Category: Projects

Key Takeaways:

• $13.8 million will be distributed to the towns of Banff, Sylvan Lake, Bow Island, Westlock, Smoky Lake and the Village of Duchess.
• The plan is to fast track a combined total of over 400 homes over the next three years. 
• Officials expect the work will help spur the construction of more than 3,100 homes over the next decade.

The Whole Story:

The Government of Canada and the Towns of Banff, Sylvan Lake, Bow Island, Westlock, Smoky Lake and the Village of Duchess announced that they reached agreements to fast track a combined total of over 400 homes over the next three years. 

Officials expect the work will help spur the construction of more than 3,100 homes over the next decade.

These agreements under the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), will provide a combined total of over $13.8 million to eliminate barriers to building homes. 

Banff will receive more than $4.6 million to support its Action Plan which commits to five local initiatives that enable a variety of housing forms and densities.

The funding will enable the reduction of parking requirements, as well as updates to the density intensification policy. Banff’s Action Plan aims to encourage the development of accessory dwelling units by providing financial support and streamlined processing and will incentivize more housing development by creating a suite of financial tools such as tax strategies and fee waivers. Additionally, Banff will unlock efficiencies in the town’s permitting process.

HAF asks for innovative action plans from local governments, and once approved, provides upfront funding to ensure the timely building of new homes, as well as additional funds upon delivering results. Local governments are encouraged to think big and be bold in their approaches, which could include accelerating project timelines, allowing increased housing density, and encouraging affordable housing units.

“Today’s announcement will help fast-track a combined total of over 400 homes in Banff, Sylvan Lake, Bow Island, Westlock, Duchess and Smoky Lake over the next three years and over 3,100 homes over the next decade,” said Sean Fraser, minister of housing, infrastructure and communities. “By working with cities, towns, municipalities, mayors, and all levels of government, we are helping to get more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford.”

Key Takeaways:

• Freed Developments plans to build an $800-million tower in Toronto.
• The building will include hotel and residential units as well as a restaurant.
• The Freed Hotel and Residences is scheduled to begin sales in March 2024 and will be located at 240 Adelaide Street West.

The Whole Story:

Peter Freed of Freed Developments has announced plans to build the Freed Hotel and Residences tower in Toronto.

The developer says the $800-million skyscraper is being designed by Chicago-based tall building experts Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture (AS+GG), known for the next world’s tallest and skyscraper Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia, as well as Central Park Tower in New York.

The project will feature 100 five star luxury hotel rooms and 400 luxury condominiums with a skybar/restaurant on the 63rd floor, boutique spa, and a 10,000 sq ft Katsuya Restaurant on the 2nd floor.

“As the largest owner and operator of the Ontario hotel and resorts portfolio, this project is a testament to my profound love for Toronto. Freed Hotel and Residences represents a groundbreaking moment for Freed Developments with the opportunity to merge art, culture, and sophistication through hotel-style living,” said Peter Freed, founder and CEO, Freed Developments. “Building on Freed’s 30 year legacy of best-in-class projects, Freed Hotel and Residences will proudly display a captivating piece of artwork by Takashi Murakami, adding a unique cultural dimension to this venture, while also bringing forward the first-ever Katsuya Restaurant to Canada which will further enhance the city’s culinary landscape, and best-in-class hotel experiences for both residences and guests.”

Sam Nazarian’s sbe, a lifestyle hospitality company that develops, manages and operates restaurants, lounges and nightclubs, announced the project will also include the very first Katsuya restaurant in Canada on the second floor of the Freed Hotel and Residences, expected to launch in Fall 2028.

“Freed Hotel and Residences will bring an unprecedented sophistication and luxury that is a signature of Freed Developments in Toronto. Located at the corner of Adelaide and Duncan Streets, the tower will offer residents and visitors spectacular views of the city and Lake Ontario. The tower shines against the city’s already impressive skyline, becoming an instant icon.” said AS+GG Partner Gordon Gill, FAIA. “The formal geometry of the tower is defined by both its arrival and skyline expressions. Diamond shaped facets create a distinctive arrival and retail experience at street level, while the complimentary faceted silhouette of the tower’s top creates an iconic identity within the Toronto skyline. The tower boasts luxurious hotel and residential functions with abundant amenities including terraced, outdoor garden spaces.”

Toronto’s DesignAgency will lead the interior design of Freed Hotel and Residences.

“Freed Hotel and Residences is already an iconic project. By assembling a world-class creative team, Peter Freed has set the stage for innovation and imagination on a grand scale. Together with these exceptional collaborators, DesignAgency is excited to explore new realms of possibility to create immersive interiors that exude great wonder and style,” says Anwar Mekhayech, Founding Partner, DesignAgency.

Key features of the Freed Hotel and Residences project include:

• Freed Hotel Debut: Freed Hotel and Residences marks the introduction of the first-ever Freed hotel in Canada.
• Multi-Functional Tower: The project will feature 100 hotel rooms and 400 condominiums with a Skybar/restaurant on the 63rd floor.
• Katsuya, Contemporary Japanese Restaurant: The hotel will house the Katsuya Japanese restaurant by Sam Nazarian’s Disruptive Group by sbe on the second floor.
• Takashi Murakami Art Integration: Takashi Murakami’s “Together with the flower parent and child” artwork will be featured inside the lobby of the first-ever Freed Hotel and Residences.
• Amenities include: 62nd floor Sky Lobby with grand staircase leading to 63rd floor restaurant and bar featuring 70 ft tall space below a sloping skylight, boutique spa, terrace and outdoor garden, private spaces for entertaining and dining, fitness and yoga studio, private theater room, valet parking and full-service concierge, and more.

Over the past 30 years, Freed Developments has completed $10 billion of developed projects in Toronto. Its portfolio includes luxurious modern condominium projects, F&B ventures, resort communities, and commercial spaces, led by the Founder and CEO Peter Freed. Some notable projects are the Art Shoppe Lofts and Condos in collaboration with Karl Lagerfeld, Seventy5 Portland with globally renowned designer Philippe Starck, Fashion House on King Street West, and the Thompson Hotel.

In addition, Freed Hotel & Resorts is now the largest owner and operator of hotel and resort communities in Canada, which includes properties at Muskoka Bay Resort, Deerhurst Resort, Horseshoe Resort, and Blue Mountain Resort.

The Freed Hotel and Residences is scheduled to begin sales in March 2024 and will be located at 240 Adelaide Street West.

Key Takeaways:

• BC Builds works in partnership with non-profits, local governments, First Nations and the development sector to identify available underused land.
• BC Builds uses lower government borrowing rates to offer lower-cost financing and grants to bring down construction costs.
• The program aims to move projects from concept to construction within 12 to 18 months by streamlining municipal development processes and by working with landowners, municipalities and residential builders to remove barriers.
• All BC Builds units have a target of middle-income households spending no more than approximately 30% of their income on rent.

