrol new homes in the Greater Toronto Area, including convictions in 2016 and 2019.
In light of these convictions, the HCRA notified Albion, through a formal notice of proposal, of its intention to deny Albion’s licence renewal application. Albion unsuccessfully appealed this decision at the Licence Appeal Tribunal in January.
The HCRA added that Albion may continue to complete homes that were already under construction – upon completion of these homes Albion’s licence will be immediately revoked. The Ontario Builder Directory will subsequently be updated to officially recognize Albion’s licence status as revoked.
“Revocation is the most severe consequence for a licensee,” said Moir. “Following the completion of the remaining homes, Albion will no longer be able to do business, and we sincerely hope this is a rare occurrence – but we will use it to send a clear message to the industry and ensure that consumers are protected.”
*Editor’s Note: SiteNews has reached out to Albion for comment and will update the story accordingly.
Key Takeaways:
SNC-Lavalin has been awarded a five-year contract to provide project and construction management consultancy services for THE LINE.
THE LINE is a linear smart city under construction in Saudi Arabia in Neom, Tabuk Province, which is designed to have no cars, streets or carbon emissions.
Project officials say the first residents could be moving in by 2030.
The Whole Story:
Montreal-based SNC-Lavalin will be working on a massive, linear city under construction in Saudi Arabia.
The Canadian engineering and construction firm has been appointed as a delivery partner organization for THE LINE at NEOM. According to SNC, the enormous project represents a civilizational revolution that will have no roads, cars or carbon emissions.
The linear city development is designed to be 170-kilometres long and 200 metres wide on a 34-square-kilometre site. The design also features 100 per cent clean energy to accommodate nine million residents. The project also plans to ensure that 95% of the surrounding NEOM region will be protected for conservation.
SNC-Lavalin has been awarded a five-year contract under a framework agreement for consultancy services on THE LINE. In collaboration with NEOM and other delivery partner organizations, SNC-Lavalin will provide project and construction management consultancy services for the design, procurement, construction, testing and commissioning of the project, together with the management of the critical interfaces that the linear city shares with adjacent NEOM projects and logistics. The firm stated that the project has adopted a highly collaborative delivery model in response to its scale, complexity, supply chain and requirements for innovation.
“With a vision for engineering a sustainable society, SNC-Lavalin is committed to helping governments and the private sector meet their Net Zero targets by providing our global expertise and world-class sustainability solutions,” said Ian L. Edwards, president and CEO of SNC-Lavalin. “THE LINE is a central component of NEOM, which itself is one of the largest projects under Saudi Vision 2030. The linear, cognitive city will play a significant role in helping NEOM accelerate the Kingdom’s economic diversification agenda by redefining the urban living experience, boosting tourism, and creating job opportunities for the people of Saudi Arabia.”
The project’s approach to city design includes layering city functions vertically while giving people the possibility of moving seamlessly in three dimensions to access them. Officials called this concept “zero gravity urbanism”. The development’s infrastructure will be embedded with sustainable, smart technology containing essential utilities and transportation services, generating car-free communities and public realms.
“THE LINE is a truly ground-breaking, world-first project and we are proud to have the opportunity to bring our global engineering, digital and Net Zero expertise to help create a lasting legacy for the Kingdom and its people,” said Philip Hoare, president, engineering services, UK and Europe, Middle East, India and Canada, SNC-Lavalin. “As a delivery partner organization, we will work closely with NEOM and our partners to seamlessly connect people, data and technology to drive innovation, value, efficiency and certainty on the project. Our combined intent is to radically transform the way major infrastructure projects are delivered and THE LINE, with its vision and complexity, provides a great opportunity to demonstrate what our industry can achieve.”
Globally, SNC-Lavalin has developed the Engineering Net Zero (ENZ) program, which focuses on leading the engineering industry to achieve Net Zero Carbon as rapidly as possible, by helping clients manage climate risks and build climate resilience.
SNC-Lavalin’s presence in the region has grown. It has regional offices in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar, supporting clients in buildings and places, transportation, energy and water sectors. Some of the company’s key projects in Saudi Arabia include Diriyah Gate, Six Flags Qiddiya theme park, Riyadh Metro, and King Abdulaziz International Airport.
Key Takeaways:
Metro Vancouver mayors say they need $250 million in emergency funding from Ottawa to help the region’s transit systems cope with growing ridership.
They also want to accelerate the delivery of the Permanent Transit fund by two years and Permanently double the Canada Community-Building Fund.
The mayors want to create a national commission with provinces, transit agencies and local governments to develop a new funding model for public transit.
The population of Metro Vancouver is estimated to increase by more than one million people by 2050.
The Whole Story:
Metro Vancouver mayors are asking the federal government for $250 million to help the region’s transit system sustain and expand services in the face of increasing ridership and ongoing post-pandemic financial challenges.
The TransLink Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation has made a formal request to the Federal Government to renew its partnership with the region and the province.
In a pre-budget submission to the Minister of Finance, the Mayors’ Council is specifically calling for emergency relief funding of $250 million – to be matched by the B.C. government – to help offset the ongoing financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The council added that the funds would also accelerate the delivery of the federal Permanent Transit Fund from 2026/27 to 2024/25, to keep TransLink’s new 10-year expansion plan, the Transport 2050 Ten-Year Priorities, on track.
