Category: Projects

Key Takeaways:

• Second tunnel launch shaft for the Ontario Line breaks ground near the future Gerrard Station, enabling three kilometres of twin tunnels under Pape Avenue.
• Major transit expansion will connect Exhibition Place to the Eglinton Crosstown LRT in 30 minutes or less, adding 15 stations and over 40 connections while easing TTC crowding.
• Transit-oriented development around Gerrard Station will include 2,400 new homes, retail and office space, and support hundreds of jobs.

The Whole Story:

Construction has begun on a second tunnel launch shaft for the Ontario Line near the future Gerrard Station, a step the province says will cut commute times and expand rapid transit access to thousands more Toronto residents.

“The Ontario Line will introduce all-new rapid transit to the Gerrard and Carlaw community and surrounding neighbourhoods, part of our nearly $70 billion investment to deliver the largest transit expansion in North America,” Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said Wednesday. “In the face of U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty, we are protecting Ontario’s economy by building the next generation of subway service that will create thousands of good-paying jobs and fuel long-term economic growth.”

The new shaft will allow tunnel boring machines to dig three kilometres of twin tunnels north under Pape Avenue. It will eventually serve as a portal where Ontario Line trains move from above-ground to underground. Gerrard Station, just south of the site, will put nearly 12,000 people within walking distance of the line and is expected to handle more than 3,000 rush-hour passengers daily.

Once complete, the 15.6-kilometre Ontario Line will connect Exhibition Place to the Eglinton Crosstown LRT at Don Mills Road in 30 minutes or less, compared to the current 70-minute trip. It will include 15 stations and more than 40 connections to TTC subways, buses, streetcars and regional trains, with the province estimating it will reduce crowding on the busiest stretch of Line 1 by up to 15% during peak periods.

Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma said the project will also support new developments around the station. “We are seizing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build two transit-oriented communities at the future Gerrard Station,” she said. “These will include nearly 2,400 new homes, new retail and office space to support approximately 685 jobs.”

Metrolinx president and CEO Michael Lindsay said the tunnels will directly connect to Pape Station, reducing crowding on Line 2 by 21% during rush hour. “To put it another way, there will be 6,000 fewer people at Bloor-Yonge Station during the busiest travel hour of the day thanks to the Ontario Line,” he said.

Key Takeaways:

• A $75M investment from the federal government and City of Calgary will convert a 16-storey downtown office tower into 166 rental units for new immigrants, students and young couples.
• The redevelopment features include 17 accessible units, modern amenities, and proximity to parks, transit, and shopping, with completion expected in late 2027.
• A public-private partnership between Dream Office REIT, CMHC and the city aims to address housing shortages while revitalizing Calgary’s downtown core.

The Whole Story:

The federal government and the City of Calgary are investing more than $75 million to convert a downtown office tower into 166 rental units aimed at new immigrants, students and young couples.

Parliamentary secretary Corey Hogan, speaking on behalf of Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson, joined Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek on Wednesday to announce the project at the former Barclay Centre at 606 4 Street SW.

The 55-year-old, 16-storey office building will be redeveloped into a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, with 17 accessible units. Amenities will include a fitness centre, co-working space, two common lounges, and an outdoor patio with a barbecue.

Located across from Courthouse Park and Harley Hotchkiss Gardens, and steps from two CTrain stations and the CORE Shopping Centre, the project is set to open in late 2027. Officials say it is part of a broader push to revitalize downtown Calgary and increase the supply of affordable, sustainable housing.

Hogan said the investment shows what’s possible when governments and the private sector work together to boost housing supply and bring down costs.

Gondek credited years of strategic planning and public-private partnerships for helping reshape the city’s core while driving economic growth.

Dream Office REIT, which owns the building, is partnering with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and the city on the redevelopment. Chief financial officer Jay Jiang said the project demonstrates how underused office space can be transformed into “vibrant residential communities” in the heart of the city.

Key Takeaways:

• North Vancouver’s Manor House apartment building underwent a deep energy retrofit that is projected to cut overall energy use by 55%, natural gas consumption by 69% and greenhouse gas emissions by 68%.
• The work, led by FortisBC, the Pembina Institute and Metro Vancouver Housing, modernized insulation, windows, roofing, heating and ventilation systems while keeping rents stable and residents in place.
• Manor House is the first completed project under the Reframed Initiative and FortisBC’s deep retrofit pilot, which is testing whole-building efficiency upgrades in homes and commercial properties across B.C. to inform future rebate programs.

The Whole Story:

A 1970s-era apartment building in North Vancouver has undergone a major energy retrofit aimed at cutting natural gas use, slashing emissions and making homes more comfortable for residents.

FortisBC Energy Inc., the Pembina Institute, Metro Vancouver Housing and local officials marked the completion of the upgrades at Manor House, a 50-unit non-market rental complex, earlier this month.

The project, part of FortisBC’s deep energy retrofit pilot program, added triple-glazed windows, new insulation, an upgraded roof, gas heat pumps, in-suite heating and cooling systems, and heat recovery ventilation units. Control systems were also modernized.

Preliminary modelling estimates show the work will reduce the building’s overall energy use by 55%, cut natural gas consumption by 69% and lower greenhouse gas emissions by 68%.

“This project is a great example of how a high-performance gas retrofit can achieve gas and emissions savings on our path to support a lower carbon energy future,” said Joe Mazza, FortisBC’s vice-president of energy supply and resource development.

The Manor House overhaul was carried out under the Reframed Initiative, led by the Pembina Institute, which aims to transform how multi-unit residential buildings are retrofitted to boost efficiency, safety and climate resilience.

Bowinn Ma, B.C.’s Minister of Infrastructure and MLA for North Vancouver–Lonsdale, toured the building to see the upgrades firsthand.

Pembina Institute senior director Monica Curtis said deep retrofits are a “practical solution” to ensure homes are affordable to heat and cool while protecting residents during extreme weather.

Metro Vancouver Housing board chair Mike Hurley said the work extends the building’s lifespan by 50 years without displacing tenants or raising rents.