The Whole Story:

The Province of B.C. has launched BC Builds, a new initiative that leverages government, community and non-profit owned and underused land to build affordable housing projects.

The program is supported by $2 billion in low-cost financing and a commitment of $950 million for the overall program.

“Anyone looking for a place to live knows how hard it is – even if you make a decent salary there are not enough rental homes people can afford,” said Premier David Eby. “The private sector alone has not been able to deliver the homes middle-class people in B.C. need. That’s why we’re taking action through BC Builds to deliver lower-cost middle-income homes, faster, so the people who keep our communities working – like teachers, nurses, and construction workers – can find homes they can afford in the communities they love.”  

Officials noted that Inflation, high interest rates, and the cost of land and construction have driven up costs and rent in B.C. and across the country, and not enough middle-income housing is being built as a result. Too many homes are out of reach for middle-income earners and people are spending more than half of their household income on housing, pushing people out of communities, and making labour shortages worse.

Supported by grant funding and financing from the B.C. government, through BC Housing, BC Builds is designed to deliver through challenging market conditions to bring down building costs, get more projects started, and build more homes that fit into middle-income budgets. The program will focus on rental housing first with rents reflecting local conditions and determined on a community-by-community basis. The goal is to create more below-market rent and have options so households can spend less than 30% of their income on rent.

“Too many middle-class families are struggling to find a place to live that they can afford, and that’s holding people and our economy back,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “BC Builds is designed to meet this moment, overcome challenging market conditions, and deliver lower-cost rental homes for the people who deliver the services we rely on, and drive our economy forward – so they can build good lives here and thrive.”

BC Builds works in partnership with non-profits, local governments, First Nations and the development sector to identify available underused land, provide financing and funding, and deliver projects that create more homes and help bring costs more in line with what middle-income households earn.

BC Builds details include:

• At least 20% of all BC Builds homes will have rents that are at least 20% below market rate for projects in partnership with non-profits and First Nations.
• All BC Builds units have a target of middle-income households spending no more than approximately 30% of their income on rent.
• The rents for BC Builds will not exceed market rent for that community, and will in many cases be below.  
• All households living in BC Builds homes are income tested at move-in.
• The income levels vary by community, so homes are within reach for that community’s middle-income households.
• BC Builds projects aim to deliver more two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, as many as possible with below-market rents.
• Projects owned and operated by non-profit providers mean rents will remain low over time, – creating more affordability.

BC Builds uses lower government borrowing rates to offer lower-cost financing and grants to bring down construction costs. The program also works with municipalities, landowners, residential builders and housing operators to move projects from concept to construction within 12 to 18 months, compared to the current of average of three to five years. This will be accomplished by streamlining municipal development processes and by working with landowners, municipalities and residential builders to remove barriers.

BC Builds is designed to grow. In addition to the sites detailed below, thousands of BC Builds homes will continue to move at an expedited pace as projects are approved over the next three years, with some estimated to be under construction as early as summer 2024. More than 20 initial BC Builds sites have been identified on government, First Nations, non-profit and community-owned land. BC Builds is seeking new partners and landowners who want to build housing on underused land or above new community buildings.

Here are three examples of BC Builds projects:

A site owned by the City of North Vancouver, located at 225 East Second St., being developed by non-profit Catalyst, has development approvals for the following:

• An 18-storey mass timber building that will include 180 units affordable for middle-income households in North Vancouver.

• A minimum of 20% of units must rent at 20% below market, with a goal of delivering even more units at below-market rates.

• The building will be located with the North Shore Neighbourhood House, which provides an extensive range of community services, including 37 child care spaces, child-development support programming for 250 children experiencing development delays, food programs, wellness and recreation activities, and youth and seniors’ programs.
• The project is located beside a new BC Housing project that will deliver 89 affordable homes, set to open in late 2025.

A site owned by Cowichan Tribes, located at 222 Cowichan Way in Duncan on reserve land is being developed by Khowutzun Development LLP. It has development approvals for the following:

• A four-to-six-storey wood-frame building, which will include 199 units for middle-income people and families living in the Cowichan Valley.

• A minimum of 20% of units must rent at 20% below market, with a goal of delivering even more units at below-market rates.

• New governance headquarters for the Cowichan Tribes.

• Space for Indigenous businesses.

A site owned by the Town of Gibsons, located at 571 Shaw Rd., is being developed by non-profit New Commons and will be operated by the Sunshine Coast Affordable Housing Society. It has development approvals for the following:

• A four-storey wood-frame building, which will contain 33 homes ranging from studios to three-bedroom homes.
• A minimum of 20% of units must rent at 20% below market, with a goal of delivering more units at below-market rates.
• The building will also include an early child care centre with 24 child care spaces, encompassing a pre-school daycare and before-and-after school care for eight children.

Key Takeaways:

• In 2023, a record high 15,393 homes were delivered in Calgary, an 11% increase over 2022.
• Last year the city issued 16,505 residential building permits, the highest amount in 10 years.
• Despite these gains, officials say the demand is outpacing the supply. Approximately 65 people move to the city each day.

The Whole Story:

Calgary’s development industry delivered a record high of 15,393 homes in 2023, an increase of 11% over 2022. Similarly, multi-residential homes increased by 49% and secondary suites increased by 43%. 

Officials stated that this increase in the number of homes is the result of 16,505 residential building permits being issued by the City of Calgary in 2023, the highest number issued in the past 10 years. It also led to the highest residential construction value of $4.31 billion for issued building permits over the same time period.

In September 2023, Calgary City Council approved Home is Here – The City of Calgary’s Housing Strategy. 

“Calgary needs more homes. We expect to welcome another 110,000 new Calgarians over the next four years and already one in five households can’t afford their housing,” said Tim Ward, manager of housing solutions, Calgary. “The numbers from 2023 show how much work the development industry is doing in Calgary to get homes built and we look forward to taking action in 2024 to continue that momentum.”

Last year the city accepted applications for 414 land use amendments and outline plans, 7,601 development permits and 21,317 building permits. This activity provided Calgary’s economy with $5.96 billion in residential and non-residential construction value in 2023, a year-over-year increase of 4%. 

“Overall, 2023 was a strong year for construction in Calgary, and we anticipate that 2024 will be another record-breaking year,” said Debra Hamilton, acting general manager with planning and development services. “It is great to see investor confidence in Calgary. However, the demand is outpacing the supply, as we expect to continue welcoming approximately 65 people per day to our city.”

Here are the five largest completed in Calgary last year, demonstrating a $391.2 million investment in housing: 

• Arris Towers, a 42-storey, multi-residential building providing 500 units in East Village, valued at $131.1M. 

• Oliver Tower, a 32-storey residential complex featuring 403 housing units, located in the community of Beltline, valued at $95.6M. 