“Our region is growing faster than ever and our transit system will struggle to keep up with forecasted population growth if we don’t act now to secure funding from senior governments,” said Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West, chair of the Mayors’ Council. “We just need to look at the new federal immigration targets to see that a record number of people will be settling here and adding to the demands on our transit network. This is a critical point to invest in Metro Vancouver’s long-term infrastructure needs and the Mayors’ Council is determined to make sure this message is being heard in Ottawa.”
The population of Metro Vancouver is estimated to increase by more than one million people by 2050. The council stated that the growth will be “supercharged by new federal immigration targets, critical to addressing Canada’s labour shortage and economic growth.”
It is estimated that 1.45 million people will immigrate to Canada between now and 2025, 1 of every 8 of whom are forecast to end up in Metro Vancouver.
The council stated that pressures on the transit system are compounded by the rapid ridership growth across Metro Vancouver, with transit boardings already at 82% of pre-pandemic levels – the highest among North America’s big cities. They added that overcrowding on the system, especially South of the Fraser and other fast-growing communities, is approaching levels not seen since before the pandemic when TransLink was struggling to keep up with surging demand.
A rendering shows one of the stations that will be part of an extension to the SkyTrain system.
The Mayors’ Council is calling on the federal government to:
Provide $250 million in Emergency Transit Relief Funding to TransLink, to be matched by the Government of BC, to protect existing transit service levels in 2023-25;
Accelerate the delivery of the Permanent Transit Fund (PTF) by two years from the original commitment of 2026/27 to 2024/25 to avoid delaying the transit service expansion needed to meet national and provincial GHG emission targets, respond to the housing affordability crisis and serve quickly growing ridership;
Permanently double the Canada Community-Building Fund (formerly known as the Gas Tax Fund) as was done in 2019, 2021 and 2022, and increase its annual escalator to 3.5% to better reflect construction cost inflation; and,
Launch a tri-partite national commission together with provinces, transit agencies and local governments to develop a new funding model for public transit that is more resilient and equitable by avoiding overreliance on regressive sources such as transit fares and property taxes.
The 10-Year Priorities, the plan that was re-endorsed unanimously by the Mayors’ Council on January 26, 2023, includes doubling of bus service region-wide, nine new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines,
expansion of active transportation infrastructure, and SkyTrain service expansion to meet forecasted population growth and ensure more residents have easy access to transit.
“Strengthening transportation links between Metro Vancouver communities is a vital step towards a more prosperous, sustainable future for our region,” said Ken Sim, Mayor of Vancouver. “Metro Vancouver mayors are united in our determination to secure these important investments and we are excited about the positive impacts that they will have.”
Key Takeaways:
Shipping containers with the stadium pieces arrived this month and the facility is expected to be ready in May.
The stadium’s modern and improved modular design was partially inspired by Vancouver’s Empire Field which was a temp facility while construction was being done on BC Place.
The soccer-specific stadium, a first in the Lower Mainland, will offer as many as 6,560 seats for fans.
The Whole Story:
Soccer fans won’t have to wait long for a new Vancouver FC stadium in Langley.
Construction on the stadium will only take a few months thanks to prefabricated modular building techniques.
The first shipping containers housing the club’s flat pack stadium arrived at the Port of Vancouver on Wednesday. Work is underway to lay the concrete foundations and site services that will support the prefabricated modular structure.
“The modular stadium system dramatically reduces onsite construction time and allows municipalities to create professional and intimate soccer-specific venues for a fraction of the budget typically spent on arenas and concrete stadiums,” said Dean Shillington, managing partner of SixFive Sports & Entertainment, parent company of SixFive Stadium Experience and Vancouver Football Club.
The stadium’s modern and improved modular design is based on the likes of Empire Field. Empire was a multi-purpose stadium that stood at the Pacific National Exhibition site at Hastings Park. The temporary field was built to allow a new retractable roof to be installed at BC Place in 2010 and 2011. More recently, flat packed stadiums have been used for Olympic events as the stadium can be packed up and moved elsewhere once games are over.
The soccer-specific stadium, a first in the Lower Mainland, will offer as many as 6,560 local soccer fans an immersive game day experience during the club’s first season in 2023.
The stadium, located at Willoughby Community Park at the Langley Events Centre, is designed to grow with the club and its surrounding community, and is able to expand in capacity and amenities to serve its supporters now and in the future.
“We hope to create a true, authentic soccer destination for all,” said Shillington. “This stadium will become the heartbeat of the community for years to come and is a very flexible amenity that can expand as the sport of soccer continues to grow in Canada.”
Vancouver FC today revealed the first rendering of its new stadium ahead of the launch of ticket sales for the club’s inaugural season in the coming weeks. Vancouver is scheduled to host its inaugural home match on Sunday, May 7 at 4 p.m. PST against Cavalry FC.
“We are delighted to share our vision for our future home with our fans, who can expect a stadium to rise before their eyes in the coming months as we look ahead to hosting our first match in club history later this year,” said Rob Friend, president, Vancouver FC. “We are excited to provide a proper football experience for every fan that walks through our doors, and to see this stadium come to life in the near future.”
The south end of the stadium will be home to Vancouver’s supporters’ groups. The east grandstand will be home to a Cabana Club, while VIP dining and Tunnel Club-style experiences will be offered below the west grandstand.
Vancouver’s youngest fans will be entertained in the Family Zone, located at the north end of the stadium. There will be several entertainment plazas located throughout the stadium, including an area designated to house a mini food truck festival on each match day, offering a selection of eats from local businesses.
