The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) in Vancouver has unveiled the design of a new, state-of-the-art outdoor amphitheatre with a capacity of approximately 10,000.
It will be one of the largest free-span timber roof structures in the world. The non-profit explained that the new facility will be nestled in the heart of the park with panoramic views of the North Shore Mountains.
“This world-class open-air venue will provide much needed mixed-use venue space for top-tier concerts, arts and culture programming, community events, esports events, and more,” said the group.
The team is expecting to finalize the design this year and start construction in 2024. The facility is scheduled for completion in 2026.
By the numbers:
Maximum capacity of approx. 10,000
Estimated annual attendance 340,000+
Projected 75+ performances per year
24 Commercial Shows
22 Community, Arts, and Culture Shows
14 Corporate Shows
15 PNE Fair Shows (Summer Night Concerts)
The PNE added that the facility feature covered seating, hospitality suites, banquet/lounge space, common areas, and fully integrated premium catering options. They plan to use sustainable products and design, and build to Passive Haus, LEED, and Salmon-Safe certification standards.
“The crown jewel of the PNE and Hastings Park, the new PNE Amphitheatre will enable us to showcase and celebrate BC’s talent, diversity, and enthusiasm for live events,” said Shelley Frost, PNE president and CEO.
Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx have released a request for qualifications (RFQ) for the Advance Tunnel Contract package for the Yonge North Subway Extension.
The Yonge North Subway Extension (YNSE) will extend the TTC’s Line 1 subway service approximately eight kilometres from the existing terminus at Finch Station into the city of Richmond Hill.
The project runs through the Toronto and York Region, including sections within Markham, Richmond Hill and Vaughan. It will include an approximately 6.3-km tunnelled segment as well as an above-ground segment that will run along the existing rail corridor in the northern section of the route.
The RFQ outlines the scope of work to design, build and finance the tunnels. This includes the following:
Approximately 6.3 km of tunnelling works.
Design and construction of launch and extraction shafts, tunnels, as well as headwalls for stations and support of excavation for emergency exit buildings.
Design, procurement, and supply of tunnel boring machines and tunnel liner segments.
Reinforcing and improving soil and works necessary to facilitate tunnelling under and next to the CN Railway tracks and the York Durham Sewage System.
Construction of CN right-of-way separation barriers to expedite safe corridor access and construction.
Officials stated that the RFQ is the first step in the procurement process to select teams to deliver the YNSE advance tunnel contract for the project. Companies interested in bidding on this contract must register with www.merx.com to download the respective RFQ.
It’s no wonder bridges make great metaphors. They connect two places, help thousands overcome major obstacles and often stand for decades.
They are some of the most vital pieces of infrastructure and are relied upon by millions to move goods and services through the country. But they don’t stay standing without some help. Here are 10 major bridge projects that aim to repair, replace or create new crossings in Canada.
The Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project -Surrey, B.C.
Built for $4 million in 1937, the Pattullo Bridge is a key connection between the communities of Surrey and New Westminster. But it’s reaching the end of its life and is being replaced by a new four-lane bridge that includes modern, wider lanes, separated by a centre median barrier for safety. The new bridge is scheduled to open in 2024. Once the new bridge is open, the existing bridge will be removed.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge – Windsor, Ont.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge – named after the late Red Wings legend – will connect Windsor, Ont. and Detroit, Michigan, south of Historic Fort Wayne in southwest Detroit. Running one-and-a-half miles in length and spanning six-lanes, the project will be the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America. It is on track to be completed in 2024. Recent drone footage showed off construction progress so far.
Limberlost Place pedestrian bridge – Toronto, Ont.
Crews lift a pedestrian bridge into place in downtown Toronto. – PCL
A two-story mass timber pedestrian bridge has been installed at Limberlost Place, marking a major milestone for the Toronto project. PCL announced that the bridge was erected 65 feet above street level, connecting level five of Limberlost Place to level six of the college’s Daphne Cockwell Centre for Health Sciences at George Brown College (GBC). Because the bridge was prefabricated off site, installation only took one day.
Groat Road Bridges – Edmonton, Alta.
Crews use gantry cranes to keep bridges open during work.
When Edmonton’s Groat Road Bridges and Road Renewal Project needed traffic to keep flowing while work was being done, Graham rose to the challenge. The team used two mobile gantries mounted in tandem to complete work on several bridges while not interrupting the more than 40,000 drivers who use the route daily. They were able to complete the work on-budget at $45.6 million and within the 33-month schedule.
Nisutlin Bay Bridge – Teslin, Yukon
A rendering shows the design of the new bridge. – Yukon Government
Graham Infrastructure LP is working to replace an aging bridge in the Yukon. The $160-million Nisutlin Bay Bridge project is the largest capital project in the territory’s history. The original bridge was built in 1953 and traffic along the Alaska highway has increased. The new bridge was planned with input from the community and in collaboration with the Teslin Tlingit Council. Indigenous art is being incorporated into the design. Work is expected to wrap in 2026.
Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge project – Montreal, Que.
The existing Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge has already undergone reinforcement work to prolong its life.
Quebec officials recently announced they have finalized the selection process for work on the new Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge reconstruction project. The $2.3 billion project will have two separate structures and accommodate three lanes of traffic each way, a multi-purpose lane and wide shoulders for buses. Officials plant to gradually put the new infrastructure into service near the end of 2026.
Saint John’s Harbour Bridge – Saint John, N.B.
The project to rehab this New Brunswick bridge is entering its fourth and final phase. Work includes deck rehabilitation of both ramps located on the east end and replacement of bearings and pier repairs on the underside of the bridge. It’s expected to be completely refurbished by 2026.
St. Vital Bridge Upgrades – Winnipeg, Man.
Crews began working on St. Vital Bridge improvements in Winnipeg earlier this year. The $52-million upgrades include a bridge surface to extend the structure’s lifespan by 50 years, a widened multi-use pathway on each side, improvements to the pedestrian tunnel under the bridge and more. Work is expected to wrap next year.
Granville Bridge Upgrades – Vancouver, B.C.
A rendering shows upgrades being done to Vancouver’s Granville Bridge. – City of Vancouver
The Vancouver bridge work is part of the Granville Connector project, which includes converting two west-side travel lanes on the bridge to separated walking, rolling, and cycling routes, similar to the protected lanes on the nearby Burrard Bridge. Additional improvements include the installation of new traffic signals, wayfinding signage, and the creation of a pedestrian and bicycle connection to the Arbutus Greenway at the south end of the bridge. Work is scheduled to wrap in fall 2024. The contract is being carried out by Pomerleau.
Wildlife Overpass – Canmore, Alta.
Last year crews broke ground on a 17.5-million wildlife overpass east of Canmore. It is the first wildlife overpass to be built outside of Banff National Park. Officials say it will greatly improve safety as there are an average of 69 vehicle-wildlife collisions annually on the Trans-Canada Highway between Banff National Park and Highway 40.