• Dalhousie Mixed Use Residential, a 15-storey building featuring 269 units in Dalhousie, valued at $78.8M.

• Minto Era Condominiums, a 13-storey, multi-residential building providing 186 units in the community of Crescent Heights, valued at $43 million.

• Riverwalk Senior Living, a 12-storey, 141-unit residential building in Cliff Bungalow, valued at $42.7 million. 

Key Takeaways:

• The Clinical Support and Research Centre will be approximately 34,400 square metres (370,000 square feet) in size and connected with a sky-bridge to the new St. Paul’s Hospital
• The provincial government approved the $638-million research and clinical support centre in 2023. Building design and pre-construction activities are now underway.
• The facility will be approximately 34,400 square metres (370,000 square feet) in size and connected with a sky-bridge to the new St. Paul’s Hospital.

The Whole Story:

Providence Health Care has selected PCL Construction as the construction manager to oversee the Clinical Support and Research Centre (CSRC) project at the new St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver. 

Diamond Schmitt Architects and Kirsten Reite Architecture will be the prime consultant team to lead the design.

“Our government made a commitment to people in B.C. to establish a cutting-edge research centre in the heart of the new St. Paul’s Hospital campus,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Establishing these dynamic, experienced design and construction teams marks an important milestone and moves us closer to the construction of a facility that will enhance patient care through integrating scientific discovery and research into day-to-day clinical practice.”

To select the teams, Providence health issued competitive requests-for-proposals, and carried out extensive evaluations of shortlisted teams.

Gateway to the new St. Paul’s health care campus

“The design approach to St. Paul’s Hospital’s new Clinical Support and Research Centre creates a gateway to the health care campus. Designed as an innovation hub focused on providing flexible clinical spaces and lab spaces to support advancements in life sciences research and cross-disciplinary collaborations, the centre is also envisioned as a community hub and crossroads,” said Don Schmitt, principal, Diamond Schmitt Architects. “A new civic plaza, large outdoor terraces on upper floors and interconnected spaces will enhance accessibility and establish a truly integrated health care facility – a vibrant place of science and social activity in downtown Vancouver.”

The CSRC will be approximately 34,400 square metres (370,000 square feet) in size and connected with a sky-bridge to the new St. Paul’s Hospital, which is under construction. The facility will house key research centres, programs and disciplines. It will also be home to specialty physician practices to complement care provided in the hospital, corporate services space and a 49-space childcare centre.

Building design and pre-construction work underway

“With the donor community’s help, we can realize the full vision of the new St. Paul’s Hospital,” said Dick Vollet, president and CEO, St. Paul’s Foundation. “More than just bricks and mortar, the CSRC will be where life-changing treatments are found as leaders in medicine, life sciences, and technology work together to advance discoveries from the lab to the hospital to communities across B.C. and beyond. Join us today at HelpStPauls.com.”

The provincial government approved the $638-million research and clinical support centre in 2023. The major funding sources include contributions from the provincial government, Providence, St. Paul’s Foundation and ChildCare BC New Spaces Program. Building design and pre-construction activities are now underway.

“PCL is excited to work with Providence Health Care (PHC) as their construction partner on the Clinical Support and Research Centre,” says Jeff Murphy, vice president and district manager, PCL. “We are proud to be a part of this project that provides space for research and health care in the community as we continue our partnership with PHC in the development of the New St. Paul’s Hospital and Health Campus.”

Key Takeaways:

• For almost 100 years the site was home to one of Canada’s largest gravel suppliers and one of the region’s largest industrial sites.
• The development is expected to include about 2,800 homes along with a mixture of commercial buildings and retail spaces.
• Two multifamily buildings are expected to be complete by summer 2026, followed by a waterfront plaza with pubs, wine bars, restaurants, coffee shops, doctors offices, fitness facilities and more.

The Whole Story:

Seacliff Properties and Reliance Properties have broken ground on a $1.2-billion seaside community on Vancouver Island. 

The Beachlands construction will start with a presentation centre, including a coffee shop overlooking the ocean. The building will serve as an architectural gateway, welcoming residents and visitors to a new seaside village in Colwood.

“After seven years of planning, public consultation and various approvals, we are thrilled to put our $1.2 billion investment in motion and start construction of The Beachlands, a world-class seaside community that will contribute much-needed housing, jobs and spending in Colwood and the region,” said Georgia Desjardins, director of development at Seacliff Properties.

A milestone 25 years in the making

According to the city, officials envisioned big things for the property back in 1998 as the industrial gravel operation it was known for began to wind down.

The Beachlands property has a significant history in Colwood. The gravel operation on the site was the area’s largest employer for almost a century. For almost 100 years – from 1910 to 2007 – Producer’s Pit was one of Canada’s largest gravel suppliers and one of the region’s largest industrial sites.

Officials say residents who lived in Colwood before the operation closed may remember the sound of the gravel rumbling along the conveyor belts down to the shoreline to be barged out.

Colwood Council and staff have worked with the development team to advance the community’s vision to make The Beachlands a vibrant seaside community as envisioned in the community-led Colwood Official Community plan.

City officials say Seacliff and Reliance properties $1.2B investment in Colwood aims to boost housing, jobs and the local economy, creating an estimated 10,500 jobs throughout and beyond the build out. Two multifamily buildings are expected to be complete by summer 2026, followed by a waterfront plaza with pubs, wine bars, restaurants, coffee shops, doctors offices, fitness facilities and more.

47 acres of parks and public spaces

The city’s recent Household Prosperity Survey shows that 75% of residents currently actively engage in nature trails and parks weekly.

Based on that data, there have been many discussions about ensuring the parks, trails and public spaces maximize opportunities for people to enjoy this incredible seaside location.   

The Beachlands encompasses 134-acres of oceanfront land and a shoreline that stretches 1.4 kilometres and beyond to the Lagoon Beach.

Colwood staff worked to ensure that more than 47 acres of the property will be dedicated to public parks and green space, including a covered public square, nature trails, and an amphitheatre.

“This is a place where residents and visitors can enjoy the health and wellness benefits of incredible connections to nature, new parks and trails, places to enjoy arts, culture, and social connections, and opportunities to work, live, and play, here in Colwood,” said the city. 

Increasing housing and employment opportunities 

The development is expected to include about 2,800 homes along with a mixture of commercial buildings and retail spaces.

The city’s Household Prosperity survey also revealed that 52% of Colwood residents have embraced hybrid or fully remote work. The Beachlands, along with rapidly growing commercial areas in Royal Bay, Allandale District and Colwood Corners, will provide opportunities to work, live and play in Colwood, immersed in nature and recreation, offering work-life balance and quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

• Groundbreaking is expected in May 2024, with the new patient and surgical tower expected to be operational in 2028.
• Ontario’s total investment in the project is $794 million.
• The 15-storey tower will include 82 patient beds, and 20 operating rooms. It is expected to increase the the University Health Network’s number of completed surgeries by 20%

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government is investing $794 million to the University Health Network’s (UHN) new state-of-the-art patient tower at Toronto Western Hospital (TWH).