Key Takeaways:
The one-time funding opportunity is for all 188 municipalities in B.C.
It’s meant to help communities prepare for future growth and build the amenities needed to support new home construction.
It is the largest single provincial investment in communities in the province’s history.
The Whole Story:
What could $1 billion do to transform communities across B.C?
The province is about to find out. Grants totalling $1 billion are on the way to help local governments build infrastructure and amenities.
The province announced the new grants are intended to help communities meet the demands of unprecedented population growth.
“B.C.’s strong economy and natural beauty continue to attract people from across Canada and around the world. Cities and towns need support to build thriving, livable communities,” said Premier David Eby. “The new Growing Communities Fund will help local municipalities improve roads, build more arenas and water facilities, and improve recreation options for families.”
The Growing Communities Fund will provide a one-time total of $1 billion in grants to all 188 of B.C.’s municipalities and regional districts, which they can use to address their community’s unique infrastructure and amenities demands – such as recreation facilities, parks and water-treatment plants, as well as other community infrastructure. It will help communities prepare for future growth and build the amenities needed to support new home construction, especially with the Housing Supply Act where targets are set.
“Addressing B.C.’s housing crisis requires a variety of responses, including increasing the supply of available housing which, in many communities in B.C., requires investments in community infrastructure and amenities,” said Anne Kang, minister of municipal affairs. “Today’s announcement demonstrates a cross-government co-operation to address the unique aspects of the housing crisis in each community, ensuring they can thrive into the future.”
These grants will complement existing infrastructure funding (such as sewer, water and recreation facilities) and will be distributed to B.C.’s 188 municipalities and regional districts by the end of March. The Growing Communities Fund will come from the surplus shown in the Second Quarter Financial Report.
“I thank the province for this investment into much-needed community infrastructure,” said Brenda Locke, mayor of Surrey. “As we know, Surrey is the fastest-growing city in the province. With that growth, we have an opportunity and a responsibility to work together to create livable communities and create a variety of housing options. This investment will ensure the quality of life in Surrey is not only maintained, but improved. From recreation facilities to parks to roads, this investment will benefit the residents of Surrey both now and well into the future.”
Officials noted that there are six times more requests for funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program Community, Culture and Recreation stream than what is available. This one-time fund supports the priorities of the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM).
“Today’s announcement provides the largest single provincial investment in communities in our province’s history,” said Jen Ford, president, UBCM. “This unprecedented transfer will help meet the needs of growing populations through the expansion of facilities and replacement of aging infrastructure. It will also support climate adaptation to sustain service delivery and safeguard residents from the risks of extreme weather. By delivering the funds with maximum flexibility, the province is ensuring that they will be directed to urgent local priorities. This shows tremendous commitment from the province and is welcome news for residents in all communities.”
Key Takeaways:
Aecon will help build the Oneida Energy Storage project in Ontario.
The project is the largest of its kind in Canada and amongst the largest in the world.
Construction is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2023, with anticipated completion in 2025.
The facility will draw and store existing surplus baseload and renewable energy during off-peak periods and release that energy back to the grid when demand is at its peak.
The Whole Story:
Aecon Group Inc. announced that Oneida Energy Storage Limited Partnership (Oneida LP), a consortium in which Aecon Concessions will be an equity partner, has executed an agreement for an energy storage facility in Ontario.
The consortium entered into an agreement with Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to deliver the Oneida Energy Storage Project, a 250 megawatt / 1,000 megawatt-hour energy storage facility near Nanticoke, Ont.
Under the agreement, Aecon has been awarded a $141 million engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract by Oneida LP. The value of the contract was added to Aecon’s Construction segment backlog in the fourth quarter of 2022.
NRStor, the Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation (SNGRDC), Northland Power and Aecon Concessions will be the owners of Oneida LP, which will provide electricity storage services to the IESO through a 20-year agreement and receive fixed availability payments from IESO for capacity services, as well as revenue from energy sold into the Ontario electricity grid and operating reserve. Tesla is the battery supplier and has executed a battery supply agreement with Oneida LP.
According to Aecon, the project is the largest of its kind in Canada and amongst the largest in the world. It will provide a gigawatt-hour of much needed capacity to the Ontario grid, while prioritizing local Indigenous partnerships and environmental benefits. The scope of work includes designing the facility, procuring balance of plant facility equipment, installing equipment foundations, electrical houses, battery transformers, switchgears and underground cabling, as well as constructing a high voltage substation, and commissioning and startup activities. Construction is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2023, with anticipated completion in 2025.
“As a leader in the energy transition, Aecon is working at the forefront to build and operate sustainable infrastructure and the battery energy storage market offers robust opportunities for continued growth in a significant global market,” said Jean-Louis Servranckx, president and CEO of Aecon Group Inc. “We are pleased to combine the multidisciplinary expertise of Aecon’s Construction and Concessions teams to deliver this sustainable project that will improve electricity management during peak demand, reduce GHG emissions, and support economic development and long-term partnerships with Indigenous communities – creating energy savings to meet the needs of future generations. Building on our existing Aecon-Six Nations joint venture with the SNGRDC, this partnership is a natural progression, and we look forward to working with all partners to deliver this innovative project.”
The project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 4.1 million tonnes – the equivalent of taking 40,000 cars off the road every year. The facility will draw and store existing surplus baseload and renewable energy during off-peak periods and release that energy back to the grid when demand is at its peak. In addition, Aecon stated that it will help stabilize Ontario’s electricity sector by providing important grid balancing services and benefits to provincial ratepayers, including reducing the need and cost associated with using gas-fired power plants during times of peak demand.