FortisBC is testing similar retrofits in four commercial buildings and 20 homes across the province, with the goal of refining future rebate and incentive programs.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario is investing $135 million in Niagara Region and Leamington for water and irrigation projects to boost housing, protect farmland, and support the agri-food sector.
• Niagara will receive $94 million for water system upgrades and irrigation pipelines, while Leamington will get $41 million to improve wastewater treatment for greenhouse operations.
• The funding is part of the province’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, which has so far enabled about 800,000 new homes and invested $2.3 billion in housing-related infrastructure.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government is committing $135 million to water and irrigation infrastructure in Niagara Region and the Municipality of Leamington, saying the investment will help build more homes, protect farmland and support the province’s agri-food economy.

Niagara Region will receive about $94 million, including $53 million for six water system projects aimed at unlocking up to 14,000 new homes through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund. Another $41 million will go toward irrigation pipelines to supply water to hundreds of farms and agricultural businesses.

Leamington will get $41 million to improve wastewater treatment services, a move officials say will help protect thousands of acres of greenhouse operations and bolster domestic food production.

“In the face of U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty, our government is investing in the future for the people of Ontario by doubling down on our plan to build,” said Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma in a statement.

Agriculture Minister Trevor Jones called the projects a way to “safeguard food security” and give Ontario farmers the tools to compete and succeed. Leamington is home to one of the largest greenhouse hubs in North America, while Niagara produces most of Ontario’s tender fruit and grape crops.

The Niagara water projects are part of $400 million in previously announced MHIP funding, which supports housing-related infrastructure. This round will fund 50 new water projects in 55 municipalities to help enable up to 86,000 new homes provincewide. The province says the program has so far helped make way for about 800,000 new homes, with $2.3 billion invested to date.

Officials say the agriculture-focused projects in Niagara and Leamington will improve crop yields, quality and drought resilience, while conserving water and enhancing long-term farm sustainability. In Leamington, nutrient-heavy wastewater will be treated to improve water quality and allow for community and greenhouse expansion.

The investments are part of Ontario’s more than $200-billion capital plan, which also includes building and upgrading transit, highways, hospitals, schools and other public infrastructure.

Key Takeaways:

• Fluor Corp. and JGC Corp. have been awarded a contract to update engineering and design for a potential Phase 2 expansion of the LNG Canada terminal in Kitimat, B.C.
• LNG Canada, backed by major global energy companies, is Canada’s first large-scale LNG export facility with a capacity of up to 14 million tonnes annually; Phase 2 would further boost processing, storage and shipping.
• A final investment decision on Phase 2 has not yet been made, despite the recent completion and first shipment from Phase 1.

The Whole Story:

Fluor Corp. says its joint venture with Japan’s JGC Corp. has been awarded a contract to update the front-end engineering and design for a proposed second phase of the LNG Canada export terminal in Kitimat, B.C.

The U.S.-based engineering firm did not disclose the value of the deal, which it recorded in the second quarter of 2025. The award comes shortly after the first LNG shipment left the facility, marking the completion of Phase 1. The JGC-Fluor partnership has worked on the project since 2018, handling engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning for the initial build.

Located on the traditional territory of the Haisla Nation on B.C.’s north coast, LNG Canada is the country’s first major liquefied natural gas export facility. The plant has an annual capacity of up to 14 million tonnes and access to abundant, low-cost natural gas from northeast B.C., as well as an ice-free deepwater port. Backed by a 40-year export licence, the facility aims to supply Asian markets with LNG as a lower-carbon alternative to coal, potentially reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.

The project is a joint venture between Shell, Petronas, PetroChina, Mitsubishi Corp., and Korea Gas Corp. (KOGAS).

The first phase involved the construction of two LNG processing units (“trains”). This initial stage also included a new marine terminal, storage tanks, and the Coastal GasLink pipeline, which transports natural gas from northeastern B.C. to the facility

Phase 2, if approved, aims to double the plant’s capacity by adding two more LNG trains, as well as expanding related storage and shipping infrastructure. Future expansion is contingent upon environmental assessments, market demand, and investment decisions.

“We’ve been a proud partner of LNG Canada through Phase 1 and we look forward to contributing to the next chapter in the construction of this world-class facility,” said Mike Alexander, Fluor’s president of energy solutions, in a statement.

Fluor has operated in Canada for more than 75 years, working on large-scale oil, gas, mining, power and infrastructure projects.

Key Takeaways:

• BC Hydro has fully commissioned all six generating units at the Site C dam, adding over 1,100 megawatts of capacity and increasing B.C.’s electricity supply by about eight per cent.
• The project, which began construction in 2015, will provide enough clean power for roughly 500,000 homes annually and is expected to operate for the next 100 years.
• Remaining work includes completing infrastructure, restoring the surrounding area, and keeping the public away from the reservoir until at least spring 2026 due to safety hazards.

The Whole Story:

BC Hydro has fully commissioned the sixth and final generating unit at its $16-billion Site C hydroelectric project, marking a major milestone nearly a decade after construction began.

With all units now in service, the dam on the Peace River can produce more than 1,100 megawatts of electricity — enough to power about 500,000 homes a year — boosting the province’s total electricity supply by roughly eight per cent. Officials say the increase will help meet B.C.’s growing demand for clean energy.

“This is another step forward to securing B.C.’s clean energy future,” said Energy Minister Adrian Dix, who thanked the thousands of workers involved since construction began in 2015.

The first generating unit came online in October 2024, with the rest brought into operation over the following 10 months. BC Hydro president and CEO Charlotte Mitha called the completion “a proud moment,” saying Site C will operate for the next century and play a key role in keeping the power system stable and reliable.

Remaining work on the project includes finishing the powerhouse and generating station, paving access roads, final equipment testing and closing out deficiencies. Crews are also backfilling tunnels used to divert the Peace River and restoring areas disturbed by construction.

BC Hydro is warning the public to stay away from the Site C reservoir and nearby slopes due to hazards such as floating debris and unstable shorelines. Public boat launches are not expected to open until spring 2026 at the earliest.