“This new tower will help provide modern and high-quality care to the more than 450,000 people who visit Toronto Western Hospital each year,” said Premier Doug Ford. “In Toronto and right across the province, our government is making historic investments for a stronger health care system, with more doctors and nurses, more beds and shorter wait times. We’re bringing convenient care closer to home for more people.”

Once complete in 2028, the new 15-storey tower, located on the current hospital campus on Bathurst Street in downtown Toronto, will add:

• 82 patient beds, including new critical care beds;
• 20 state-of-the-art operating rooms, including three new image-guided operating rooms for complex neurosurgical and spinal procedures; and
• New single patient rooms that are also strategically designed to enhance the hospital’s infection control abilities to easily respond to future public health outbreaks.

With the new funding, UHN will be able to increase the number of surgeries completed by more than 20% over the next 10 years. The tower also includes modern digital infrastructure and a more comfortable space for family members and other visitors.

“Under the leadership of Premier Ford our government is making record investments in hospital infrastructure, expanding hospital capacity across the province with shovels in the ground for over 50 new projects to connect people to the care they need, when they need it,” said Sylvia Jones, deputy premier and minister of health. “The new University Health Network patient and surgical tower at Toronto Western Hospital is just one part of our plan to ensure patients can access world class, convenient care, for years to come.”

DIALOG is the prime consultant providing integrated design services for architecture, clinical planning, interior design, landscape architecture, structural engineering, and mechanical and electrical design in partnership with HH Angus.

DIALOG officials explained that despite a constrained site, the project encompasses around 380,000 gross square feet across 11 clinical program floors, housing 20 operating rooms, including three hybrid ORs with cutting-edge imaging capabilities.

This technology enhances TWH’s capacity for complex surgical procedures, particularly in spine and brain surgery. The surgical services care platform, extending from a new pre-operative care unit (POCU), a medical device reprocessing department (MDRD), to a post-anesthetic care unit (PACU), is the result of intensive collaboration between DIALOG and UHN clinical and support services teams.

While integrating into the existing hospital care fabric, the new tower also serves as TWH’s main entrance and campus gateway. DIALOG says visitors will encounter a thoughtful, calming, and intuitive interior design, with soft, organic forms and natural materials promoting biophilia throughout the project, from the ground floor lobby to inpatient rooms.

“The surgical teams have been diligent in providing input on the design of the new operating rooms,” says Dr. Tom Forbes, UHN’s surgeon-in-chief. “But they have also provided valuable insights for the design of family waiting areas. They see first-hand the impacts of limited quiet space for waiting family members.”

The New Surgical and Patient Tower will look to become net zero, utilizing UHN’s new wastewater energy transfer system for heating, cooling, and hot water. Targeting a 32% energy reduction, initiatives include a high-performing building envelope, LED lighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and efficient air-side energy recovery ventilation units.

The project, located on the southeast corner of Bathurst St. and Nassau St., replacing a surface parking lot, was given a planning grant by the Ontario Government in April 2022. Groundbreaking is expected in May 2024, with the new patient and surgical tower expected to be operational in 2028.

Key Takeaways:

• B.C. has approved the business plan for a $359 million cancer centre at Royal Inland Hospital (RIH). 
• The procurement process is underway. Construction is expected to begin in 2025 and complete in 2028.
• The five-storey facility will be built on the Westlands site on the RIH campus. 

The Whole Story:

Officials have approved the business plan for the new BC Cancer centre at Royal Inland Hospital (RIH) in Kamloops.

“Approval of the business plan is a critical milestone for this crucial project,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “This state-of-the-art cancer centre will benefit patients in Kamloops and the surrounding area by offering the confidence from knowing that we’re building treatment capacity for now and the future.”

The five-storey facility will be built on the Westlands site on the RIH campus. There will be space for radiation treatment, radiation-therapy planning, including a CT Simulator, an outpatient ambulatory-care unit, including 10 exam rooms, and two consultation rooms for radiation-therapy services, an additional MRI suite, and patient arrival and check-in areas. 

The centre will have three linear accelerator vaults. These heavy, concrete structures contain radiation equipment used for cancer-patient treatment. In collaboration with Indigenous partners, there will also be a sacred space for patients, caregivers and staff, with features to support traditional ceremonies.

“This is an exciting step forward in our work to bring new treatment options to this region,” said Dr. Kim Chi, executive vice-president and chief medical officer, BC Cancer. “The new BC Cancer centre in Kamloops will increase our capacity to deliver radiation treatment closer to home for the people of Kamloops and surrounding communities for generations to come.”

A new 470-stall parkade will also be constructed as a part of the centre.

In addition, upgrades to RIH to expand cancer care have also been approved, which includes updating and expanding the pharmacy, and relocation and expansion of the Community Oncology Network clinic from the eighth floor to the main floor with more space and improved access. 

Cancer care delivered through the clinic includes oral and intravenous cancer treatment, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and hormonal therapy. The clinic also provides initial consultation and treatment planning with a medical oncologist, supportive care, followup care and patient education.

The procurement process is underway. Construction is expected to begin in 2025 and complete in 2028. 

The project budget is approximately $359 million, shared between the provincial government, Interior Health and Thompson Regional Hospital District.

Projects are getting bigger, more complex and more expensive, require more and more sophisticated engineering feats.

And with so much infrastructure at stake, this work has never been more important. These projects transport Canadians from one place to another, clean our water, generate our power and ensure that the economy can keep moving forward.

This list includes engineering firms that are lending their brainpower to bring Canada’s mega projects to life.

Klohn Crippen Berger 

Klohn Crippen Berger (KCB) is an engineering, geoscience, and environmental consulting firm with offices in Canada, U.S., U.K., Peru, Brazil, and Australia. They are currently working on one of the largest, most complex projects in the nation, Site C Dam. KCB has been involved in the design, construction support, regulatory, environmental, and procurement support portions of the $16 billion project providing multi-disciplinary engineering services for the main civil works, the generating station and spillways, and the balance of plant contracts. Their work on the site spans decades. From 1989 to 1991, KCB was involved with the preliminary and final design activities. Since 2007, KCB has provided preliminary, optimization, tender and final design engineering services, technical reviews, support services through the environmental assessment process into construction with resident engineering services.

AtkinsRealis

AtkinsRealis, formerly SNC Lavalin, is no stranger to large, complex projects. Started in 1911 by Quebec engineer Arthur Surveyer, they rode the first wave of the electrification revolution. Today, they work on some of the nation’s biggest energy and transportation projects. They’ve worked on the $8 billion Réseau express métropolitain (REM) in Montreal, Eglinton Crosstown LRT, Darlington Refurbishment, Bruce Power Refurbishment, the Ontario Line and more, representing tens of billions in project value. 