Aecon noted that the Canada Infrastructure Bank has played a key role supporting project development and is collaborating with the Oneida Energy Storage Project on an investment agreement. Natural Resources Canada has provided $50 million in funding from the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways program. The project contributes to Canada’s ongoing transition to a net-zero economy by 2050 and commitment to achieving a 100 per cent net-zero-emitting electricity system by 2035.
Their projects are massive, their techniques are innovative and some of their roots go back more than a century. Building Design has released its annual list of the biggest architecture firms. The list is based on the number of fee-earning architects a firm employs.
We dug into the top ten to find out where they come from, what projects they are building and if they have any roots in Canada.
10. HKS
SoFi Stadium. – HKS
HKS is a global firm of architects, designers and advisors. They have 1,500 employees in 26 offices across the world. While they don’t have offices in Canada, they have a significant presence in the U.S. Their work on the LA Rams’ SoFi Stadium won first place in the 2022 World Architecture Festival’s Completed Buildings: Sports category. And Emory Musculoskeletal Institute (EMSK) was a finalist in the Completed Buildings: Health category. They are also working on an 80-story, 1,035-foot residential skyscraper planned for Austin, Texas.
9. DLR
Theatre of Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera. – DLR
This firm is 100% employee owned and their motto is simple: elevate the human experience through design. Founded in Nebraska, the company now has 30 offices from the Pacific to Atlantic coasts in the United States, and several international locations. Some of their recent work includes a new subway station in San Francisco. Last year the firm received American Architecture Awards for two international conceptual designs – the Theatre of Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and the Culture and Sports Complex in Xiamen, China.
Founded in 1970, this South Korean firm has 15 branch offices and more than 1,400 employees. Their offices span the globe in countries like Cambodia, Qatar, Vietnam, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. Last year their work on Incheon International Airport Passenger Terminal 2 won them an International Architecture Award. They also won a Prix Versailles award for work on Qatar Al Thumama Stadium.
SkyTrain Expo Line Modernizations. – Perkins Eastman
While this international firm is headquartered in New York City, they still dip their toe across the border into Canada. Some of this includes the Women’s College Hospital in Toronto, modernizations for Vancouver’s SkyTrain system and Trillium Health Centre in Mississauga. The firm has 24 studios across the globe in cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Austin, Shanghai, Dubai, Los Angeles and Chicago.
AECOM launched as an independent company formed by the merger of five entities. While its official founding was in 1990, many of its predecessor firms had distinguished histories dating back more than 120 years. Since then, more than 50 companies have joined and, in 2007, it became a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange. Their impact in Canada has been vast. Their resume includes Réseau Express Métropolitain in Quebec, Toronto York Spadina Subway Extension in Ontario and a massive terminal expansion at the Calgary International Airport.
4. Sweco
Aarhus Stadium. – Sweco
This European firm was founded in 1958 and swears by the Sweco model. The model is based on four cornerstones: client focus, the best employees, internal efficiency and a decentralized organization. Sweco operates in eight business areas representing 13 countries in Northern Europe. Recently, they have been doing work on the UK’s largest Antarctic science research hub, a net-zero office building redevelopment near London Bridge and the new Aarhus stadium in Denmark.
3. Nikken Sekkei
Kumamoto Railway Station Building. – Nikken Sekkei
Just last year, a Nikken joint venture was selected as the winner of China’s largest transportation hub architectural competition. They also saw their Kumamoto Railway Station Building win International Living Future Institute’s 2022 Biophilic Design Award. But their history goes deep. They have compiled a detailed history of their work that goes back to their founding in Japan in 1900.
2. HDR
Ontario Line Subway – HDR
HDR specializes in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services with more than 200 offices in 13 countries. Their site stats that they are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure. It’s hard to pick which Canadian projects to highlight from HDR because their list of work here is extensive. They are advising on the Ontario Line Subway, did work for the long-awaited McLoughlin Point Wastewater Treatment Plant and were involved with the award-winning John Deutsch University Centre.
1. Gensler
Central Park House. – Gensler
With 2,692 architects on staff and more than $1 billion in fee income, Gensler easily soared to the top of Building Design’s list. They also topped it in 2021. In Canada, they are leading the push to convert vacant office buildings into housing. They are identifying these projects using a data crunching tool that helps identify prime candidates for conversion. They also have digital tools to enhance their design process. The Gensler team has done work on the striking Central Park House in Metro Vancouver, BMO Field in Toronto and the GE Innovation Centre in Calgary.
Cost estimates for the Coastal GasLink Project in B.C. have risen by billions and could rise more.
TC Energy Corporation announced it now expects the project to cost $14.5 billion instead of $11.2 billion. The company gave the following reasons for the increase:
Material cost pressures
Shortages of skilled labour
Impacts of contractor underperformance and disputes
Drought conditions
Erosion and sediment control challenges.
Company officials said a comprehensive cost and schedule risk analysis (CSRA) was conducted to assess current market conditions and potential risks and uncertainties facing the remaining project scope. As a result of the CSRA, TC Energy’s estimate of the costs to complete the Project has increased to approximately $14.5 billion. TC noted that the estimate excludes potential cost recoveries and incorporates contingencies for certain factors that may be outside of its control such as labour conditions, contractor performance and weather-related events.