Canada’s roadbuilding and paving industry is dominated by contractors who have shaped the country’s transportation infrastructure for decades. These companies combine decades of experience with cutting-edge technology to deliver everything from small municipal road projects to multi-billion dollar highway systems. Here are the industry’s most significant players, each with their own unique history and specializations.

Dufferin Construction Company

Founded in 1912 by Italian immigrant James F. Franceschini, Dufferin Construction Company stands as Canada’s largest paving contractor and has built much of Ontario’s highway infrastructure over more than a century. Based in Mississauga, Ontario, the company has contributed to major projects including the construction of portions of the Alaska Highway in the 1940s, Highway 401, Highway 407 East, and numerous airport runways across Canada. As a business unit of St. Lawrence Cement Inc. (part of the Holcim Group), Dufferin claims it operates its own hot-mix asphalt plants and is recognized as both the largest paving and concrete contractor in Canada, with capabilities spanning from roadways and bridges to tunnels and marine construction.

The Miller Group (Colas Canada)

The Miller Group, now part of Colas Canada, traces its roots back to 1917 and has been a cornerstone of Canadian road construction for over a century. Headquartered in Markham, Ontario, with operations extending into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Miller provides comprehensive transportation infrastructure services including paving, construction, maintenance, and materials supply through numerous subsidiary companies like Brennan Construction, Georgian Paving, and Miller Paving. The company has built hundreds of highways across Canada and recently secured major contracts including the western section of Ontario’s Bradford Bypass project. With expertise spanning from routine highway maintenance to complex public-private partnerships, Miller operates asphalt plants, aggregate quarries, and ready-mix concrete facilities while maintaining long-term highway maintenance contracts across multiple provinces.

Emil Anderson Construction

Emil Anderson Construction began in 1938 when founder Emil Anderson started a small highway construction company in Fort William, Ontario, before relocating to B.C. in 1942 to help build the Alaska Highway during World War II. Now based in Chilliwack and Kelowna, BC, the family-owned company has evolved into a multi-disciplinary contractor specializing in civil construction, road building, land development, and infrastructure maintenance across Western Canada. EAC has contributed to major BC highway projects including large portions of the Coquihalla Highway, the Hope-Princeton Highway rebuild, and the complex Kicking Horse Canyon phases.

Aecon Group Inc.

Aecon Group Inc., with roots dating back to 1877, has grown into one of Canada’s largest construction companies with extensive road and highway construction capabilities through its Infrastructure division. Based in Toronto with operations across Canada, Aecon has built iconic transportation projects including portions of Highway 401, the CN Tower’s supporting infrastructure, and major highway rehabilitation projects. The company combines traditional roadbuilding expertise with advanced technology, including precision paving systems for projects requiring exceptional smoothness standards, and has established permanent asphalt plants to support major projects like those near Calgary. Aecon’s transportation portfolio spans from municipal road construction to major multi-lane highway developments, supported by their integrated approach to project delivery and materials supply.

Kiewit Canada Group Inc.

Kiewit Canada began operations in 1941 and has since become one of the country’s most respected transportation contractors. The company has delivered some of Canada’s most complex infrastructure projects, including the massive $2.5 billion Port Mann/Highway 1 improvement project featuring the 10-lane cable-stayed Port Mann Bridge—one of the world’s widest bridges. Based with major operations across Canada, Kiewit specializes in large-scale highway construction, complex interchange projects, and design-build delivery methods, with recent projects including the $32.6 million Dewdney Bridge replacement and various highway reinstatement projects following natural disasters. The company’s expertise extends from simple rural highways to complex multi-level interchanges, with a strong focus on safety, innovation, and collaborative project delivery methods.

Ledcor Group of Companies

Founded in 1947 by William Lede, Ledcor has grown into one of North America’s most diversified construction companies with over 6,000 employees and extensive highway construction capabilities. Headquartered in Vancouver, Ledcor’s Infrastructure division has constructed and maintained thousands of kilometers of roadway since its founding, specializing in complex design-build projects across challenging terrains and weather conditions. The company maintains highway contracts covering thousands of kilometers in Alberta, B.C., and Ontario, while also delivering major new construction projects and bridge work. Ledcor has made significant investments in environmental sustainability, including state-of-the-art asphalt plants that exceed emission standards and eliminate water usage through innovative particle recycling technology.

Terus Construction (Colas Western Canada Inc.)

Terus Construction operates as an integrated group of road construction and materials companies throughout British Columbia and the Yukon Territory, with a network of 29 decentralized operating companies and approximately 580 employees completing over 1,000 projects annually. The company specializes in road paving and construction projects ranging from major highway work to remote community infrastructure, supported by 17 concrete plants, 59 gravel pits and quarries, and comprehensive aggregate production capabilities. Recent major projects include the $7 million Highway 22 resurfacing project through Trail and Castlegar, complex night-shift paving through high-traffic urban cores, and specialized work in remote locations like the Masset Paving Program on Haida Gwaii. Terus offers innovative paving solutions including hot-mix and warm-mix asphalt, polymer-modified mixes, and full-depth reclamation services, while also providing ready-mix concrete and aggregates supply.

BA Blacktop (VINCI Construction Canada)

BA Blacktop, a subsidiary of VINCI Construction Canada, was founded in B.C. in 1956 and has evolved into a major general contractor and design-builder with over 300 personnel and 390 pieces of mobile equipment. Operating through BA Blacktop Ltd., BA Blacktop Infrastructure Inc., and Coquitlam Ridge Constructors Ltd., the company specializes in transportation infrastructure including major design-build projects like the Lickman Interchange and Highway 1 corridor improvements. The company recently secured a significant contract as part of a consortium to upgrade and widen a 4.5-kilometer section of Highway 1 in British Columbia, worth $94 million CAD, demonstrating their capability to handle large-scale highway modernization projects. BA Blacktop’s expertise spans from municipal road rehabilitation and paving services to complex multi-span bridge construction and innovative concrete structure solutions.