Stantec 

Starting as a one-person firm in Edmonton, Stantec has grown to a company of 28,000 employees. And the growth is continuing. Some of its notable projects in Canada include the 100 MW De l’Érable Wind Farm in Quebec, the 152 Shanley Street Redevelopment in Ontario, and the 201 Portage Concourse in Winnipeg. Additionally, Stantec has been engaged in engineering Canada’s largest lithium-ion battery cell plant in B.C. The company also recently announced plans to acquire engineering firm Morrison Hershfield, which will increase its Canadian workforce by approximately 10%.

WSP

WSP, which originally stood for Williams Sale Partnership, was established in 1969 in England by engineer Chris Cole and three other partners. After years of acquisitions and mergers, the company now has its global headquarters in Montreal and works on major Canadian projects. These include the Centre Block Rehabilitation, Eglinton Crosstown LRT, GO Rail Expansion, Calgary’s Green Line and more. Their commitment to the communities they work in have turned heads. Last year they ranked 6th in Corporate Knights’ Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada.

AECOM

When it comes to getting Canadians from one place to another, AECOM is one of the best. They have been involved in the Ontario Line, Gordie Howe International Bridge, Réseau express métropolitain (REM), Edmonton Valley Line, Ottawa LRT and many more. AECOM says it launched when a handful of employees from design and engineering companies shared a dream of creating an industry-leading firm dedicated to delivering a better world. It became an independent company formed by the merger of five entities in the 1990s. While it has offices all over the globe, it’s main headquarters sits in Dallas, Texas.

COWI

COWI, a leading international consulting group, has been involved in many significant projects in Canada. Some of its biggest projects include design for an eight-lane immersed tunnel in Vancouver, the Ontario Line and a major bridge replacement over Alberta’s Chin Coulee Reservoir. While it has a major footprint in North America, COWI was created by 29-year-old engineer Christen Ostenfeld in the 1930s in Copenhagen, Denmark. His firm went on to design some of Denmark’s most iconic buildings of that decade. Today, at any given time, COWI is involved in approximately 9,000 projects across the globe.

Fluor

While this engineering giant’s headquarters is in Texas, it boasts 40,000 employees around the world and it’s contributions to Canada have been substantial. Perhaps its crowning Canadian achievement, Fluor was selected to be part of the engineering, procurement and construction team for LNG Canada, one of the largest projects in the history of the nation. They also have been involved in the Gordie Howe International Bridge, Hamilton LRT, the Jansen Potash Project and many other projects. The company began in 1912 with John Fluor.

Key Takeaways:

• The Victoria Hospital agreement includes the design and construction of a new acute care tower that  features a heliport on the roof, an expanded emergency department, larger operating rooms, pediatrics, maternity, NICU, new medical imaging, and a First Nations and Métis Cultural space.
• Overall capacity at Victoria Hospital, between the new tower and existing facility, will increase 40%, from 173 to 242 beds.  
• Construction on the new tower is expected to begin in spring 2024 with anticipated completion in 2028.
• The design build agreement includes an option to retain services for phased future renovations to the existing facility.

Whole Story:

PCL Construction Management has entered an $898 million agreement to design and build the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital in Saskatchewan. 

The agreement is inclusive of the design and early works agreement awarded through a public procurement to PCL in December 2022.  

“On behalf of PCL Construction and the extended Design Build team, we would like to express how proud and excited we are to deliver the Victoria Hospital project for the Prince Albert, Northern Saskatchewan, and Indigenous communities that this hospital serves,” PCL District Manager Mike Staines said.  

The Victoria Hospital agreement includes design and construction of a new acute care tower connected to, and directly north of the existing facility. The new tower features a heliport on the roof, an expanded emergency department, larger operating rooms, pediatrics, maternity, NICU, new medical imaging, and a First Nations and Métis Cultural space, among other key services. Overall capacity at Victoria Hospital, between the new tower and existing facility, will increase 40 per cent, from 173 to 242 beds.  

Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) is working with the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) on designing the cultural space that will be central to the new main entrance. PCL will engage with local and Indigenous vendors to deliver services for the construction. 

“I am proud that our government is getting this project done and that it is the largest single investment, private or government, in the history of Prince Albert,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister and MLA for Prince Albert Carleton Joe Hargrave said. “This hospital will bring expanded and state of the art service to Prince Albert and the North and will benefit all of Saskatchewan upon completion.”

PCL and the SHA will work to ensure minimal disruption to staff and visitors to the hospital during construction and renovation phases. Patient care is not expected to be impacted.  

The design build agreement includes an option to retain services for phased future renovations to the existing facility.

Site preparation/early works included construction of a new parking lot, which will be paved this spring. Construction on the new tower is expected to begin in spring 2024 with anticipated completion in 2028.

Key Takeaways:

• The initial phase includes engineering and design work as well as securing long-lead components that can require years for manufacturing.
• This phase will last through the end of 2024. All the work is anticipated to be completed by the mid-2030s.
• the refurbishment of Pickering is expected to increase Ontario’s GDP by $19.4 billion over the 11-year project period.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government is supporting Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) plan to proceed with the next steps toward refurbishing Pickering Nuclear Generating Station’s “B” units (units 5-8). Once refurbished, Pickering would produce a total of 2,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity, equivalent to powering two million homes. 

“With global business looking to expand in jurisdictions with reliable, affordable and clean electricity, a refurbished Pickering Nuclear Generating Station would help Ontario compete for and land more game-changing investments,” said Todd Smith, minister of energy. “The refurbishment of Pickering would create thousands of new jobs and help produce at least another 30 years of safe, reliable and clean electricity to power the next major international investment, the new homes we are building and industries as they grow and electrify.”

OPG will now proceed with the project initiation phase of refurbishment which will last through the end of 2024. The government is supporting OPG’s $2 billion budget for this phase which includes engineering and design work as well as securing long-lead components that can require years for manufacturing. By placing orders in advance with key suppliers, OPG will ensure materials are available when Ontario needs them and help keep costs down. OPG and its business partners will also identify potential Indigenous engagement opportunities in contracting, employment and other economic benefits related to the project.

“With new investments and jobs coming to Ontario and the population growing rapidly, our province needs clean and affordable energy that all communities can rely on,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, MPP for Pickering-Uxbridge. “To meet this growing electricity demand, we are expanding Ontario’s generation capacity, conducting Canada’s largest clean energy storage procurement, and expanding energy efficiency programs.”