TC Energy expects to fund the incremental revised project costs and is actively pursuing cost mitigants and recoveries that may partially offset a portion of these costs, some of which may not be conclusively determined until after the project is in service.
They added that Coastal GasLink is working closely with its prime contractors on implementing productivity improvement strategies targeting mechanical completion by year-end 2023, with commissioning and clean-up work continuing into 2024 and 2025. The CSRA review also considered the potential impact of an extension of construction well into 2024. In that event, costs would increase further by up to $1.2 billion. Due to the increase in the expected cost of the project and the additional funding required, TC Energy said it will recognize an impairment to its equity investment in Coastal GasLink LP in its fourth quarter 2022 financial results.
The company said that despite the challenges, project continues to make significant progress having reached approximately 83 per cent overall completion. The entire route has been cleared, grading is more than 94 per cent complete and over 485 km of the approximately 670 km pipeline has been backfilled with restoration activities underway in many areas. The Wilde Lake Compressor Facility has commenced commissioning work with the introduction of natural gas expected in March. Once complete, Coastal GasLink will be Canada’s first direct link for LNG deliveries.
TC Energy’s overall 2023 capital expenditure outlook has been revised to approximately $11.5 to $12.0 billion, reflecting the deferral of certain project spending, expected cost-saving initiatives and incremental funding requirements associated with Coastal GasLink.
“We are disappointed with the increase in the Coastal GasLink Project costs. We continue to be laser-focused on safely completing this critical piece of energy infrastructure at the lowest possible cost, which will enable Canada’s first direct path for LNG exports,” said TC Energy president and CEO François Poirier. “The Project will provide substantive benefits for Indigenous and local communities across the Project route, our customers, the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, as well as playing a vital role in enabling global energy security and emissions reduction contributing to global climate goals.”
Poirier added that TC Energy remains committed to growing its dividend at an annual rate of three to five per cent and accelerating our deleveraging target from 2026.
As previously announced, the company is advancing a $5+ billion asset divestiture program this year. Officials stated that they anticipate a combination of strong market interest and compelling valuations will support upsizing the program to fully fund the capital program and achieve the company’s deleveraging target. Poirier stated that the company will maintain its intent to cease the discounted Dividend Reinvestment Plan following the dividend declarations for the quarter ending June 30, 2023.
“Our strategic priorities for 2023 remain unchanged. Our focus is on safe project execution and operational excellence, strengthening our balance sheet and financial flexibility, enhancing returns on our assets, and advancing our decarbonization and low-carbon opportunities,” said Poirier.
Exxon Mobil announced on Thursday that it will invest roughly $560 million in a new Canadian renewable-diesel facility through its majority-owned affiliate, Imperial Oil Ltd. The move is the latest in Exxon’s efforts to boost biofuel production and curb greenhouse gas emissions.
The facility, which will be located next to the Strathcona refinery near Edmonton, Alta., is now expected to start production in 2025, later than the original target of 2024. The facility is projected to produce 20,000 barrels of fuel daily, utilizing primarily local feedstocks and incorporating hydrogen and carbon capture and storage.
We are making strategic investments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our own operations and to help customers in vital sectors of the economy reduce their emissions.
–Brad Corson, CEO of Imperial
According to Exxon, renewable diesel has the same chemical make-up as conventional diesel but is considered a more environmentally friendly fuel source. Produced from feedstocks such as vegetable oil, it can be seamlessly used in regular engines compared to biodiesel.
“The Strathcona project is another example of how we are investing in advantaged facilities and applying our leading technology and decades of experience to develop lower-emission solutions for customers. We continue to focus investments on markets like Canada, where well-designed policies support technologies that reduce life-cycle emissions,” said Karen McKee, president of ExxonMobil Product Solutions.
Key Takeaways:
The first phase includes 18 km of track and 13 stations.
SNC-Lavalin stated it has extensive global experience acting as the delivery partner to various levels of governments on complex transportation projects.
It has an estimated budget of $5.5 billion and is expected to wrap up in 2026.
The Whole Story:
SNC-Lavalin has been appointed the delivery partner for the city of Calgary’s Green Line LRT, the largest infrastructure investment in the city’s history.
SNC-Lavalin stated that it will leverage its technical and commercial expertise in complex megaprojects to support the delivery of Phase 1 of the Calgary Green Line LRT Project.
The 18 km transit system will connect the existing Red and Blue LRT lines and four MAX BRT routes. SNC-Lavalin, along with its partners, will support the city in delivering project functions such as commercial management, technical support, project controls, and construction management.
“It is a privilege for us to have been chosen by the City of Calgary to support them in the delivery of this project,” said Ian L. Edwards, president and CEO of SNC-Lavalin. “As a leader in the field, we have extensive global experience acting as the delivery partner to various levels of governments on complex transportation projects.”
A rendering shows one of the future Green Line LRT vehicles. – City of Calgary
Edwards called the project a continuation of a long tradition of excellence in the rail industry where SNC-Lavalin has deep expertise in the design, build, operation and maintenance of the integrated systems that are required to deliver smarter cities and better transportation. He added that the project supports the company’s commitment to developing well-engineered and prosperous communities that perfectly align with our purpose.
“The Green Line LRT is a historical project that will change the face of transit in Calgary. Not only will it connect entire communities and improve mobility for people, organizations, businesses and future investors, it will also unlock vital transit oriented development, thus contributing to the city’s economic growth,” said Ben Almond, CEO of engineering services Canada at SNC-Lavalin. “Together with our partners, we bring strong, local teams with in-depth understanding of the project, proven skills and decades of knowledge. We look forward to delivering a safe and reliable infrastructure to the City of Calgary and its citizens.”