Mainroad Group

The Mainroad Group is an employee-owned company with over 30 years of experience, operating as a leader in highway maintenance and infrastructure services across B.C. and Alberta. The company manages extensive highway maintenance contracts covering thousands of kilometers of provincial highways, including major infrastructure like the Port Mann Bridge, Alex Fraser Bridge, and George Massey Tunnel through various regional subsidiaries. Mainroad provides comprehensive services from routine maintenance and snow removal to major construction projects, bridge rehabilitation, and traffic management services. With headquarters and operations centers strategically located across Western Canada, the company combines traditional maintenance expertise with construction capabilities, handling everything from ACROW bridge installations to specialized highway construction projects.

N.P.A. (Colas Western Canada Inc.)

N.P.A., a division of Colas Western Canada Inc., stands as one of Western Canada’s largest paving contractors, providing comprehensive road construction and materials services throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories from its Edmonton headquarters. The company offers an integrated suite of services including aggregate production and gravel sales, granular placement, asphalt paving, underground utilities, concrete and ready-mix supply, plus airport and highway construction through its group of operating companies including E-Construction, G&C Asphalt, NWT Construction, and Wapiti Gravel Suppliers.

Superior Asphalt Paving Ltd.

Superior Asphalt Paving Ltd. represents the success story of family-owned businesses in Canada’s paving industry, founded by Kuldeep Singh Lalli in 1975 starting with just one man in a pickup truck. Based in British Columbia, the company has expanded to become one of the largest paving companies in the province, with over 40 years of experience and more than 1 million miles paved. Superior specializes in residential, commercial, agricultural, and municipal paving projects, covering everything from farm roads and driveways to highways and parking lots throughout the Lower Mainland and beyond.

Volker Stevin Canada

Volker Stevin Canada specializes in civil construction and rehabilitation, highway maintenance, civil works, and bridge construction across Western Canada and the northwestern United States. The company has established productive partnerships with local and regional groups throughout Western Canada, serving municipalities requiring construction and civil works, companies needing infrastructure development, and major highway projects of all sizes. Known for exceptional employee retention in an industry with typically high turnover rates, Volker Stevin takes pride in having employees who have stayed with the company for many years, with some exceeding 50 years of service.

Key Takeaways:

• The GTAA has chosen the Pearson Accelerator Construction Team—Kenaidan, Alberici, Amico and Obayashi—to deliver the initial “Accelerator” phase of the airport’s LIFT program under a progressive design-build model.
• A separate procurement is now open for the T1/T3 Revitalization, giving design-build teams a chance to bid on large-scale interior, systems and commercial upgrades to Pearson’s two busiest terminals.
• With traffic projected to reach roughly 65 million passengers by the early 2030s, the decade-long LIFT program is expected to generate thousands of skilled-trade and professional positions and a steady pipeline of MERX tenders for contractors and suppliers.

The Whole Story:

Toronto Pearson International Airport has tapped a Canadian-led consortium to deliver the first construction package in its multi-billion-dollar LIFT overhaul and has opened bidding for a sweeping makeover of Terminals 1 and 3.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority said the Pearson Accelerator Construction Team — a general partnership of Kenaidan Contracting Ltd., Alberici Constructors Ltd., Amico Major Projects Inc. and Obayashi Canada Ltd. — will plan, design and build the “Accelerator” phase, which includes early air-side, utility and building-systems upgrades. The four firms, which together have worked on more than 170 airport projects worldwide, will be supported by a design joint venture of Egis Canada and Mott MacDonald, with architectural and engineering input from Weston Williamson + Partners, WSP Canada and Woods Bagot.

The work will proceed under a progressive design-build contract, a collaborative model the GTAA says should speed decisions and keep costs in check.

At the same time, the authority has launched a competitive procurement for the T1/T3 Revitalization program — a project to renew passenger-processing areas, building systems and commercial space in Pearson’s two oldest terminals. Tender documents are posted on the MERX platform, with a shortlist to follow in 2026.

“These three major milestones are advancements of Pearson LIFT, investing in Canadian infrastructure to position Toronto Pearson to compete well into the future,” GTAA president and chief executive Deborah Flint said in a statement. “Protecting and reinforcing Canada’s global connectivity is critical to strengthening supply chains, and fueling growth of Canadian innovation, business and jobs.”

Pearson handled 46.8 million passengers last year, up 4.4 per cent from 2023, and expects traffic to climb to about 65 million by the early 2030s. The LIFT program, which follows the 2004 opening of Terminal 1, is meant to add capacity, modernize aging assets and cut emissions through more efficient building systems. The GTAA says the effort will generate thousands of skilled-trade and professional jobs over the next decade, with future construction packages to be advertised on MERX.

Key Takeaways:

• Suncor has completed a $1-billion project to replace eight massive coke drums at its Base Plant, extending the life of its Upgrader 1 facility by about 30 years.
• The multi-year project, which began in 2020, was completed ahead of schedule and under budget, with all major design, fabrication, and execution work done in Alberta.
• In addition to replacing the coke drums, Suncor upgraded foundations, piping, and safety systems—demonstrating its ability to execute large-scale infrastructure projects while supporting local industry.

The Whole Story:

Suncor Energy has completed a major infrastructure overhaul at its Base Plant near Fort McMurray, replacing eight massive coke drums in a multi-year project that will extend the life of its Upgrader 1 (U1) facility by approximately 30 years.

The project, which began in 2020, followed an extensive research and evaluation phase to determine whether the aging facility should be repaired or replaced. “After completing our research, we decided that replacing the coke drums was the best solution for our long-term business needs,” said Ryan Jackson, general manager of the Coke Drum Integrity Project. “Replacing the drums and ancillary systems, strengthening the foundations and structure and implementing extensive safety improvements will extend the U1 coker’s life by approximately 30 years.”

Each of the new drums stands 98 feet tall, measures 26 feet in diameter and weighs 270 tonnes. Lifting them into place required the Mammoet PTC210DS, one of the largest cranes in the world.