Key Takeaways:
City administration will begin formal discussions on definitive agreements with all parties, which is expected to be underway through spring and summer 2023.
The project includes an event centre, community rink, potential commercial development parcels, gathering spaces, street improvements and more.
Work on an events centre was set to start in 2022, but the deal was terminated over budget disputes.
The Whole Story:
A $1.22-billion deal has been struck to develop Calgary’s Rivers District and create a new event centre.
The city has reached agreements, in principle, with the province, Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC) and Calgary Stampede to proceed with a significant phase of the Culture + Entertainment District in downtown Calgary.
The area will feature a suite of public amenities and public infrastructure, including a new community rink, improvements to public spaces and connections to the district, and commercial opportunities, all of which will be anchored by a new publicly-owned modern event centre.
The Calgary Construction Association (CCA) stated that the new development will not only enhance the entertainment options in the area but also provide significant economic benefits for the construction industry through jobs and follow-on investment in the Rivers’ District.
“The construction industry is poised to play a major role in bringing this new facility to life, and we are proud to support this project,” said the group. “Our association is committed to working closely with all stakeholders as an advisor to ensure that this project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest level of quality.”
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek said the project is another signal to the market that Calgary is making strong investments in its future.
“The partnership approach we have taken accomplishes two things: we are building an event centre, and we are also creating the public amenities needed within the Rivers District to build community and enhance quality of life for all Calgarians,” she said.
Premier Danielle Smith stated that the new arena and event centre will be at the heart of Calgary’s sports, entertainment and cultural scene for generations, and will result in billions of dollars of economic activity and a higher quality of life for millions of Albertans.
A map shows the layout of plans to develop the Rivers District. – City of Calgary
“The memories experienced here by families and friends will contribute invaluably to the fabric and spirit of this city for decades,” she said. “Calgary is a vibrant world class city deserving and in need of world class facilities. Along with Edmonton’s Rogers Place, Alberta will now have two of the best and most modern event centres in all the world.
She noted that one of her first actions as Premier was to publicly encourage all parties to return to the negotiating table and to appoint MLA Ric McIver along with her office’s executive director to work with the city and CESC to get a deal done.
“Six months later, we have results and I am grateful to the city, CESC, the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede, MLA McIver and everyone else involved who came together to get this job done,” she said. “I can’t wait to get the project started.”
This project includes a number of improvements to the area:
New mobility connection: A new 4-lane underpass under the CP train tracks with wide sidewalks at 6th Street S.E., providing pedestrian, wheeling, and vehicle connections.
Community rink: Shared facility for public booking and training facility for CSEC teams with seating for 1,000.
Outdoor and indoor gathering spaces: More opportunity for community events onsite and in The District.
Event centre: New city-owned building, capable of accommodating “A-class” events and additional hosting space on a 10-acre parcel of land.
Street and public realm improvements: Improvements to 5 Street S.E and 15, 17 and 25 Avenues S.E.
Land: Potential commercial development parcels.
“We are excited to be part of the announcement of a new event centre and community rink that will both be home for the Calgary Flames, Calgary Hitmen, Calgary Roughnecks and Calgary Wranglers. And this announcement will help us put Calgary and the Province back on the map for all major North American concerts,” said CSEC President and CEO John Bean. “We would like to thank Premier Smith, Mayor Gondek, Councillor Sharp and CEO Cowley for their leadership in helping to create the vision for this project and the environment for it to proceed.”
The city stated that the agreements position the event centre to be a complementary anchor to the BMO Centre Expansion and together, these two modernized facilities will work with other improvements in the area, such as 17 Avenue S., Victoria Park Station, Central Library and Studio Bell, as well as the Arts Commons Transformation, to support and contribute to Calgary’s downtown recovery. It will be a place where visitors and a whole new generation of Calgarians will make lifelong memories.
The city of Calgary’s contribution is 44% of the total cost with the province of Alberta and CSEC contributing the remaining 56%. For every $1.00 invested by the city, the province and CSEC together will invest $1.28. CSEC, in addition to their event centre investment, will continue to make community sports payments, to the tune of $1.5 million annually.
Calgary Stampede will support land exchanges and transactions to ensure the district can grow and develop as planned in the Rivers District Master Plan.
City administration will begin formal discussions on definitive agreements with all parties, which is expected to be underway through spring and summer 2023. The project team is preparing to begin the design and development of the event centre, as well as the supporting infrastructure in the area.
Key Takeaways:
B.C. is spending $20 million to fix the aging Science World building in Vancouver.
Work includes replacing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), and electrical systems. Crews will also repair the buildings iconic dome, which is leaking.
The funding is part of a larger effort to repair and upgrade tourism infrastructure in the province.
The Whole Story:
Vancouver’s iconic Science World building is getting repaired.
Repairs to the dome are part of $50-million worth of tourism infrastructure upgrades the province is helping fund.
“If you live in B.C., you have a couple special places you love to visit with family and friends. For my family, Science World is one of those spots,” said Premier David Eby. “If you’re visiting B.C. you know how much there is to see – but all this doesn’t happen by accident. That’s why we’re building a strong tourism sector where visitors can experience all our province has to offer and British Columbians can enjoy their favourite places as well as the benefits of a strong, diverse economy.”
Critical systems housed in Science World’s dome are at the end of their life, including heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and electrical systems, and repairs to these systems must be addressed. The dome is also leaking, rendering the theatre unusable.
The province is investing $20 million in Science World to support priority infrastructure repairs and improvements to its dome and other parts of the building. Updates will include new electrical energy efficiencies and other critical infrastructure upgrades.
Science World under construction in the 1980s. – Science World
“The past three years have been incredibly difficult for people in the tourism industry,” said Lana Popham, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport. “Our government is proud to invest in the tourism sector to support the people who work in it and to support its sustained recovery. By supporting Science World, we are ensuring families throughout B.C. and all our visitors can continue to create lifelong memories together.”
Science World first opened for Expo 86 and has been welcoming more than 860,000 visitors each year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also a learning institution for students and teachers throughout B.C., highlighting careers in science, technology, engineering, arts and design, and math (STEAM) and preparing students with skills for the future.
“This funding will allow us to continue to make critical infrastructure updates to the iconic dome,” said Tracy Redies, CEO, Science World. “We look forward to continuing to work with the Province to ensure we can keep welcoming millions of visitors from B.C., Canada and around the world for another 35 years.”
The province is also providing $30 million to enhance existing tourism infrastructure throughout the province, foster globally competitive destinations, strengthen a year-round visitor economy, and to support sustainability, accessibility and inclusion. Projects include new tourism attractions, campground developments, incorporating Indigenous culture and language, accessibility improvements, and climate change adaptations.