Phase one of the project includes:
13 stations
18 km of LRT track
3 park and ride facilities at Shepard, Douglas Glen and Lynnwood/Millican stations
1 km of elevated track between 26 Avenue S.E. station and Ramsay/Inglewood station
3 km of tunnel under Beltline and Downtown
4 LRT bridge structures that span across the Elbow River, Bow River, Deerfoot Trail and Blackfoot Trail
1 LRV maintenance and storage facility
Key Takeaways:
Turner Construction and Clark Builders have be selected for the project.
They plan to use integrated project delivery, prefabrication, modular construction and mass timber.
The building is expected to be completed for the University of Fraser Valley in 2024.
The Whole Story:
Turner Construction Company and Clark Builders have been selected to build student housing at the University of Fraser Valley (UFV) in B.C.. The six-storey, $73 million mass timber building will provide 398 beds on the university’s Abbotsford campus.
The student housing facility will provide lounges, shared kitchens, study, and mixed-use and cultural space. The project will integrate Passive House Building Certification standards.
Turner stated that the building will be constructed using the integrated project delivery (IPD) model. The project team added that this approach will result in increased efficiency and engagement of all project participants through all phases of design, fabrication and construction. The construction team plans to include modularization and pre-fabrication in the building program.
Construction will begin this year and the building is expected to be ready for occupancy in the fall of 2024.
“We are extremely excited to begin work on this housing project,” said Amit Patel, vice president and general manager of Turner Construction Company. “It is great to be part of an extremely collaborative process that will result in environmentally friendly housing for students attending the University of Fraser Valley.”
Some of the project details include:
Six-storey building, built with hybrid construction method, using reinforced concrete, mass timber, and light wood framing.
398 new beds: most units will be triple-occupancy units that include private bedrooms with shared living area and bathroom.
Both single and triple accessible units will be available on every floor.
Mixed-use amenity spaces, including a student lounge, shared kitchens, study spaces, student programming space, a retail unity with a food vendor, and a cultural space.
Key Takeaways:
The 12-foot diameter tunnel will run from Esplanade to Bay and Dundas.
It will house new power infrastructure to replace cables that were installed in the 1950s.
The tunnel boring is expected to be completed by early 2024 and the installation of the new cables is expected to be completed by 2026.
The Whole Story:
Ladies and gentlemen, we have liftoff.
Hydro One has launched construction on a new tunnel that will run 85 feet below ground in downtown Toronto, from the Esplanade to Bay and Dundas.
The tunnel will be 12 feet in diameter, approximately the size of three park benches, and will house new transmission cables, replacing cables that have served Toronto’s downtown core since the 1950s. Hydro One is investing approximately $120 million dollars in this infrastructure renewal project in the downtown core to ensure the company can continue to provide clean and reliable energy to some of Toronto’s most critical institutions, including Hospital Row, City Hall and the Financial District.
“Hydro One plays an important role in supplying power to Toronto Hydro and its customers in the downtown core. The new tunnel we are building underneath the city will house our critical, upgraded power lines and improve reliability for customers,” said Andrew Spencer, vice president, transmission and stations for Hydro One. “We’re steadfast in our commitment to making strategic investments in our aging infrastructure to prepare the grid for the impacts of climate change.”
Hydro One said it is working closely with the city of Toronto and Toronto Hydro to coordinate construction needs and the use of a tunnel boring machine, minimizing disruptions to residents and local businesses by allowing for most of the required construction to take place underground. The tunnel boring is expected to be completed by early 2024 and the installation of the new cables is expected to be completed by 2026.
Much of Ontario’s electricity system was built in the 1950s. Over the next five years, Hydro One plans to undertake projects that will reduce the impacts of power outages, renew and replace critical transmission and distribution infrastructure, enable economic growth and prepare for climate change in almost every community across Ontario.
Once complete, the underground tunnel housing the new power cables will run between Esplanade TS and Terauley TS.
A map shows the route the tunnel will take. – Hydro One
Key Takeaways:
A string of successful biotech companies, support from the province and a pipeline of skilled workers is creating more and more demand for life science facilities in Metro Vancouver.
Low Tide Properties has been gaining experience managing the asset class and is now proposing to build one from scratch.
Their proposed facility, Lab 29, incorporates lessons they have learned and work could begin as early as this year.
The Whole Story:
Low Tide Properties is brewing up something special with its Lab 29 development.
The Vancouver project aims to establish an innovative life sciences and office building development that will neighbour the city’s leading hospitals and research facilities.
Named after the 29th element, copper, Lab 29 pays homage to the metal manufacturing facilities that inhabited the site in the past and the scientific research and development that will take place in the future. In addition to the name, the completed building will feature a striking copper colour intertwined throughout the property’s architecture.
Finding areas of growth
Why a life science building?
Adam Mitchell, vice president of asset management and development, explained that this is what Low Tide does: zooming in on specific cities and neighbourhoods to identify opportunities for growth.
“On a high level, this is what we do. We look for specific areas to invest in as we are not a broad market investor,” said Mitchell. “These areas are usually on the fringes of downtown. They are areas that might be slightly overlooked and there is a compelling growth story for specific real estate.”