In addition to the coke drums themselves, crews replaced the cutting decks and decoking systems—modular steel structures the height of a two- to three-storey building that sit above the drums. These components were also fabricated in Alberta and transported to site from Nisku, just outside of Edmonton.

The work was carried out during scheduled maintenance events, including the 2024 Base Plant turnaround, when teams from Suncor and contractor partners reinforced the drum foundations, built up the main coke pit walls, and completed extensive piping changes.

“This project is a testament to the strength of our team and unrelenting focus on operations excellence,” said Peter Zebedee, Suncor’s executive vice-president of oil sands. “Everything went flawlessly, resulting in the project being completed safely, coming in ahead of schedule and below budget.”

Suncor emphasized the project’s strong Alberta roots. “We are very proud of being able to engage Alberta-based companies for the project,” said Stephane Gagnon, vice-president of operations upgrading. “The coke drums were engineered in Calgary and largely fabricated in Edmonton, making this a made-in-Alberta, by-Alberta, for-Alberta project.”

Although the effort involved work on a global scale, the design, engineering, fabrication and execution were all completed locally. In total, Suncor invested approximately $1 billion in the initiative, underscoring its long-term commitment to its oil sands operations and to maintaining a reliable supply of energy for Canadians.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario has awarded a contract to North End Connectors to design and build the twin tunnels for the Yonge North Subway Extension, marking a major milestone in the province’s $70-billion transit expansion plan.
• The extension will connect Toronto’s Line 1 subway to Vaughan, Markham, and Richmond Hill, supporting over 90,000 daily trips and reducing travel times by up to 22 minutes.
• Officials say the project will create thousands of jobs, stimulate economic growth, and help shield Ontario’s economy from global uncertainty and trade pressures.

The Whole Story:

A $1.4-billion contract has been awarded to North End Connectors, a consortium led by Aecon Group Inc., to design and build the tunnels for the Yonge North Subway Extension — a key part of Ontario’s $70-billion transit expansion in the Greater Toronto Area.

The project reached financial close with Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx this week. Aecon, which holds a 33.3 per cent interest in the consortium, announced that its $477-million share of the contract will be added to its Construction segment backlog in the third quarter of 2025. The company had previously disclosed the deal in its second-quarter financial results released July 31.

North End Connectors — comprised of Aecon, Spain-based FCC Construcción and Italian firm Ghella — will be responsible for constructing approximately 6.3 kilometres of tunnel, launch and extraction shafts, headwalls for future emergency exits and stations, and supplying and installing tunnel boring machines and liners. The extension will ultimately run 8 kilometres from the current terminus at Finch Station to Richmond Hill, passing through communities in Vaughan and Markham.

“This transformative subway extension will improve access to transit for local residents, reduce travel times, support economic growth, and help to meet the needs of growing populations along the alignment,” said Jean-Louis Servranckx, Aecon’s president and CEO.

Premier Doug Ford called the Yonge North Subway Extension a cornerstone of the province’s broader transit plan, which includes four priority projects in the GTA.

“As we get shovels in the ground on this critical project, we’re helping keep thousands of workers on the job and we’re building the infrastructure that will boost Ontario’s economy and help thousands of York Region commuters get where they need to go faster and more conveniently,” Ford said in a statement.

The province estimates the extension will support over 90,000 daily trips and reduce some commutes by up to 22 minutes. Once complete, it will bring 26,000 more people within a 10-minute walk of transit.

Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the investment will help protect Ontario’s economy in the face of global uncertainty and trade pressures, pointing to the impact of ongoing U.S. tariffs on the province.

“We are building the next generation of subway service that will connect Ontarians to thousands of good-paying jobs and housing for years to come,” said Sarkaria.

Design work is now underway, with major tunnelling to begin afterward. A separate procurement will cover the construction of stations, tracks and systems. Utility relocations and other preparatory work have also begun. Upgrades at Finch Station, intended to support the future extension, were recently completed.

“This project is part of one of the largest investments the federal government has made in public transit in the Greater Toronto Area,” said Willowdale MP Ali Ehsassi. “Once complete, it will be a vital link to greater opportunities, supporting a more affordable and connected York Region.”

York Region Chair and CEO Eric Jolliffe said continued investment from all levels of government is essential to keep pace with population growth and support economic development.

Key Takeaways:

• Major transformation of Bonaventure Expressway begins in September 2025, converting it into a green urban boulevard with completion expected by 2029.
• $282 million project includes a shoreline green corridor featuring 32,000 new plants, a 2.5 km year-round multi-use path, and measures to protect the St. Lawrence River.
• Traffic capacity and flow will be maintained, with at least two lanes open in each direction during construction and a reduced speed limit to improve safety.

The Whole Story:

A major overhaul of the Bonaventure Expressway is set to begin this September, as federal Crown corporation The Jacques Cartier and Champlain Bridges Incorporated (JCCBI) launches work to convert the highway into an urban boulevard with a strong focus on green space and active transportation.

Site mobilization will begin in late August, with the full reconfiguration expected to take until 2029. The project comes with a total price tag of $282 million, of which $156.2 million is allocated for construction. Quebec-based firm Duroking Construction has been awarded the contract following a public procurement process.

JCCBI said at least two lanes in each direction will remain open throughout the construction period to keep traffic moving on one of Montreal’s key roadways.

The transformation will see the expressway’s footprint reduced as traffic lanes are moved farther from the St. Lawrence River, making way for an 80,000-square-metre green corridor along the shoreline. The corridor will feature public spaces, landscaped areas, and year-round active mobility infrastructure, including a 2.5-kilometre pedestrian promenade and multi-use path connecting the West Island and South Shore to the Old Port and downtown core.

“We are delighted to reach this milestone in a journey that began several years ago,” said JCCBI CEO Sandra Martel, noting the project emerged from a participatory planning process launched in 2019 that included consultations with nearly 30 public interest groups.

As part of the redevelopment, nearly 32,000 trees, shrubs and perennials will be planted, with landscaping designed to enhance biodiversity and reduce urban heat islands by 40 per cent. The project will also maintain or expand existing environmental initiatives, such as the Solution Bonaventure program, which has been treating contaminated groundwater along the shoreline since 2016.