Key Takeaways:
The Canadian Construction Association says Ottawa Hospital’s project labour agreement is unfair to non-union employers.
They cited a new report that suggests the approach could lead to large budget increases.
They believe it is part of a larger trend of unfair public sector procurement practices happening across the country.
In a press release the group stated that Ottawa Hospital’s $2.8 billion Civic Campus project will likely cost taxpayers hundreds of millions more and leave a majority of Ottawa-area construction workers ineligible to work on the vital project.
The CCA explained that an exclusive project labour agreement (PLA) between the hospital and the Unionized Building and Construction Trades of Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec prohibits contractors and workers who are not affiliated with these specific unions from bidding on, or even participating in building, the hospital’s new $2.8 billion Civic Campus.
The group cited a report by the Montreal Economic Institute (MEI) that concluded the Ottawa Hospital’s restrictive PLA will stifle competition, escalating project costs by between $168 million and $525 million by 2028. The authors of the report find it unacceptable for a public entity to make taxpayers pay more by granting exclusivity to a specific group of affiliated workers.
“Not only are a large number of talented workers — many from small and medium-sized firms — barred, but, as the MEI points out, the projects are likely to cost taxpayers more than necessary as a result,” said Mary Van Buren, CCA president.
The CCA stated that the Ottawa Hospital project is the latest in a series of concerning examples, like B.C.’s Pattullo Bridge, where public sector procurement is “falling short on fair and open practices”.
The CCA added that an even more concerning issue is the labour requirements attached to the newly introduced federal clean tax credits established in Budget 2023, which again exclude non-unionized construction workers.
Union workers pose in front of the Pattullo Bridge replacement project in B.C. the CCA says it is another example of non-union workers getting excluded. – Province of B.C.
“The Canadian Construction Association takes issue with these examples and others that either categorically exclude or strongly disadvantage one group of workers,” said Van Buren. “We would take a similarly forceful position if the reverse had happened and union workers had been excluded or disadvantaged.”
When the agreement was announced in January, officials argued that it would be a positive move for the project.
“The Ottawa Hospital wants to do all we can to create a positive and safe work environment for the thousands of workers that will be on site every day during construction of our new campus,” said Cameron Love, president and CEO of the Ottawa Hospital. “We’re thrilled to have partnered with trades unions on this landmark agreement that will help keep the project on schedule and avoid costs and delays associated with work stoppage.”
According to the hospital, the agreement sets out the terms and conditions that will apply to all employers and all trades working on the project. The hospital believes that agreement sets a high safety standard for working conditions for all building and trades workers on the site, increasing safety and job stability, while still following Ontario’s requirements for an open and competitive procurement process.
Officials explained that the agreement ensures compliance with bargaining rights and that all workers on the site are properly trained and certified and will create apprenticeship opportunities for populations underrepresented in the construction trades, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, women, and diverse and at-risk youth. The agreement lasts for the duration of the project.
Key Takeaways
The work includes building new land and a new three-berth marine container terminal.
The project will end up increasing Canada’s west coast container capacity by approximately one-third.
It will generate an estimated $3 billion in GDP annually once built.
The Whole Story
A major port expansion project in Delta, B.C. got one step closer to getting shovels in the ground.
The Government of Canada has approved the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project following an environmental assessment process that started in 2013.
The decision comes as Canada’s container trade remains on a long-term growth trajectory, with west coast marine container terminals forecast to hit capacity by the mid- to late-2020s.
“With this approval, we can advance one of Canada’s most important trade infrastructure projects to date, bolster our national supply-chain resilience, and deliver generational economic benefits for Canadians and Canadian businesses,” said Robin Silvester, president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, the federal agency mandated to enable Canada’s trade through the Port of Vancouver. “I’d like to thank Indigenous and local communities, scientists, industry, chambers of commerce, and all tiers of government, who have played such an important role in shaping the project to date.”
The Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project includes building new land and a new three-berth marine container terminal near existing port terminals at Roberts Bank in Delta, B.C. The project will incrementally deliver an additional 2.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of capacity, ultimately increasing Canada’s west coast container capacity by approximately one-third.
Port officials stated that additional container terminal capacity at the Port of Vancouver will strengthen national supply-chain resilience, by creating additional “buffer” to handle cargo surges, such as those experienced through the pandemic, and support recovery from weather-related disruptions, such as the severe flooding that B.C. experienced in late 2021 that contributed to port cargo backlogs well into 2022.
Officials added that the project will deliver substantial economic benefits, including more than 18,000 jobs during construction; more than 17,300 ongoing jobs; an estimated $3 billion in GDP annually once built; and $631 million in tax revenue.
The port authority is leading the project under its public-interest mandate as a federal agency.
“Roberts Bank Terminal 2 has been designed in a way that ensures it aligns with our work toward our vision to make the Port of Vancouver the world’s most sustainable port, including protecting and enhancing the natural environment and reflecting Indigenous priorities,” said Judy Rogers, port authority board chair. “The port authority has collaborated with Indigenous groups on the project for more than a decade and now we look forward to working together to deliver economic, cultural and environmental opportunities and initiatives.”
The port authority stated that it will continue to work closely with Indigenous groups on environmental mitigation and training, employment, contracting opportunities, as well as providing benefits through the Indigenous Legacy Benefit Fund and signed agreements with 26 Indigenous groups.
The new marine terminal will be located in subtidal waters to minimize environmental effects. It will be funded by the port authority and private investment.
The port authority says it will now continue to work toward obtaining other applicable approvals and permits to advance the project.
More offices in downtown Calgary are getting converted to other uses.
Downtown Calgary Development Incentive Program has approved five new projects that will provide housing to more than 1,000 Calgarians and eliminate nearly 500,000 square feet of office space in Calgary’s downtown. These five projects will convert empty office space into new homes for future downtown residents. The five projects are:
Taylor Building (805 8 Avenue SW) – Cressey Developments
Petro Fina Building (736 8 Avenue SW) – People First Development Company
Eau Claire Place I (525 3 Avenue SW) – Cidex Group of Companies
Eau Claire Place II (521 3 Avenue SW) – Pacific Reach Properties
The Loft (744 4 Avenue SW) – Institutional Mortgage Capital
“One of Calgary’s biggest successes, and one that we are receiving international acclaim for, is our Downtown Calgary Development Incentive Program,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “This program is ensuring that nestled in the centre of our city, Calgarians and visitors can discover welcoming neighbourhoods, unique businesses and active streets. The five office-to-residential conversion projects announced today will be key to supporting this vision as well as expanding the economic engine of the city.”
Three of the five projects will bring new life to buildings in the west end of the Downtown Core – an area that has the greatest amount of empty office space. According to the city, these projects complement three previously announced residential conversion projects in the area. To support current and future residents in this area, the city is making additional investments to improve public spaces and amenities, including redesigning Stephen Avenue and 8 Street SW, West Eau Claire Park and Eau Claire Promenade, and Century Gardens.