Using this approach, Low Tide has zeroed in on asset classes like creative offices, flex industrial, flex urban industrial, multi-family rental and life science. The company cut its teeth by acquiring a series of properties in Vancouver’s False Creek Flats area. Some were originally built as life science facilities but had been turned into traditional office spaces.
“When we started managing these buildings we found the demand for life science space was outpacing office space so we started converting space back from office to laboratory,” said Mitchell. “Through this process we developed expertise in managing these buildings. We understand what tenants want and need out of the building and so we have made it a core part of our strategy.”
Building from scratch
With Lab 29, Low Tide is hoping to push the envelope with a modern, purpose-built life science facility.
Mitchel explained that he believes there are several factors driving demand for life science space. The overall sector is growing in Vancouver and B.C. as a whole. You have local success stories like AbCellera, a biotechnology company that researches and develops human antibodies. The company is best known for its leading role in the Pandemic Prevention Platform, a project for the U.S. government. In 2021, it reported more than US $375 million in revenue.
“These are really good success stories and they have continued to grow, making them strong employers in the region,” said Mitchell. “So more people are getting those science degrees, creating a strong pipeline of talent coming from the schools.”
The province has also done its part to create fertile conditions for science businesses, making it a key part of its economic strategy for the region. While all this makes for a good base to start a company, the lack of life science facilities creates a challenge.
Mitchell explained that many companies start in an incubator at a university, receive government funding to jump start their business, show results or a viable product to get investors, leave academia in search of space but then hit a wall at 20,000 square feet when they need to grow.
“Because of limited availability of space, they usually get acquired and rolled into existing spaces, or in the worst-case scenario, they get acquired by a U.S. company and are consolidated into a U.S. location” he said. “Part of that is just not having the option of available space.”
Work could begin this year
This story of growth potential attracted Low Tide and they have learned the intricacies of managing life science buildings.
“It’s not easy,” he said. “You need an experienced team that knows how the technological components of the buildings work,” he said.
The 230,000 square-foot facility’s design features large floor plates, high ceilings and full backup power so sensitive experiments or instruments aren’t impacted during an outage.
“Redundant backup power isn’t something you typically see in buildings,” said Mitchell. “But it’s one of the lessons we have taken from our existing portfolio.”
Low Tide also wants to help tenants compete for talent by including a large rooftop conference patio, fitness centre and end-of-trip facilities. The project currently awaiting its development permit which Low Tide expects to receive this summer. Shovels could be in the ground before the end of the year. The project team is currently marketing the building for lease.
More renderings of Lab 29:
The city of Calgary has announced the winners of the second annual Winter City Design Competition.
Calgary designers, artists and post-secondary students were asked to dream up activations, designs and experiments along Stephen Avenue and in the Beltline that embrace winter and support Calgarians to socialize and interact with our downtown during the winter months.
“Calgary has an amazing design community and we’re excited to provide creative opportunities to help bring their ideas to life,” says Kate Zago, lead of the competition. “We can’t wait to showcase these designs in February and have people enjoy the new experiences to help create vibrancy, better social connections and increase overall social wellness during the winter months.”
The two winners that will receive funding to build and install their designs in February 2023 are:
Illumine
This design is three glowing frames, each containing movable and interactive elements, focused on public interactions and constant creation. The project team includes Paul Miller, Miles Abesdris.
Illumine – City of Calgary
Chinook-ery
This design was inspired by the region’s landscape. its the modular structures include benches, slides, lights and tunnels that can be organized to support various activities and experienced differently with the fluctuating weather conditions. The Project team includes Giovanni Carano, Vince Ellis, Kayla Royce, Marcia Eng, Jenn Comrie, David Kowel, Leighton Ginther, Jon van Heyst, Kim Crews.
Chinook-ery – City of Calgary
Calgarians see thes designs for themselves from Feb. 1 to 26. Illumine will be installed at Stephen Avenue and 1 Street S.W. and Chinook-ery will be built at Barb Scott Park. Each winning project will receive $15,000 to construct and install their design.
“As an architect, the decision to participate in the competition was driven by the desire to contribute to an engaging public realm and the greater community,” says Paul Miller, Illumine team member and principal with Mion Architecture. “I believe even a small, temporary intervention can materially enrich the life of a street and can become a catalyst for greater human connection.”
Team members from Chinook-ery shared a similar thoughts in a city media release.
“We are professional engineers, designers and planners that work in the Beltline (with some of us living there too),” said Kayla Royce, transportation engineer with Urban Systems. “We loved the opportunity to work across professional disciplines, to think creatively about a local park and to celebrate playful designs that enhance the experience of being outside during the winter season for residents, workers and visitors of the Beltline.”
To learn more about the winning designs and to see all the submissions for the Winter City Design Competition, please visit Calgary.ca/WinterCity.
The Winter City Design Competition was established to imagine the possibilities for eye-catching and interactive displays along Stephen Avenue and in the downtown as a whole. The goal of the competition is to explore and push beyond the boundaries of what public spaces look like in the midst of a Calgary winter in the civic heart of our city.
Metro Vancouver is one step closer to an expanded SkyTrain system now that two teams have been shortlisted for a major project contract.
B.C. has invited two pre-qualified bidding teams to participate in the request for proposals (RFP) stage to design, build and finance the elevated guideway, roadworks and utilities, as well as active transportation elements of the Surrey Langley SkyTrain.