While the speed limit will be reduced to 50 km/h to improve pedestrian safety, road capacity will remain at three lanes in each direction. Three new signalized intersections will also be added to improve access and safety along the corridor.

The Bonaventure Expressway currently handles more than 20 million trips annually and connects downtown Montreal with the Port of Montreal, Highway 15, and the Samuel De Champlain Bridge.

Key Takeaways:

• Construction has begun on the Wije’winen Friendship Centre in Halifax, a new cultural and service hub for urban Indigenous communities, marked by a traditional Mi’kmaw sprouting ceremony.
• The centre will provide essential programming in health, education, employment, and cultural preservation, and features unique design elements like a ceremonial chamber with a wood-burning fireplace and landscaping that reflects Mi’kmaw heritage.
• Led by the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society and built by Pomerleau, the project emphasizes reconciliation, Indigenous participation, and community empowerment.

The Whole Story:

Construction has officially begun on a new Indigenous cultural and service hub in Halifax following a traditional Mi’kmaw sprouting ceremony held Wednesday.

The Wije’winen Friendship Centre, led by the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society (MNFS), is designed to serve urban Indigenous communities in Halifax—also known as Kjipuktuk—and across Mi’kma’ki. The facility will offer programming in health, education, employment, and cultural preservation.

The ceremony, which marks the symbolic beginning of the project, opened with remarks from Elder Deb Eisen and a prayer from Elder Jane Meader, Mi’kmaw Knowledge Keeper. Dignitaries and community members then participated in a sprouting ceremony, which in Mi’kmaw tradition signifies renewal, growth and new beginnings.

“Today marks a powerful milestone in our shared journey,” said Pam Glode Desrochers, executive director of the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre. “With Pomerleau’s leadership guiding us through this pivotal phase … we honour the ancestors who walked this path before us—and reaffirm our commitment to supporting our community, today and for generations to come.”

Pomerleau, one of Canada’s largest construction firms, is overseeing the build.

“This is more than a construction project: it’s a commitment to reconciliation and community empowerment,” said Lorin Robar, regional vice-president for Atlantic Canada at Pomerleau.

Among those in attendance were Regional Chief Andrea Paul of the Assembly of First Nations; Chief Deborah Robinson of Wasoqopa’q First Nation–Acadia First Nation; federal Minister Lena Diab, MP for Halifax West; and Nova Scotia Minister of L’nu Affairs Leah Martin.

The project features mass timber construction, ceramic panel cladding and green roofing. A ceremonial chamber will house a wood-burning fireplace—an uncommon feature in commercial buildings on the Halifax peninsula and one that required special city approval. Landscaping plans include a restored bog ecosystem reflecting Mi’kmaw heritage.

Pomerleau says the project will meet high environmental and safety standards, with an emphasis on Indigenous participation and community engagement.

Founded nearly 60 years ago, Pomerleau operates more than 200 construction sites across Canada and employs over 5,000 people.

Key Takeaways:

• Province signs $200M agreement with Haisla Nation to support electrification of Cedar LNG.
• Project will include construction of new transmission and distribution infrastructure.
• Cedar LNG is the world’s first Indigenous majority-owned LNG facility, slated to open in 2028.

The Whole Story:

The B.C. government has signed a $200-million agreement with Haisla Nation to support the electrification of the Cedar LNG project, a floating natural gas terminal set to be the first Indigenous majority-owned facility of its kind in the world.

The provincial funding will help build key infrastructure needed to power the project with clean electricity, including a 287-kilovolt transmission line, a new substation, distribution lines and nearshore electrification. The goal is to make Cedar LNG one of the lowest-emitting liquefied natural gas facilities globally.

Premier David Eby said the investment will help bolster B.C.’s economy while reducing exposure to foreign political instability and climate risk.

“By supporting Haisla Nation to power Cedar LNG with clean B.C. electricity, we’re taking another step in building a stronger economy that’s less exposed to reckless decisions made in the White House,” Eby said in a statement.

The federal government previously announced its own $200-million contribution to the project, bringing total public support for electrification to $400 million.

Haisla Nation Elected Chief Maureen Nyce said the support enables the Nation to advance development in its territory in line with its environmental values.

“Our vision for Cedar LNG was always predicated on being able to source the cleanest power option,” she said. “When Indigenous communities lead projects as owners, we are able to ensure that these projects are developed in the most environmentally responsible manner.”

Cedar LNG, a partnership between Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation, will be located near Kitimat and is expected to create up to 500 jobs during peak construction and employ about 100 people once operational. The facility is slated to begin operations in late 2028.

Energy Minister Adrian Dix said the project serves as a model for how economic reconciliation and climate action can go hand-in-hand.

“This agreement supports economic reconciliation, while creating a more energy-independent province, which is urgently needed during the current global and political climates,” he said.

Key Takeaways

• The First Nations Bank of Canada has announced its largest financing deal to date, supporting the Lílwat Nation’s Tseqwtsúqum development in Whistler, B.C.
• The Indigenous-led project will deliver commercial space and workforce housing in the Function Junction area.
• The initiative marks a significant step in economic reconciliation, Indigenous self-determination, and long-term employment for the region.

The Whole Story

A major Indigenous-led development in Whistler has received a significant financial boost through a partnership between the First Nations Bank of Canada and the Canada Infrastructure Bank.

The Lílwat Business Group (LBG), the economic arm of the Lílwat Nation, is receiving funding for the Tseqwtsúqum (pronounced Chek-choo-koom) project—an ambitious new village development in Function Junction that will include commercial space and workforce housing.

The financing marks the largest deal to date under the First Nations Bank’s Indigenous Land Development Loan Program, created to support Indigenous communities by lowering financial barriers to land development.

“This kind of Indigenous-led development is exactly what economic reconciliation looks like, empowering Nations to lead, build, and thrive on their own terms,” said Bill Lomax, president and CEO of First Nations Bank of Canada.

The first phase of Tseqwtsúqum is intended to help address pressing infrastructure and housing needs in the Whistler region, while generating long-term employment opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents.