“Added vibrancy in west end of our downtown, an area that has considerable vacancy and that is traditionally dominated by office buildings, goes a long way in making Calgary safer for everyone at all hours of the day and enables our local businesses to thrive within complete communities,” said Sheryl McMullen, manager, investment & marketing for the city’s downtown strategy. “These five projects, along with previously announced projects, will help transform the Downtown West and Eau Claire neighbourhoods into key destinations for Calgarians and visitors alike.”
Upon completion of construction, the five new projects will receive roughly $36.3 million combined from the program. The estimated grant amounts are based on a rate of $75 per square foot of office space being converted to living space. Final amounts will be confirmed and disbursed at project completion.
Key Takeaways:
A 129-unit mixed supportive housing and affordable housing development in Vancouver is facing a lawsuit from a community group that opposes it.
The province has stepped into to make legislative amendments so the rezoning for it can proceed.
Officials say the project could break ground in 2024.
The Whole Story:
B.C. is introducing legislative amendments to allow rezoning for a housing project that has been tied up with a lawsuit.
The province announced it was making the amendments through the Municipalities Enabling and Validating Act.
“We are taking legislative action to avoid further delays for the creation of much-needed homes in this Province,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing. “Too many people are sheltering outside. We know it is not safe and we are helping to create badly needed supportive housing in Vancouver. These amendments, if passed, will ensure the City of Vancouver can approve homes for people without delay.”
In July 2022, Vancouver city council approved, in principle, a rezoning bylaw to allow a 129-unit mixed supportive housing and affordable housing development, known as the Arbutus Project, at 2086 and 2098 W. 7th Ave. and 2091 W. 8th Ave.
The approval followed a public-hearing process that invited local residents and other interested participants to comment on the proposed development. The adoption of the rezoning bylaw has been delayed due to legal action by the Kitsilano Coalition, a neighbourhood advocacy group that opposed the project. Last fall, the Kitsilano Coalition filed a petition in the Supreme Court of British Columbia seeking judicial review of the rezoning. They argued that the city’s process did not ensure transparency, fairness and disclosure of key information.
“A fundamental principle governing the conduct of public hearings is that members of the public are provided with an opportunity to make submissions to Council, and that they are provided with all the information that Council has before when making its decision,” said Karen Finnan, a spokesperson for the group.
The coalition argued that it wanted an “alternative model that would be successful for the residents of the project and the surrounding neighbourhood, which includes an elementary school, daycare centre, toddler playground, and a women’s supportive recovery home in the immediate proximity.”
The province stated it is making the changes to the act as a direct response to a request from the city of Vancouver for legislative intervention to allow the Arbutus Project to move forward as soon as possible. With the legislative intervention, construction could begin in early 2024.
“We are thankful for the ongoing support from senior government partners to expedite the delivery of much-needed affordable housing in the city. This project will deliver 129 studio homes and make a huge difference in the lives of people in the community,” said Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver. “We look forward to continuing conversations and working with the community via the neighbourhood Community Advisory Committee as the project progresses.”
Key Takeaways:
taxes on the purchase of a new home in Ontario accounts for 31 per cent of the price, up from about 24 per cent in 2012.
“The federal government is benefitting massively from the growth of the Ontario economy but not reinvesting enough of the tax revenues it receives from new housing development into public infrastructure,” said RESCON president Richard Lyall. “Both now and over the past decades, this has created unprecedented funding challenges for provincial and municipal governments. We are in the midst of a generational housing crisis and it is critical that the federal government finally establish stable, predictable and substantial infrastructure funding for Ontario and its municipalities.”
A report authored by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis and commissioned by the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO) shows that taxes on the purchase of a new home in Ontario accounts for 31 per cent of the price, up from about 24 per cent in 2012.
RESCON noted that the federal government’s share of those taxes is 39 per cent, yet it only invests 7.1 per cent in public infrastructure. The report also indicates that the tax burden on new home construction is two times higher compared to other sectors of the economy. RESCON stated that Infrastructure-dependent products and sectors such as cars, electronics and manufacturing are not taxed nearly as much.
While the federal government reaps most of the benefits of growth through the taxation of new homes, the report notes it has not been a significant participant in funding public infrastructure investment. RESCON argued that this puts a strain on local governments and impedes construction at a time when the feds are increasing immigration targets without regard to housing supply. It highlighted that Ontario’s population has grown by 68 per cent since the 1970s, but the number of annual new housing completions has dropped by 23 per cent.
“The present level of federal investment in public infrastructure falls far short of what is needed to sustain our communities and contribute to economic growth,” said Lyall. “Residential construction of new homes and investments in public infrastructure are critical to the economic growth of Ontario and all of Canada. The federal government is contributing too little compared to the amount of revenue it generates.”
The report suggests that public infrastructure investment funding in Ontario required to support growth trends is 30 per cent below what is required. According to RESCON, this only exacerbates the critical need for increased federal public infrastructure investment to help ease housing unaffordability in Ontario.
“This ongoing lack of support is one of the reasons we have the worst housing affordability crisis in Ontario’s history,” said Lyall. “It is very difficult for developers and builders to build more homes – and for the public to afford them – when taxes account for such a large chunk of the cost and the funds are not being properly reinvested into public infrastructure for the future. It’s a travesty.”
Key Takeaways:
The $119.7-million project will add 470 units of student housing to BCIT’s Burnaby campus.
The 12-storey building will be built using mass timber and incorporate design elements from local Indigenous groups.
Work on the project is expected to wrap in 2025.
The Whole Story:
Construction is underway on a new 12-storey mass-timber building for housing students at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) Burnaby campus.
Officials say that once complete, the project will provide 470 students with affordable on-campus housing.
“Building secure, stable and affordable housing is essential for students to be successful at their studies,” said Selina Robinson, minister of post-secondary education and future skills. “The former government neglected student housing, only building 130 beds over 16 years. Our government is rapidly building new student housing units across B.C., which will help students focus on their classes and lay the foundation for their future. By building over 7,700 student beds in less than six years, we’re helping students save money on rent and travel, while also reducing demand on the local rental housing market.”
The B.C. government is providing $108.5 million toward the $119.7-million development. Once built, it will be the first student housing development at BCIT in 40 years and will more than double the supply of on-campus housing at BCIT. The building will be constructed using mass timber and designed to reflect Indigenous culture in the region, including the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil Waututh Nations. The building will include studio suites, private rooms with shared bathrooms and kitchens, study rooms, common areas and a collaboration space.
“Housing is a top priority for people across B.C. and our government. Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home, and students should feel secure enough to focus more on their studies, and less on finding a place to live,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing. “That’s the goal of our Homes for People strategy – to close the gap between supply and demand and find creative solutions for the housing concerns facing British Columbians.”