Based on OPG’s preliminary schedule, the refurbishment of Pickering Nuclear Generation Station is anticipated to be completed by the mid-2030s. According to independent preliminary analysis by the Conference Board of Canada, the refurbishment of Pickering is expected to increase Ontario’s GDP by $19.4 billion over the 11-year project period. The project is also expected to create about 11,000 jobs per year. Post-refurbishment operation of the facility is expected to also create and sustain about 6,410 Ontario jobs per year for decades.

“Today’s announcement is a testament to the highly skilled Pickering Nuclear team, whose focus on safety and performance allows the station to reliably power the equivalent of more than two million Ontario homes,” said Ken Hartwick, OPG president and CEO. “Our experience refurbishing Darlington, a highly complex project that remains on time and on budget, will be invaluable as we begin the work necessary so Pickering can continue to help meet the growing electricity demands of this thriving province for another three-plus decades.”

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) concluded that the Pickering refurbishment would provide better overall ratepayer value in terms of costs and risks, when compared against non-emitting generation alternatives.

Ontario will follow a multi-phase approvals process. The project is also subject to regulatory approval by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). The CNSC is the federal nuclear regulator responsible for licensing nuclear power plants and overseeing their safe operation in Canada.

Key Takeaways:

• Webuild is leading a joint venture that will carry out more than $1 billion in Ontario Line work.
• The work includes developing and building the Pape Tunnel and Underground Stations portion of the Line. 
• Fomento de Construcciones y Contratas Canada Ltd. (FCC Canada) is part of the joint venture.

The Whole Story:

The Webuild Group will lead a joint venture to carry out work on the first phase of development for a portion of the Ontario Line. The Group, in a joint venture with Fomento de Construcciones y Contratas Canada Ltd. (FCC Canada), has signed a contract for an estimated total value of approximately $1-2 billion to develop and build the Pape Tunnel and Underground Stations (PTUS) section of the Ontario Line. 

Webuild stated that the final contract value will be determined by the detailed design, included in the contract. The new subway line will run through Toronto, where the population is expected to increase rapidly from 6 million citizens now to over 8 million by 2030. 

Webuild, with a 50% share, is leading the joint venture, which will design and construct the works, commissioned by Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx. The PTUS contract for the Ontario Line North will be executed as a Progressive Design-Build. The model involves close collaboration between the client, contractor, and designer. The team believes this will create lower execution risks in the start-up and construction phases of the project. 

As a whole, the PTUS contract provides for the design, construction, supply and operation of three kilometres of twin tunnels, two underground stations, the interface with Toronto Transit Commission’s Line 2 subway and related works. The Ontario Line will run from Eglinton Crosstown LRT (Line 5) at Don Mills Road and Eglinton Avenue in the northeast to Exhibition Place in the southwest. It is expected to cut travel times on the route to less than 30 minutes compared to the current 70 minutes. 

The Ontario Line will extend 15.6 kilometres with 15 stations, six intermodal hubs and more than 40 connections with existing subway, streetcar, light-rail transit and regional rail lines and bus services. Webuild is already implementing, with the Connect 6ix consortium, the Rolling Stock, Systems, Operations and Maintenance (RSSOM) package of works for the Ontario Line, which includes designing and implementing signalling, communication, and safety systems, supplying rolling stock, and carrying out the line’s operation and maintenance. 

The PTUS contract will be the third sustainable mobility project being built in Canada for Webuild. In addition to the RSSOM and PTUS packages of the Ontario Line, the Group is also carrying out the Hurontario project with the Mobilinx consortium, to build a light rail line that will run 18 kilometres, near Toronto, along Hurontario Street. 

The scope of work for the contract includes:

• Three kilometres of twin tunnels underneath Pape Avenue between the Gerrard portal and the Don Valley bridge
• Underpinning of the existing TTC Pape Station on Line 2.
• Two underground stations (Pape and Cosburn) and two portals
• Three emergency exit buildings/emergency services buildings
• A rail switch/crossover in the section of tunnel near Sammon Avenue 
• Interface with Line 2 TTC subway

Key Takeaways:

• Schneider Electric is embarking on a major project at Vancouver International Airport.
• The project involves modernizing YVR’s existing installed products to cut capital costs for the airport with minimal operational disruption.
• The work is expected to help the airport’s goal of becoming net zero by 2030 

The Whole Story:

Schneider Electric is partnering with Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to improve operational reliability and workplace safety, supporting the airport’s goal to become net zero carbon by 2030. 

The two are no strangers. Schneider has spent decades working with the airport on major expansions. Schneider Electric’s proposed modernization of YVR’s existing installed products is expected to significantly cut capital costs for the airport with minimal operational disruption.

“Schneider Electric is proud to supply a comprehensive roadmap and support for YVR to help facilitate the modernization and digital transformation of one of Canada’s largest and busiest airports,” says Courtney Forget, vice president, services, Schneider Electric. “We are thrilled to extend our ongoing relationship with YVR, working side-by-side as one team, and providing solutions on their electrical distribution systems to ensure we’re fostering a sustainable and reliable airport environment.”

The digital transformation of YVR’s energy system is expected to play a large role in operational reliability and help reduce emissions. One of the first projects Schneider Electric embarked on was to eliminate operational risks and improve occupational safety by upgrading the airport’s install base. Schneider Electric says it will continue to help YVR with their Energy Management Information System, a solution using Schneider Electric’s Resource Advisor and EcoStruxure Power Operation for carbon emission monitoring built on top of existing monitoring systems, which will help the airports efforts toward their 2030 net-zero goals.

“At YVR we are focused on energy conservation and electrification across our operations to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen the green economy,” said Christoph Rufenacht, vice president, Airport Development & Asset Optimization at YVR. “Working with Schneider Electric, we will enhance how we monitor and manage our energy use, optimize our current energy infrastructure, and explore innovative solutions to maximize carbon reduction. We are pleased to extend our long-time partnership and look forward to creating a greener, more sustainable future at YVR with Schneider Electric.”

YVR is expecting to invest $135-million over 10 years to become net zero by 2030 and, in achieving this goal, become one of the world’s greenest airports. This includes a commitment to meet operational requirements more efficiently and use less energy for heating and cooling, cooking, lighting, and other electrical needs.

Key Takeaways:

• B.C. Premier David Eby announced a $36-billion investment for community and regional infrastructure projects that will deliver electricity.
• This represents an increase of 50% over BC Hydro’s previous capital plan.
• These new construction projects are projected to support 10,500 to 12,500 jobs on average annually.
• The province and BC Hydro are also implementing a new streamlined, one-window approval process to speed up approvals

The Whole Story:

BC Hydro plans to embark on an “unprecedented level of construction” over the next 10 years, building out the province’s electricity system. 

“We must expand our electrical system like never before, to power industrial development, to power our homes and businesses, to power our future,” said Premier David Eby. “Clean, affordable energy will help us meet that opportunity, while reducing pollution, securing good-paying jobs and creating new opportunities for our growing economy.”