Rosemary Stager, CEO of the Lílwat Business Group, called the project a “major milestone” for the Nation.

“Tseqwtsúqum is the largest project to date for LBG and exemplifies our commitment to building a strong, self-sustaining future that honours our cultural values,” said Stager. “This is more than a financial transaction. It’s a step toward reconciliation, opportunity, and self-determination.”

Canada Infrastructure Bank CEO Ehren Cory said the project aligns with its broader mission of supporting Indigenous infrastructure.

“In addition to supplying housing to a region with high demand, Lílwat Nation businesses and community members across generations will benefit through long-term employment and cultural revitalization opportunities,” Cory said.

The Lílwat Business Group operates across several sectors, including retail, forestry and construction, and aims to grow a sustainable economy for the Lílwat Nation while reinforcing cultural presence in traditional territories such as Pemberton and Whistler.

Key Takeaways:

• Alberta is investing $114.6 million in 86 infrastructure projects to support roads, bridges, airports, and water systems in small and rural communities across the province.
• Major grants include $8.9 million for Brooks’ new wastewater plant, $3.6 million for a bridge near Innisfail, and $3.5 million for a rail extension in Coaldale.
• Officials emphasize the importance of rural infrastructure for economic growth, community resilience, and long-term sustainability.

The Whole Story:

Alberta’s government is investing $114.6 million in transportation and water infrastructure projects across rural parts of the province, aiming to boost economic development and support growing communities.

The funding, announced Friday, will support 86 projects in municipalities through three programs: the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP), the Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater Partnership (AMWWP), and the Water for Life program. These grants will fund local roads, bridges, community airports, water supply systems and wastewater treatment facilities.

“Rural Alberta is the backbone of our province, driving economic growth, feeding the world and strengthening our communities,” said Premier Danielle Smith. “We’re investing in the infrastructure rural communities need to grow and thrive.”

Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen said Budget 2025 includes targeted investments to ensure effective rural infrastructure that supports long-term prosperity.

Of the 86 approved projects, 51 fall under STIP and will receive $41 million in total. Notable projects include:

• $2.6 million for Range Road 150 in Newell County, west of Brooks, to help develop a key truck route.
• $2.5 million for runway upgrades at the Lac La Biche CYLB airport.
• $3.6 million for replacing a bridge over the Little Red Deer River near Innisfail.
• $3.5 million for a rail extension project in Coaldale, allowing local producers to export agrifood goods more efficiently.

Another $73.6 million will go toward 35 water and wastewater projects in small and rural municipalities.

The largest single grant, $8.9 million, will go to the City of Brooks to construct a mechanical membrane bioreactor wastewater treatment plant, replacing the community’s aging lagoon system.

“This project will help us meet the needs of a growing population, support economic development and ensure long-term sustainability,” said Brooks Mayor John Petrie.

Other highlights include:

• $2.4 million for improvements to the Wabasca Water Treatment Plant.
• $923,000 for new water wells in Sylvan Lake to increase supply and ensure access to clean drinking water.
• $14.8 million for the Darwell Lagoon Commission to expand wastewater capacity and protect local watersheds.
• $1.6 million to connect reservoirs in Didsbury and Carstairs to a regional water supply for both residential use and firefighting.

Kara Westerlund, president of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta, welcomed the investments.

“Rural municipalities are the backbone of Alberta’s economy,” she said. “We look forward to building on this progress through sustained, collaborative partnership.”

The province says the funding reflects its broader commitment under Budget 2025 to meet the infrastructure needs of a growing population while supporting health care, education, and job creation.

Key Takeaways:

• A $386-million BC Cancer centre is under construction in Kamloops, bringing radiation therapy and expanded oncology services to patients closer to home by 2028.
• The facility at Royal Inland Hospital will house three linear accelerators, a CT simulator, MRI, and space for 16,500 treatments annually, reducing long-distance travel for up to 1,200 patients a year.
• EllisDon is leading construction, with costs shared by the province and Thompson Regional Hospital District, and additional upgrades planned for Royal Inland’s existing oncology clinic and pharmacy by 2029.

The Whole Story:

Construction has begun on a $386-million BC Cancer centre in Kamloops that will bring radiation treatment and expanded oncology services to the Thompson-Cariboo-Shuswap region, reducing the need for patients to travel to Kelowna or the Lower Mainland for care.

Located at the Westlands site at Royal Inland Hospital, the facility will feature three linear accelerators for radiation therapy, a CT simulator, diagnostic MRI, ambulatory care space, and an interfaith sacred space for patients and families. Once operational in 2028, the centre is expected to provide about 16,500 radiation treatments annually to 1,200 patients and handle 7,500 consults and follow-up appointments.

“This new BC Cancer centre in Kamloops is the single largest capital investment into the expansion of cancer care in the region,” said Infrastructure Minister Bowinn Ma, noting it will “help more people have access to high-quality cancer care closer to home.”

The project, led by EllisDon Corp., also includes upgrades and expansion to Royal Inland’s community oncology clinic and pharmacy, scheduled for completion in 2029. Costs are being shared by the province and the Thompson Regional Hospital District, and the facility will be operated by BC Cancer in partnership with Interior Health.

Key Takeaways:

• Pomerleau has enlisted Abitibi Connex and Pinnacle Logistics to coordinate materials for the $1.8‑billion WAHA Redevelopment Project, which will deliver new health care facilities in Moosonee and Moose Factory by 2030.
• The project will use a redeveloped paper mill site in Iroquois Falls as a logistics hub, with Ontario Northland Rail upgrading 11.5 km of track to move roughly 3,000 rail cars of materials north over three years.
• The effort will create about 120 jobs during peak construction while bringing modern, culturally tailored health care closer to remote James Bay and Hudson Bay communities.

The Whole Story:

Pomerleau has tapped Abitibi Connex and Pinnacle Logistics Solutions Ltd. to coordinate material deliveries for the $1.8-billion Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) Redevelopment Project, a major health care initiative serving Ontario’s James Bay and Hudson Bay coasts.