BCIT’s Tall Timber Student Housing building is estimated to be completed in spring 2025.
Key Takeaways:
The city is launching Priority Travel Routes around Ontario Line construction zones that will be kept clear of as many road restrictions as possible.
Officials are also coordinating with closely with Metrolinx, contractors and TTC to minimize disruptions.
The effort is in anticipation of construction work to connect the Ontario Line to TTC’s Queen Station.
The Whole Story:
Toronto officials want to limit traffic headaches while crews build the Ontario Line.
To prepare for Metrolinx’s construction of an Ontario Line connection to the TTC’s Queen Station beginning this spring, the city officials announced they are working closely with Metrolinx, contractors and the TTC to ensure that traffic congestion and construction impacts are reduced as much as possible by holistically reviewing capital construction plans, upcoming road restrictions and accessibility around all construction zones downtown.
The city will be launching Priority Travel Routes around Ontario Line construction zones that will be kept clear of as many road restrictions as possible – including non-emergency utility work – to ensure that there are alternative and parallel routes for people to get around.
“The city recognizes the vital need for the unprecedented transit expansion underway alongside the need to keep people – pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and drivers – moving within Toronto,” said officials in a press release. “Once completed, the Ontario Line will make travel within Toronto faster and easier by providing a 15-station subway line running from Exhibition Place, through downtown, to the Ontario Science Centre. The new subway line will also offer significant crowding relief within Toronto’s existing transit network.”
Starting Monday, May 1, Dundas Street, from Jarvis Street to Bathurst Street, will be the first Priority Travel Route as Ontario Line construction will fully close Queen Street from Victoria Street to Yonge Street and Yonge Street to Bay Street. Until summer 2024, this stretch of Dundas Street will only have emergency work; on-street parking will be restricted and CaféTO Curb Lane cafes will not be installed to keep the roadway as clear of restrictions as possible.
A rendering shows the design of an Ontario Line station. – Government of Ontario
More Priority Travel Routes will be identified as Ontario Line construction progresses. To keep traffic moving along these routes, some existing permits and bylaws may be cancelled or amended. Where necessary, these may include not installing CaféTO curb lane cafés, changes to on-street parking and deferring requested road closures for events.
Other ways the city is preparing for Ontario Line construction include actively assessing all construction permit applications and related Traffic Management Plans to minimize the overall disruption caused by construction. The city said staff will work to ensure plans promote the safety of people travelling in the area; reduce noise and parking impacts as much as possible; modify traffic signals to allow for the efficient flow of traffic; deploy paid duty Police officers and Traffic Agents to regulate and direct traffic; maintain access to properties; and identify key site access points and haul routes for construction vehicles.
City of Toronto Traffic Agents will be deployed to key intersections during the morning and afternoon peak traffic periods to actively manage the movement of all road users, reduce delays and improve safety. Traffic Agents will be placed where they are needed most based on evolving traffic demands. More about the Traffic Agents Program is available on the city’s Traffic Agents webpage.
According to the city, Construction Hubs continue to play an important role in logistical planning of the right-of-way. The Hubs review Construction Management Plans, connect travellers with real-time information, collaborate with enforcement officers and communicate impacts and changes to businesses and communities in the neighbourhood. More about Construction Hubs is available on the city’s Construction Hub webpage.
“The city of Toronto, the government of Ontario and the government of Canada are working together to build a multi-billion dollar transit expansion across Toronto,” said Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie. “This construction is so important for the future of our city along with the other major infrastructure work underway. We know we have a lot of construction ahead of us and we recognize the vital need for transit expansion while balancing the needs of the public and businesses to travel in and through the downtown core”
Key Takeaways:
Walters Group supplied and erected approximately 12,000 tons of structural steel and 1.07 million square feet of metal deck for the main tower and podium.
The building offers a total floor area of approximately 1.25 million square feet, over 12,000 square feet of retail space, a four-storey summit platform, and four levels of below-grade parking for 324 cars and bike storage for 507 bikes.
Construction completion is set for December 2023.
The Whole Story:
PCL just topped off a 47 storey project in downtown Toronto.
But this building has a twist. The design of Cadillac Fairview’s 160 Front Street West commercial office tower called for a curved steel beam to create a new and iconic addition to the city’s skyline.
“Constructing a steel office tower is unique in the Toronto market and we’re proud to have reached the top as we build Cadillac Fairview’s vision for their newest landmark building in Toronto, along with our talented construction and design partners.” said Monique Buckberger, vice president and district manager, PCL Constructors Canada Inc. “Placing the final steel beam is a significant milestone for all those involved. Thank you to the hundreds of men and women who have contributed to building this project with safety and quality top of mind.”
Unique Steel Structure
PCL explained that 160 Front Street West’s curved profile applies both form and function, offering a distinctive shape to the city’s skyline and functionality for wind resistance. Structural steel was used in conjunction with a concrete core to help evenly distribute the weight throughout the building, maximizing floor space. PCL noted that in addition to its durability, the use of structural steel allowed the tower to be built efficiently within the confines of a busy urban environment.
“We are proud to be a part of such an iconic project,” said Tim Verhey, executive vice president, engineering & operations, Walters Group. “Being brought into this team as a Design-Assist partner at the very early stages of the project was an incredibly rewarding experience. Having all stakeholders present to work through tough design challenges resulted in practical, cost-effective solutions that did not sacrifice architectural intent. Now that we’ve safely topped off, we extend our congratulations to CF, PCL and everyone involved in this project, and most importantly to the dedicated men and women ironworkers for safely reaching this milestone.”
Ironworkers pose with the final steel beam of Cadillac Fairview’s 160 Front Street West commercial office tower. – PCL
Concrete Beginnings
Following groundbreaking in 2019, the team demolished part of an existing six-story heritage building on site, while keeping its façade intact to incorporate into the new structure. A self-climbing formwork system was utilized to construct the tower’s concrete core, consisting of a top and bottom deck, two trailing decks and two levels that wrapped around the exterior of the core, enabling it to climb up the core as one unit. Completion of the above-grade concrete structure enabled the structural steel partners to move forward in completing the tower’s iconic crown.
To make sure that trade partners who were integral to the core completion were honored before leaving the project, PCL’s 160 Front Street West project team hosted a team barbecue in August, 2022. To commemorate this milestone, all workers received a photobook capturing the progress of the build.
“Our trade partners have been paramount in reaching this significant milestone,” said Ed Sceviour, PCL General Superintendent at the time. “As the concrete core phase of construction wrapped up, a large portion of the crew moved on to other projects, so the celebration was our small way of showing the team our gratitude for getting us to that point.”
With the steel structure topped off, the next steps for the build include finalizing the structure, removing the tower crane from the building that was primarily used for the structure, completing the building envelope, followed by interior finishes.