The request for qualifications (RFQ) was posted through BC Bid and closed on Nov. 1, 2022. After a thorough evaluation of the RFQ submissions, the teams invited to participate in the RFP stage are:
South Fraser Guideway Connectors
Proponent: Aecon Infrastructure Management Inc., Acciona Infrastructure Canada Inc., Pomerleau BC Inc.
Design-build contractor: Aecon Infrastructure Management Inc.; Acciona Infrastructure Canada Inc., Pomerleau BC Inc.
Design contractor: SYSTRA International Bridge Technologies Inc.
B.C. officials anticipate the successful proponent will be announced late in the fall.
In October 2022, the province issued a separate RFQ for the construction of eight new SkyTrain stations, including active transportation elements, such as cycling and walking paths around the new stations. A third RFQ was issued in November 2022 for the systems and trackwork contract, including design, installation and integration of electrical systems, such as power, telecommunications and automatic controls, and the supply and installation of the trackwork.
The province stated that it will announce the short-listed proponents for the second and third RFPs in 2023. Contract awards are anticipated in early 2024.
Key Takeaways:
The downtown Toronto retrofit is by developer Dream.
The building is part of a group of 19 Dream properties in Ontario and Saskatchewan which received a $136.6 million investment from the CIB.
Officials say IREE certification is encouraging a standardized process of developing and financing projects.
The Whole Story:
A redevelopment in Toronto is the first retrofit project financed by the CIB to achieve Investor Ready Energy Efficiency (IREE) certification.
366 Bay St. by developer Dream is situated in Toronto’s financial core. It features a newly renovated modern lobby and suites for office tenants. It has high efficiency HVAC systems, 24/7 indoor air quality monitoring, a state-of-the-art energy management system and a building automation system.
IREE certification is part of the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s (CIB) Building Retrofits Initiative and is administered through the Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC). Officials say the goal of the certification is to increase investor confidence by providing third-party verification that retrofit projects meet desired energy targets.
Officials noted that as the first certified building financed by one of the CIB’s large-scale decarbonization investments, Dream’s 366 Bay St. redevelopment represents an important milestone and one of many retrofit projects to come that will be IREE certified. The CIB’s initiative finances the capital costs of retrofits, using energy savings and operating cost savings for repayment.
The building is part of a group of 19 Dream properties in Ontario and Saskatchewan which received a $136.6 million investment from the CIB. The building retrofits will see approximately 1,500 jobs created and the decarbonization and modernization of buildings where 15,000 employees work.
CIB officials added that by requiring IREE certification, they are encouraging a standardized process of developing and financing projects and helping to establish energy retrofit investments as a distinct asset class.
“Our green infrastructure investments are expediting the decarbonization of buildings across Canada,” said Ehren Cory, CIB CEO. “By providing attractive financing options and partnering with the private sector, we can serve as the link to ensure meaningful action is taken to enhance energy efficiency of buildings. IREE certification is our standard to finance retrofit projects and build positive outcomes for Canadians.”
Dream is a developer of office and residential assets in Toronto, owns stabilized income generating assets in both Canada and the U.S., and has an established asset management business. They also develop land and residential assets in Western Canada. Dream expects to generate more recurring income in the future as its urban development properties are completed and held for the long term.
Get ready to hit the ice.
Surrey officials approved a contract for the supply and installation of piles for the Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex. A $3.1 million contract was awarded to Graham Construction and Engineering LP for the next phase of construction. Once complete, the new arena will increase Surrey’s overall ice capacity, while accommodating the need for an additional ice arena in Cloverdale.
“This next phase of construction of the Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex is a milestone for this long-awaited project,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “With foundation work starting, this new destination sport complex is on its way to providing much-needed additional ice in Cloverdale. When completed, the Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex will have two NHL-sized sheets available for team play and public use. This project has also been designed to grow as the community grows by having the option to add a third ice sheet.”
Construction of the Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex began in August 2022 and was included in the 2021 Five-Year (2021-2025) Capital Financial Plan. Along with two new ice sheets, the project includes seating for 200 spectators per sheet, multi-purpose and community rooms, change rooms and other supporting amenities. The complex is also designed with the option to add another NHL-sized arena sheet.
When opened, the new ice sheets will offer various programs including ice hockey, figure skating, public lessons, skating sessions, and dry-floor summer use for sports such as a lacrosse and ball hockey. Officials say the new sports and recreation facility has been designed to be energy efficient and meet the highest standards for accessibility.
The Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex will be located at 6336 177B Street and will open in the fall of 2024.
Stony Plain Road Bridge is coming down.
Edmonton officials announced that on Dec. 29, Stony Plain Road from 129 Street to 131 Street and Groat Road from 107 Avenue to River Valley Road, including the shared-use path, will be closed as Marigold Infrastructure Partners (MIP) begin demolishing the Stony Plain Road Bridge. Replacement of the bridge is required for the Valley Line West LRT project.
Eastbound and westbound vehicle and pedestrian traffic across Stony Plain Road Bridge will be detoured to 102 Avenue or 107 Avenue until fall 2024.
Construction for Valley Line West includes two new bridges: one crossing Groat Road on Stony Plain Road between 129 Street and Connaught Drive and another crossing Anthony Henday at 87 Avenue.
According to the city, construction of the new bridge will take up to two years. The new bridge will be wider to accommodate one lane of vehicle traffic in either direction, the Valley Line West LRT, a sidewalk and a shared-use path on the south side of the bridge. Once completed, the mixed-use transportation corridor is expected to improve access to and from the west end to downtown.