The project, set for completion in 2030, will include a 36-bed hospital and long-term Elder Care Lodge in Moosonee, along with an ambulatory care centre in Moose Factory. The new facilities will provide emergency, acute, and specialty care designed to reflect local culture and reduce the need for residents to travel hundreds of kilometres for treatment.

Material transfers began this month through Abitibi Connex, a former paper mill in Iroquois Falls redeveloped by BMI Group and Dutch investors Business-EQ. Ontario Northland Rail is upgrading an 11.5-kilometre rail spur to link the hub with the Cochrane junction, where materials will be transported north.

The logistics operation is expected to handle roughly 3,000 rail cars over three years and create about 120 jobs at peak construction. Pinnacle Logistics said the centralized hub is key to delivering infrastructure to such a remote region.

“This partnership demonstrates the complex logistics coordination needed for major northern development, and the success partnerships like this bring to them,” said Frank Devries, principal and general manager of Pinnacle Logistics Solutions.

John Veldman, chief operating officer of BMI Group, said repurposing the former mill site for the project highlights how existing infrastructure can be leveraged to unlock development in Canada’s near north and Arctic regions.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the launch of Abitibi Connex will be held on July 25 in Iroquois Falls.

Key Takeaways:

• Teck Resources will invest between $2.1 and $2.4 billion to extend the life of Highland Valley Copper in B.C., keeping Canada’s largest copper mine operating until 2046.
• The project will sustain about 1,500 existing jobs, create 2,900 construction jobs, and generate roughly $935 million in GDP during construction and ongoing operations.
• Indigenous governments, including the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly, will play a central role in oversight and decision-making, setting a new precedent for major project development in Canada.

The Whole Story:

Teck Resources Ltd. says it will spend up to $2.4 billion to extend the life of British Columbia’s Highland Valley Copper mine, a move that will keep Canada’s largest copper operation running until 2046 and support thousands of jobs in the province.

The Highland Valley Copper Mine Life Extension project, approved by Teck’s board this week, will extend production by nearly two decades and is billed as the largest critical minerals investment in B.C.’s history. The mine, which employs about 1,500 people and contributes roughly $500 million annually to provincial GDP, is expected to maintain those operations while creating an additional 2,900 jobs and $435 million in GDP during construction.

“This extension of Canada’s largest copper mine is foundational to our strategy to double copper production by the end of the decade,” said Jonathan Price, Teck’s president and CEO. “With strong demand for copper as an energy transition metal, this project will secure access to this critical mineral for the next two decades and continue the economic and community benefits Highland Valley Copper brings.”

Teck says the mine will produce an average of 132,000 tonnes of copper annually over the life of the project. Construction is set to begin in August, with engineering nearly 70 per cent complete and major permits already secured. The capital investment, expected between $2.1 and $2.4 billion, will cover infrastructure upgrades, mine fleet expansion, grinding circuit improvements, and enhanced power, water and tailings facilities.

B.C. Premier David Eby called the expansion a major boost for the provincial economy. “This multi-billion dollar project represents 2,900 new jobs and a $500 million increase to GDP,” he said. “It’s just one example of how British Columbia can drive our country’s economy forward even in challenging times.”

Indigenous leaders say the project reflects a new model for development. Christine Walkem, chair of the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly and chief of the Cook’s Ferry Indian Band, said the eight participating bands have embedded their laws and governance into the project’s environmental assessment and oversight. “Our communities are not bystanders to development — we are decision-makers,” she said. “Our laws must continue to guide the process, and our people must share in the benefits now and for generations to come.”

The federal government also hailed the investment as a way to solidify Canada’s role as a global supplier of critical minerals. “By extending the life of Canada’s largest copper mine, we are strengthening our critical minerals sector here at home and becoming the international supplier of choice,” said Tim Hodgson, minister of energy and natural resources.

The Highland Valley Copper operation, wholly owned by Teck, will move through three mining phases, starting with existing pits through 2027, followed by development of satellite orebodies and a major pushback of the Valley pit between 2028 and 2033, before transitioning to high-grade ore from the Valley pit through 2046.

Teck says capital spending will be staged from the second half of 2025 through 2028, with detailed production and spending guidance to be updated in January 2026.

Key Takeaways:

• Manitoba and Saskatchewan have signed a five‑year deal with Arctic Gateway Group to expand the Port of Churchill and boost exports of Prairie commodities such as grain, minerals and energy.
• The agreement will see investments in port and rail upgrades, a longer Hudson Bay shipping season, and federal funding efforts to improve northern trade connectivity.
• The deal is positioned as a step toward diversifying Canada’s trade routes, strengthening Arctic sovereignty, and generating benefits for Indigenous and northern ownership communities.

The Whole Story:

Manitoba and Saskatchewan have signed a five-year agreement with Arctic Gateway Group to expand infrastructure and boost exports through the Port of Churchill, Canada’s only deepwater Arctic port.

The memorandum of understanding, announced Tuesday by premiers Wab Kinew and Scott Moe at the Council of the Federation’s summer meeting, aims to transform Churchill into a key trade corridor for Prairie commodities such as grain, minerals and energy.

Under the deal, Arctic Gateway Group will invest in port and rail upgrades and work to lengthen the Hudson Bay shipping season. Saskatchewan will engage commodity producers and exporters through its trade offices and industry networks, while Manitoba will lead efforts to secure federal funding and regulatory support to improve northern connectivity.

“Churchill presents huge opportunities when it comes to mining, agriculture and energy,” Kinew said. “Through this agreement with AGG and Saskatchewan, we are going to unlock new opportunities for businesses in Manitoba and Saskatchewan to get goods to market.”

Moe said streamlining access to Churchill will help Prairie exporters reach new and emerging international markets, while AGG CEO Chris Avery called the agreement a “clear signal” that the Arctic corridor will play a central role in Canada’s trade and transportation strategy.

The partnership, which includes annual progress reviews, is also framed as a boost to Arctic sovereignty and reconciliation, with profits from the port returning to AGG’s Indigenous and northern ownership communities.