Construction completion is set for December 2023.
Topping-Off Tradition
PCL explained that topping-off is typically celebrated when a building reaches its maximum height. In the case of a steel structure, celebrating the placement of the last beam is considered a major milestone for ironworkers, the construction team, and owners involved erecting the building.
Traditionally, the final beam is signed by ironworkers and adorned with a small evergreen tree which is symbolic of the structure safely reaching the sky, along with good luck and prosperity for the new tenants of the building. The beam is also accompanied by a flag or banner representative of the workforce.
Beam Signing
Earlier in March, the beam was signed during an event hosted by Cadillac Fairview for future tenants TD Bank and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan. Representatives from PCL, Walters Group and consultants key to the steel program also signed the beam prior to placement.
“As long-standing collaborative team with PCL, we’re proud to mark this significant construction milestone of our newest landmark building in Toronto,” said Wayne Barwise, executive vice president, development, Cadillac Fairview. “This milestone brings us closer to opening this brand-new building that will further connect the downtown core and we’re proud to see this project come to life.”
TransLink and PCI Developments (PCI) are announcing a new partnership to build a proposed mixed-used development near the future Arbutus SkyTrain Station, on West Broadway and Arbutus.
Located next to the future terminus of the Broadway Subway, an incoming bus loop, and the Arbutus Greenway mixed-use walking and cycling path – this is the first development under TransLink’s Real Estate Development Program.
Officials say the transit-oriented development will improve people’s access to sustainable transportation options, generate new long-term funding for transit services, and provide much-needed housing options.
“This partnership will help us build a new transit-oriented community, where people can more easily take transit, walk, or cycle,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “This program will generate much-needed long-term revenue to expand and improve vital transit services, while aligning with local and provincial government goals to increase housing supply.”
TransLink and PCI own adjacent plots of land on the southeast corner of Arbutus and Broadway and have entered an equal development partnership. The proposed development would include:
30 storeys of mixed-use residential and commercial space
Street-level retail and over 200 residential rental units, 20 per cent of which will be rented at below market rates and secured for moderate-income households
Community space that will serve as the future home of the Ohel Ya’akov Community Kollel, a Jewish cultural, education, and neighbourhood centre
“We are honoured to be partnering with TransLink on this significant transit-oriented, mixed-use development,” said PCI Developments president Tim Grant. “We are similarly excited about partnering with The Kollel in delivering their new community and worship premises – all in conjunction with desperately needed market and below-market rental housing in a sustainable development adjacent to Arbutus Station and the Arbutus Greenway.”
The province of B.C. announced that two teams have advanced to the next stage of procurement to design and build stations for the Surrey Langley SkyTrain.
The teams that have been invited to participate in the RFP stage are:
The work also includes constructing cycling and walking paths around the new stations. The province anticipates the preferred proponent will be announced in early 2024.
The Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is a 16-kilometre extension of the Expo Line from King George Station to Langley City Centre, the first rapid transit expansion south of the Fraser River in 30 years.
Once complete, the project will provide transportation for people in Surrey, Langley and across Metro Vancouver. Major construction on the Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is expected to begin in 2024.
The Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is being delivered through three separate contracts. On Jan. 3, 2023, the RFP for the first contract, which includes the elevated guideway, roadworks and utilities, and active transportation paths along the extension, was issued to two shortlisted teams. The contract award is expected in late 2023.
The third contract, for the design and installation of SkyTrain track work as well as the design, installation, and integration of electrical systems is in the RFQ stage. The list of shortlisted firms to advance to the RFP stage will be announced later this spring.
Surrey Langley SkyTrain station renderings:
Key Takeaways:
The program originally focused on office to residential conversions.
It has been expanded to help convert empty office space to hotels, schools and performing arts spaces.
The city is also streamlining the program’s approval process by increasing the internal approvals threshold from $10 million to $15 million.
Two new incentive programs have also been created, supporting office conversion to post-secondary institutions as well as office demolition for buildings that are not suitable for conversion or reuse.
The program now also provides grants to building owners who would like to convert empty office space to hotels, schools and performing arts spaces. Two new incentive programs have also been created, supporting office conversion to post-secondary institutions as well as office demolition for buildings that are not suitable for conversion or reuse.
City Council approved the expansion in order to encourage a more diverse mix of amenities and services downtown. Officials said the three incentive programs will support the revitalization of downtown through the creation of new housing, amenities, services and outdoor public spaces.
“What happens downtown has a direct impact on our city’s livability and economic success in terms of revenue, tax base and ability to provide services,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “The Downtown Development Incentive Program has been incredibly successful so far and we are already one-third of the way to our 10-year goal of removing six million square feet of empty office space. As the demand for urban living remains high, the natural next step is to expand the program to develop both more residential units as well as projects that create amenities and services for residents close by.”
The conversion inventive program is being broadened to include conversion projects for hotels, schools and performing arts spaces. The city is also streamlining the program’s approval process by increasing the internal approvals threshold from $10 million to $15 million. Officials explained that this speeds up the approval process for larger projects (up to 200,000 square feet) by removing the need for Council approval. Increasing this threshold reduces risk for applicants and speeds up project approvals.
The Downtown Post-Secondary Institution Incentive Program
This program has been created to provide financial incentives for post-secondary institutions to establish a greater presence downtown. This would bring an influx of students downtown, which would support downtown’s vibrancy during all hours of the day, support existing businesses and would encourage new businesses to be established. City Council approved $9 million in November 2022 for a pilot project to support the conversion of vacant office space to house the University of Calgary’s School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL). The Downtown Post-Secondary Institution Incentive Program follows this pilot project and sets out program criteria for applicants, approvals process and funding sources for future office to post-secondary conversions.
The Downtown Office Demolition Incentive Program
This new program incentivizes the demolition of buildings that are deemed “end-of-life” and are not suitable for conversion or reuse. The program will support non-office redevelopment and the creation of new public amenity space. Currently, $3 million in funding exists for this program, and additional funding sources may be identified in the future pending grant interest and demand.
“The Downtown Calgary Development Incentive Program was created to remove excess office space from downtown, support downtown vibrancy and ultimately support The City’s fiscal sustainability by restoring downtown property values,” said Natalie Marchut, manager, development & strategy for the city’s downtown strategy. “Supporting post-secondary institutions will bring more students downtown, breathing new life, activity and innovation into our downtown. Creating new public amenity space through demolition of empty buildings supports the initial intent of the program, making downtown more livable, vibrant, and more attractive for both residents and visitors.”
The Downtown Calgary Development Incentive Program is a key initiative of The City’s Downtown Strategy. To date, 14 office-to-residential conversion projects are under consideration for program funding. Should all 14 projects proceed, they will remove two million square feet of empty office space from our downtown and create more than 2,000 homes. That’s one-third of the way to The City’s 10-year goal of removing six million square feet of empty downtown office space.