Investing billions

At the B.C. Natural Resources Forum in Prince George, Eby announced a $36-billion investment for community and regional infrastructure projects that will deliver electricity to people and businesses in the future. 

BC Hydro’s updated 10-year capital plan, Power Pathway: Building BC’s energy future, includes almost $36 billion in community and regional infrastructure investments throughout the province between 2024-25 and 2033-34. This represents an increase of 50% over BC Hydro’s previous capital plan ($24 billion), and includes a significant increase in electrification and emissions-reduction infrastructure projects (nearly $10 billion, up from $1 billion).

These new construction projects are projected to support 10,500 to 12,500 jobs on average annually, and will increase and maintain BC Hydro’s capital investments as major projects like Site C are completed.

Officials say the plan reflects growing demand for electricity across sectors due to population growth and housing construction, increased industrial development, and people and businesses switching from fossil fuels to clean electricity, among other factors. It includes:

• building new high-voltage transmission lines and supporting infrastructure from Prince George to Terrace to meet industrial customer demand in the north coast area, including in the mining sector;

• building or expanding substations and installing new equipment to support residential housing growth and transit electrification in high-growth areas across the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island; and

• upgrading B.C.’s dams and generating facilities to make them safer, more reliable and more efficient.

“We’re taking action to build a clean energy future and create thousands of construction jobs for skilled workers as major infrastructure projects like Site C reach completion,” said Josie Osborne, minister of energy, mines and low carbon innovation. “Together with our first call for power in over 15 years, BC Hydro’s new capital plan – with almost $4 billion in spending every year for the next decade – will drive economic growth for communities all over the province and ensure households and businesses can power up with clean, reliable and affordable electricity.”

BC Hydro’s goal is to acquire new sources of clean, renewable electricity, including wind and solar. They argue that B.C. is well positioned to add additional intermittent renewables to the grid as its integrated, flexible system of hydro-electric dams act as batteries. The reservoirs store water and allow BC Hydro to ramp production up or down almost instantly, providing a reliable back up for when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

“Our electricity grid is already one of the cleanest in the world, and to meet the scale and pace of what’s required, we need to invest in our system and build for the future,” said Chris O’Riley, president and CEO of BC Hydro. “We have already taken significant steps toward sourcing the clean electricity needed to meet the future demand, and we are now embarking on the next step, our $36 billion 10-year capital plan, which includes everything from investing in our generation assets and large transmission infrastructure to the substations and local wires that deliver power to homes and businesses across the province.”

Streamlining approvals

In addition to the 10-year capital plan, Eby announced that the province and BC Hydro are implementing a new streamlined, one-window approval process to speed up approvals to get electricty to in-demand industries faster, and to support jobs.

“Industrial greenhouse gas emissions make up about 40% of B.C.’s total, so we need to work closely with the private sector to electrify rapidly to meet our CleanBC climate goals by 2030 and keep B.C. industries strong and competitive,” said George Heyman, minister of environment and climate change strategy. “This new, one-window approach will help companies reach final investment decisions sooner so they can move to a decarbonized future that will benefit our province for generations to come and meet the growing global demand and opportunities for low carbon commodities.”

The process will result in the Climate Action Secretariat and BC Hydro managing streamlined approvals for industrial electrification projects between the CleanBC Industry Fund and BC Hydro’s Large Customer Low Carbon Electrification programs. Officials say that transitioning to a one-window process will speed up approvals, increase efficiency, and deliver more funding certainty for proponents.

Power crisis in the prairies

The announcement comes at a time when record-breaking weather prompted the province of Alberta to issue an emergency alert warning residents to conserve power due to increased demand. The province stated that extreme cold resulting in high power demand placed the Alberta grid at a high risk of rotating power outages. Officials asked Albertans to do the following:

• Albertans are asked to immediately limit their electricity use to essential needs only
• Turn off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances
• Minimize the use of space heaters
• Delay use of major power appliances
• Delay charging electrical vehicles and plugging in block heaters
• Cook with microwave instead of stove

One of Alberta’s recently announced strategies to address power concerns is exploring nuclear reactors.

Key Takeaways:

• Lafarge and nidus3D are partnering on a 3D-printed housing project to reduce its carbon footprint.
• The project team will use Lafarge’s OneChem cement which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 10%.
• The project named “Kakatoosoyiists” (Star Lodge) will consist of four buildings, comprising a total of sixteen units, each specifically designed to provide a supportive haven for individuals of SikSika Nation fleeing domestic violence or facing homelessness.

The Whole Story:

Lafarge Canada partnering with nidus3D in supplying its OneCem low-carbon cement in Canada’s largest 3D-printed housing project, aimed at addressing the acute housing challenges faced by the SikSika Nation.

While nidus3D has successfully completed 3D-printed housing projects in Ontario, this marks the first venture of its kind in Alberta. Located one hour’s drive east from the city of Calgary, the project named “Kakatoosoyiists” (Star Lodge) will consist of four buildings, comprising a total of sixteen units, each specifically designed to provide a supportive haven for individuals of SikSika Nation fleeing domestic violence or facing homelessness.

According to Lafarge, the initiative directly confronts a pressing issue underscored by the Social Planning & Research Council of Hamilton. According to their report, Indigenous peoples in Canadian cities are eight times more likely to face homelessness compared to the general population. 

Lafarge is supplying its OneCem low-carbon cement for this project, recognized for its ability to deliver a reduced carbon footprint. When manufactured, the higher limestone content of OneCem translates into a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions—up to 10% when compared to traditional Portland cement. OneCem achieves this sustainable advantage while maintaining its strength, durability, performance and workability. 

“Our shared goal with nidus3D extends beyond mere innovation,” says Brad Kohl, president and CEO of Lafarge Canada (West). “This project is about helping address the critical housing needs of the nation and foster a resilient, inclusive future through sustainable construction practices. We were proud to contribute to this project.”

nidus3D, a leading innovator in 3D-printed housing, is excited to bring its expertise to Alberta.

“Nidus3D is honoured and energized to be working with Siksika First Nation and Lafarge Canada on this innovative Canadian first,” says Ian Arthur, nidus3D’s president. “This multi-build development will not only provide much needed housing but show the immense potential of 3D construction printing to address Canada’s housing crisis. This project will demonstrate efficiencies and savings the technology can deliver through rapid, repeatable construction.”

Lafarge added that they believe the collaboration stands as a testament to the potential of combining expertise, resources, and a shared commitment to building not just structures but sustainable, supportive communities for a brighter future. The project is expected to be completed by March 31st, 2024.

New data released by BC Housing shows for the second consecutive year, a record number of purpose-built rental homes were registered in B.C., approximately 30% more than in 2022.

The December 2023 New Homes Registry Report shows 19,064 rental homes were registered in B.C. in 2023, the highest annual total since BC Housing started collecting this data in 2002. Compared with 2022, the number of registered rental units increased by 30.9%.