Alberta is investing $30 million to expand the Red Deer Regional Airport, clearing the way to develop a national transportation logistics hub in central Alberta.
“Alberta’s airports play a critical role in strengthening and diversifying our economy by expanding access to markets, as we don’t have direct access to tidewater,” said Devin Dreeshen, minister of transportation and Economic CorridorsThis investment will allow additional aviation cargo and logistics services, which will not only provide new travel options and get more products to market but also create jobs and help attract new investment to central Alberta.”
The expansion will support the growth of rural communities in central Alberta while enhancing the safety of local residents and airport users by creating an additional emergency access to the airport and the Hamlet of Springbrook. This new funding builds on a $7.5-million grant from Alberta’s government in 2022-23 for the airport to repair and upgrade its runway.
Funding through Budget 2023 will support north end road construction and civil works, including water sanitation, stormwater and fibre optics, to Township Road 374 to support new business opportunities for the north end land development. The development of the north end road will also create additional emergency access to the airport.
“The city and county recognize the Red Deer Regional Airport as an economic catalyst,” said Ken Johnston, Red Deer mayor. “The city, as a joint appointer for the airport with the county, is working together to be a key logistics hub based on our prime location. Thank you to the Province of Alberta for their investments in central Alberta.”
Key Takeaways:
2Nations Bird is a partnership between Bird, Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation’s Willow Cree Developments General Partner Inc. and Fishing Lake First Nation’s Development Corporation, FLFN Ventures.
The partnership was formed to ensure that Indigenous communities and businesses are given opportunities for training and employment during the project.
Officials expect roughly 3,500 jobs to be created at during the entirety of the Jansen Stage 1 project.
2Nations Bird will self-perform concrete foundations work for four main non-process buildings at Jansen.
2Nations Bird also won a three-year site services agreement contract.
The Whole Story:
The 2Nations Bird joint venture is taking flight in Saskatchewan.
The venture announced it has been awarded two contracts by BHP for works on the Jansen Stage 1 Potash Project.
2Nations Bird is a partnership between Bird, Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation’s Willow Cree Developments General Partner Inc. and Fishing Lake First Nation’s Development Corporation, FLFN Ventures.
“We are honoured to be chosen as a key partner for BHP’s Jansen project and are committed to delivering exceptional results through our 2Nations Bird partnership over the next three years. Together, our shared values of respect and collaboration will be instrumental in creating positive and sustainable impacts in the region,” said Teri McKibbon, president and CEO of Bird. “As a service provider in this vital sector of the Canadian economy, working on BHP’s world-class, sustainable potash project is an exciting opportunity.”
Impacting First Nations communities
The venture explained that the 2Nations Bird partnership is rooted in culture, respect, collaboration and providing sustainable, positive impacts for the communities. It was formed to participate in BHP’s Jansen project, providing a full scope of construction and maintenance services. The partnership is focused on procuring goods and services from local Indigenous businesses and aims to maximize employment opportunities for local Indigenous people. Venture officials believe opportunities for specific training and employment programs will support long-term career employment and advancement opportunities.
We held a shareholder question and answer session today and our CEO, Mike Henry, spoke about the importance of our Jansen potash mine and how it is on track for first production in 2026.
2Nations Bird will self-perform concrete foundations work for four main non-process buildings at Jansen, a contract valued at approximately $62 million. The partnership was also awarded a three-year site services agreement where 2Nations Bird has responsibility for general site services during the execution of Jansen Stage 1, as well as maintenance of a variety of facilities currently in operation to service the site. The three-year service agreement is valued at over $110 million.
Working with First Nations subcontractors
2Nations Bird has engaged with KDM Constructors, as the designated subcontractor. KDM has been involved with the project with BHP for over seven years, providing contract services for the Jansen site. As a First Nations-owned industrial construction and maintenance service provider, KDM brings together Kawakatoose, Day Star and Muskowekwan Nations along with the Saskatchewan-based SECON Group of Companies. George Gordon Developments Ltd, the economic development arm of the George Gordon First Nation will also be a subcontractor on the site services agreement.
“Indigenous and industry partnerships, such as 2Nations Bird Construction, create economic and employment opportunities for our Nation and its members. It allows us to develop capacity, learn from one another, and grow in tandem,” said Chief Edwin Ananas, Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation. “More importantly, these types of relationships are critical to advance economic reconciliation which allows us to develop long-term, meaningful, and sustainable outcomes,”
Jansen to be one of the largest potash mines
BHP is investing $7.5 billion to build Jansen Stage 1, which will be one of the world’s largest and most sustainable potash mines and is located 140 km from Saskatoon. Jansen Stage 1 is expected to produce approximately 4.35 million tonnes of potash per annum, with the first production planned for late-2026.
Jansen is 100 per cent owned by BHP. The group stated that its large resource endowment provides the opportunity to develop the project in phases. Jansen Stage 1 is the first of four potential phases. Officials expect roughly 3,500 jobs to be created at the peak of construction.
“BHP is delighted to announce the partnership with 2Nations Bird and we look forward to building strong working relationships,” said Simon Thomas, president Potash, BHP. “The award of these contracts is a significant milestone for Jansen Stage 1 and one that will have positive impacts for the local community. We are committed to upholding the opportunity agreements we have with the six First Nations surrounding Jansen and to working with other Indigenous communities to help ensure Indigenous Peoples gain from our presence in the region.”
Major work is being done to transform how Ontario residents move around the province and power their homes. Nearly all of biggest projects revolve around transit and two projects on this list are significant nuclear power upgrades that will impact the region for decades. Keep reading to see how the lives of Ontario residents are set to change in the coming years.
11. Ottawa LRT (Stage 2) – $4.6 billion
The nation’s capital will soon have 44 kilometres of rail and 24 new stations for its LRT system. Last year saw stations taking shape, rail installation advancing, and trains on track for testing. However, it hasn’t been without some snags. Reports to the city show the project is running a year-and-a-half behind schedule because of labour and cement shortages and is now expected to be delivered in late 2026. Construction is being carried out by Kiewit and Vinci. Design engineering services is being provided by WSP Canada Inc. and Hatch Ltd.
10. Eglinton Crosstown West Extension – $4.7 billion
The extension of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT will run 9.2 kilometres from the future Mount Dennis LRT station to Renforth Drive and will operate mainly underground. Once complete, it will create a continuous rapid transit line that stretches from Scarborough, through midtown Toronto, and into Mississauga. In 2021, officials awarded a fixed-price contract of $729.2 million to West End Connectors (Aecon Infrastructure Management Inc., Dragados Canada Inc., Ghella Canada Ltd.) to design, build and finance the tunnels. Last month these tunneling efforts reached the halfway mark. plans are also being explored to extend the line to Pearson International Airport.
9. Centre Block Rehabilitation – $5 billion
Centre Block; House of Commons Foyer; Graham Forster assesses condition of stone frieze; Masonry Conservator; Capital Conservation Services (CCS); iPad.
Following an Auditor General’s report that predicted the Centre Block would experience “total failure” sometime between 2019 and 2025, officials embarked on the largest, most complex heritage rehabilitation project ever seen in Canada. The design lead is CENTRUS and the construction management is being done through a partnership between PCL and EllisDon. According to the latest progress report, the team aims to complete construction between 2030 and 2031. The Centre Block will reopen about one year later.
8. Hurontario LRT – $5.6 billion
Once in service, the 18-kilometre Hazel McCallion Line (Hurontario’s name once it is completed) will bring a new method of transportation to a rapidly growing region. The new transit system will feature 19 stops, travel through two urban growth centres and connect to major transit systems including GO Transit (Milton and Lakeshore West lines), the Mississauga Transitway, Brampton Transit, ZUM and MiWay. The Hazel McCallion Line will operate in its own dedicated lane. Mobilinx, a consortium of local and international companies, was awarded the contract to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the system. Major construction began in spring 2020 and the expected completion is fall 2024.
7. Gordie Howe International Bridge – $5.7 billion
This January was an epic month for the Gordie Howe International Bridge project, marking the beginning of the stay cable installation. In total, the bridge will feature 216 stay cables, 108 on each side. The structure will be a six-lane crossing of the Detroit River connecting Detroit, Michigan with Windsor, Ont. When completed, the 1.5-mile crossing will be the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America, with a main span of .53 mile. The bridge will also feature a nearly 12-feet-wide pedestrian/cycling path. The project also includes building new ports of entry that will connect to both the American and Canadian bridge termini, as well as onward connections to I-75 in southwest Detroit. The project is being delivered by a consortium that incldues ACS Infrastructure Canada Inc., Fluor Canada Ltd. and Aecon Concessions.
6. GO Expansion Projects (Early Works) – $10.5 billion
While the main work on the GO Expansion has yet to begin, over $11 billion of early works and off-corridor projects are already underway, including station renovations, expansions and improvements, grade separations, bridge and tunnel expansions and maintenance facilities.
5. Ontario Line – $10.9 billion
There is a strong argument that this project should be further down this list. While its original cost estimate is $10.9 billion, Infrastructure Ontario believes it could be much closer to $19 billion. Last fall, two massive contracts were awarded for the line: a $9 billion contract to the Connect 6ix team to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the Ontario Line rolling stock, systems, operations and maintenance (RSSOM) package; a $6 billion package to Ontario Transit Group package to deliver the rail project’s tunnel, seven stations and other rail infrastructure. The subway line will bring 15 new stations to the city and will run from Exhibition Place, through the heart of downtown, all the way to the Ontario Science Centre.
4. Eglinton Crosstown LRT – $12.5 billion
This work will create a midtown connection between east and west Toronto. With 25 stations along the dedicated route, officials say it will make getting across town will be up to 60 per cent faster. In 2016 Crosslinx Transit Solutions began work. The group has a $9.1 billion, 30-year alternative financing and procurement (AFP) contract to finance, build, and maintain the line. Its team includes EllisDon, Aecon, Dragados, SNC-Lavalin, IBI Group and many others.
In 2016, after years of detailed planning and preparation, Ontario Power Generation’s team shut down the first of four Darlington reactors scheduled for refurbishment over the next 10 years. Officials say the project continues to progress on time and on budget. The refurbishment and the subsequent 30 more years of station operation are expected to generate a total of $89.9 billion in economic benefits for Ontario, create 14,200 jobs per year, and boost personal income by an average of $1.6 billion on an annual basis. Work on the first four units is expected to wrap in 2026. Darlington will also be the site of a historic small modular reaction project.
2. Bruce Power Refurbishment – $13 billion
Another upgrade to the province’s nuclear infrastructure, this project will overhaul all eight of the units of the 6.2GW Bruce Nuclear Generating Station. The largest plant of its kind in the country, Bruce was originally constructed by Ontario Hydro between 1970 and 1987. Early project work began in 2016 and the refurbishment of unit 6 is expected to wrap in 2024.
GO Expansion (On-Corridor Works) – $15.5 billion
The On Corridor Works project is the largest capital infrastructure project in Ontario’s GO Rail Expansion program. On Corridor work includes all works that facilitate train service, such as track, civil infrastructure, signalling, electrification infrastructure and electric vehicles, as well as the operations and maintenance of the GO rail network. Last April, the project contract was awarded to ONxpress, a group that includes Aecon, ALSTROM, FCC Construction S.A, and DB International Operations. ONxpress is responsible for designing, building, operating and maintaining all GO Rail infrastructure and trains for 25 years.
Key Takeaways:
Michelin is planning a $300M facility expansion in Nova Scotia to produce tires for electric vehicles.
Michelin will receive a tax credit of about $61.3 million over five years for the project.
The project will also receive up to $44.3 million in federal funding .
The Whole Story:
Michelin, one of Nova Scotia’s largest employers, is moving forward with a major expansion of its manufacturing facility in Bridgewater with the help of a recently enhanced provincial tax credit.
“Nova Scotia is an amazing place to do business and Michelin’s decision to modernize and expand its operations here speaks volumes about our business environment,” said Premier Tim Houston. “Michelin’s strong commitment to greening their operations aligns with our government’s plan for a clean and green economy, where the environment and Nova Scotians can thrive, and no one is left behind.”
Michelin will modernize and expand its operation in Bridgewater, enabling the plant to produce energy efficent tires for the electric vehicle market and larger rim size tires.
In October, the province expanded the Capital Investment Tax Credit. The tax credit rate increased from 15 to 25 per cent, the cap from $30 million to $100 million for all applicants and extended the time period from 2025 to 2029.
A video explains the unique tire needs of electric vehicles. – Michelin
Michelin will receive a tax credit of about $61.3 million over five years based on eligible capital investments of $302.7 million to be used in Nova Scotia.
The Government of Canada, through the Strategic Innovation Fund, is also contributing up to $44.3 million in federal funding toward Michelin’s expansion, pending a final agreement.
“Companies understand the excellence of Canada’s workers and auto sector – and today’s announcement is a testament to that,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “Here in Nova Scotia, we are once again seeing that when we invest in our workers, we build communities and an economy that works for everyone, while leaving a stronger, healthier future for our kids.”
The Capital Investment Tax Credit is a refundable corporate income tax credit that provides credit for capital costs of new equipment used primarily in manufacturing or processing goods for sale or lease, farming or fishing, logging, storing grain or harvesting peat.
Michelin employs more than 3,600 Nova Scotians at their manufacturing plants in Bridgewater, Lunenburg Co., Waterville, Kings Co. and Granton, Pictou Co.