“Our government’s actions to tackle the housing crisis are starting to take hold as evidenced in the record-setting number of purpose-built homes registered in B.C. last year,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing. “When you compare that to the fewer than 2,000 rental units registered in 2012, it’s quite remarkable how the landscape has changed under our government. I’d like to thank our province’s construction industry for its work to get more homes built for the people of B.C.”

In total, 45,647 new homes were registered in B.C. in 2023. These include 6,522 single detached homes and 39,125 multi-unit homes.

Registered new-home data is collected at the beginning of a project, before building permits are issued, making it a leading indicator of housing activity in B.C.

Under the Homeowner Protection Act, all new homes in the province are required to be registered with BC Housing before a building permit is issued. Each new home must either be enrolled in home-warranty insurance by a licensed residential builder or have an applicable exemption, such as a purpose-built rental exemption or an owner-builder exemption.

The province says home-warranty insurance protects new homes in B.C. against construction defects in materials and labour, building envelope and structural defects.

Cedarglen Homes, a Calgary-based home builder founded 40 years ago, has been acquired by Anthem Properties. 

Anthem noted that Cedarglen is recognized as one of Calgary’s top home builders, building and selling more than 300 homes per year.

They stated that dynamic synergy between Anthem and Cedarglen creates opportunities to support the growth strategy of both organizations.

“The acquisition of Cedarglen is a highly significant transaction for Anthem,” said Eric Carlson, Anthem core-founder and CEO. “It fortifies our position as an Alberta business and synergizes well with our Land division, and everything else we are doing in Calgary. Anthem and Cedarglen are well aligned on our growth strategy, Great People, culture, values, and process. This is a huge win-win, in every aspect.” 

Anthem stated that for the foreseeable future the Cedarglen Homes brand, systems, processes, senior leadership team and partner relationships will continue to run as is, and the day to-day operations of Cedarglen Homes will run independently to Anthem and remain business as usual under the leadership of Howard Tse, President of Cedarglen Homes. 

“This exciting partnership with Anthem Properties will open a world of opportunities for our employees and customers,” said Tse. “For our employees, it means joining a larger, dynamic company with a strong commitment to growth and development. For our customers, it means continued access to a wide range of high-quality homes in more communities in Calgary and the surrounding areas. We are confident that this partnership will be mutually beneficial and rewarding for everyone involved.”

Anthem explained that the immediate benefit between the two organizations is the shared knowledge of our market, systems and process.

“The potential future integration of our companies, people, culture, business strategies, systems and tools would only transpire in the event it became obvious to the senior leadership of both companies that doing so would materially enhance the success of the business,” said Anthem.

Key Takeaways:

• AtkinsRéalis and Bird Construction are teaming up with Metrolinx to deliver the East Harbour Transit Hub.
• They have entered into an alliance development agreement as a joint venture, Rail Connect Partners. 
• The East Harbour Transit Hub is expected to bring about 100,000 daily riders

The Whole Story:

AtkinsRéalis and Bird Construction, have entered into an alliance development agreement to work collaboratively with Metrolinx to deliver the East Harbour Transit Hub: a new interchange station that is part of a broader transit-oriented community plan for Toronto. AtkinsRéalis is partnered with Bird under the Rail Connect (RC) Partners joint venture.

It was also announced that Hatch will be the lead design participant and will provide architectural, engineering, project management, and advisory services to support the project.

Under the alliance development agreement, services include optimizing the design solution, preparing detailed estimates for resources, costs and schedules, preparing a project proposal, finalizing the project Alliance agreement, and performing early works.

“The alliance development agreement represents a significant development for us in how we execute large projects without a fixed price contract model; we are thrilled to work closely with our alliance partners to apply this collaborative model to deliver an exciting new regional transportation hub,” said Ian L. Edwards, president and CEO, AtkinsRéalis. “We are proud to contribute to improving transportation links in the Greater Toronto Area and developing innovative solutions to improve accessibility for commuters.”

Officials say the The East Harbour Transit Hub will support local transit needs in the community and regional connectivity, through the incorporation of the GO Train, Ontario Line subway and future Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) light rail transit. Service levels planned as part of GO Expansion would see a GO train arriving as frequently as every five minutes.

According to Metrolinx, the project will use 40 km of existing GO rail corridors so that new rail stations are more convenient for neighbourhoods and major commercial areas.

Based on preliminary analysis, East Harbour Transit Hub is expected to bring about 100,000 daily riders, with an approximately even split between East Harbour customers using the Ontario Line and SmartTrack GO Station.

Some of the project benefits include:

• Concourse area with customer amenities and accessible drop off;
• Connections to the future Broadview Ave extension.
• GO platforms for local and express train service, complete with elevators.
• Access to GO trains, the future Ontario Line subway and future TTC light rail transit in one location.
• A multi-use path and trail bridge and landings over the Don River
• Eastern Avenue Bridge reconstruction to support both GO transit and the new Ontario Line subway.
• Single train connection to Pickering, Whitby, and Oshawa as well as destinations such as Mississauga, Oakville and Hamilton.

Key Takeaways:

• Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and Black & Veatch have been selected to provide engineering, procurement and construction for the design, fabrication and delivery of the project’s floating LNG production unit
• Project officials say a final investment decision is expected by the end of the first quarter of 2024. 
• Onshore construction work for the project could commence as early as the second quarter 2024, with the delivery of the FLNG and substantial completion expected in 2028.

The Whole Story:

The Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation, partners in the development of the proposed Cedar LNG Project, announced Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and Black & Veatch have been selected to provide engineering, procurement and construction for the design, fabrication and delivery of the project’s floating LNG production unit (FLNG), subject to a Final Investment Decision (FID).

“This is a critical milestone on our path towards a FID for Cedar LNG, the first Indigenous majority-owned LNG project in the world,” said Doug Arnell, Cedar LNG CEO. “We have secured world-class FLNG expertise and look forward to working with SHI and Black & Veatch to build an LNG facility with one of the cleanest environmental profiles in the world that will usher in a new era of low carbon, sustainable LNG production.”

Cedar LNG now has major regulatory approvals and signed memorandums of understanding for long-term liquefaction services for the project’s total LNG capacity. Officials say the project is now at an advanced stage of planning and development with a FID expected by the end of the first quarter 2024. However, early last year, Cedar LNG stated that it was anticipating a FID in the third quarter of 2023. 

Subject to a positive FID, onshore construction work for the project could commence as early as the second quarter 2024, with the delivery of the FLNG and substantial completion expected in 2028.

The Cedar LNG Project is a partnership between the Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation to develop a floating liquefied natural gas facility in Kitimat, B.C. within the traditional territory of the Haisla Nation. Cedar LNG will be powered by renewable electricity from BC Hydro, making it one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG facilities in the world.