Category: Projects

Key Takeaways:

• A total of 17 new projects in Metro Vancouver have been selected through the third intake of the Building BC: Community Housing Fund (CHF).
• The proposed projects will provide a total of 1,954 affordable rental homes.
• Additional projects on Vancouver Island, in the Interior and North will be announced later this week

The Whole Story:

Nearly 2,000 new affordable homes are on the way for renters in Metro Vancouver, through partnerships between the Province and local non-profit housing providers.

A total of 17 new projects in Metro Vancouver have been selected through the third intake of the Building BC: Community Housing Fund (CHF). The proposed projects will provide a total of 1,954 affordable rental homes for individuals, families, seniors, people living with disabilities and Indigenous people in B.C.

“Everyone deserves a decent home they can actually afford,” said Premier David Eby. “That’s why we’re taking unprecedented actions to rapidly build more affordable housing throughout the province, including through the Community Housing Fund. This latest round of funding will bring much-needed homes to every region of our province – from our fastest-growing cities to rural and remote areas – helping everyone find a decent home in the community they love.”

The announcement took place at 7567-140 St. in Surrey, the future site of an affordable housing project that will be operated by Kekinow Native Housing Society. Expected to be completed in late spring 2024, the project previously received CHF funding for Phase 2 of the development to build more than 100 homes for Indigenous people. The society will be receiving CHF funding for another project as one of the successful proponents from the CHF call for proposals issued in fall 2023.

“Through our Homes for People action plan, we are taking action to deliver affordable housing faster, and the Community Housing Fund is a key part of the plan,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing. “These new homes mean that more people in B.C. will benefit from affordable homes in the communities they love, where they can grow their families and age in place.”

Including these projects, the province, through BC Housing, has identified more than 40 new projects to move forward, totalling approximately 3,500 affordable rental homes. Additional projects on Vancouver Island, in the Interior and North will be announced later this week. This brings the total to 12,500 affordable rental homes that are already open or underway through the CHF program since its launch in 2018.

The Community Housing Fund is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 78,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway.

Key Takeaways:

• There are three major construction phases of the redevelopment, which will be run as two separate projects.
• In addition to schematic design drawings, residents were able to view a video simulating a flyover of the new patient tower and power plant.
• The next step is design development, which entails creating the entire construction plan, including building finishes as well as plumbing and electrical components. 

The Whole Story:

Alberta’s government has offered a sneak peek at what’s planned for the massive Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre redevelopment.

In addition to schematic design drawings, residents were able to view a video simulating a flyover of the new patient tower and power plant. Project representatives were also on hand to speak about the project. The session was attended by about 150 residents, media and officials including Ken Johnston, mayor of Red Deer.

Alberta’s government made the first significant commitment and progress on the hospital by allocating $100 million in Budget 2020, followed by another $1.8-billion commitment in Budget 2022. 

“We were excited to share schematic designs for the Red Deer Hospital redevelopment yesterday,” said Pete Guthrie, minister of infrastructure. “The number of people who attended the session validates the importance of this project to the central region. We are proud of the role Infrastructure is playing in delivering one of the most ambitious hospital redevelopment projects in Alberta’s history.”

Design work began in June 2023. With schematic design now complete, the hospital redevelopment is on schedule and on budget. The next stage of the project, design development, is now underway. Once complete, the new expansion will add up to 200 beds to the existing facility, bringing the total number of beds to up to 570.

“As the MLA for Red Deer-North and the Health Minister, I’m very proud of the progress we’ve achieved, and I remain dedicated to advocating for this project,” said Adriana LaGrange, minister of health. “Albertans should be able to access health care when and where they need it. This project will improve health outcomes for Albertans living in Red Deer and across central Alberta by increasing the facility’s capacity and providing much-needed services and resources, including new cardiac catheterization labs, close to home.”

View of Central Alberta Cancer Centre (CACC) New Drop-off from 52nd Avenue

View of Power Plant Addition

View of New Patient Tower Entry from 39th Street

There are three major construction phases of the redevelopment, which will be run as two separate projects:

• Project 1: construction of a new inpatient tower, and an expansion and renovation of the existing hospital’s main building. 
• Project 2: construction of an ambulatory care building using a public-private partnership (P3) delivery model.  

The project will upgrade several services throughout the hospital site including:

• an additional inpatient tower 
• six new operating rooms 
• new Medical Device Reprocessing department 
• new cardiac catheterization labs 
• renovations to various areas within the main building 
• newly renovated and expanded emergency department, and  
• a new ambulatory clinic building to be located adjacent to the surface parkade. 

Key Takeaways:

• The BMO Centre expansion project has reached substantial completion after four years of work. 
• This required over two million construction hours and contributions from nearly 5,000 tradespeople, including demolition crews, steelworkers, drywall installers, and electrical and mechanical teams.
• The expanded BMO Centre will host its first event – the Global Energy Show – in June 2024.

The Whole Story:

After four years of construction, Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) and the Calgary Stampede have announced the substantial completion of the $500-million BMO Centre expansion, moving the project into its final stages of operational readiness ahead of its grand opening in June.

“As development manager for this transformative project, Calgary Municipal Land Corporation is proud to have delivered the BMO Centre expansion on schedule and on budget,” said Kate Thompson, CMLC’s president and CEO. “This is a major accomplishment for CMLC and our partners, and a huge step toward achieving our vision for a vibrant and active Culture + Entertainment District. The expanded BMO Centre is second to none in its design architecture and functionality, and sets a new precedent for convention facilities. We are thrilled to hand over the keys to the newly expanded BMO Centre to the Calgary Stampede team as they prepare to operationalize the building in advance of its grand opening this June.”

Thompson added that achieving the milestone would not have been possible without the generous support of all levels of government or without the dedication and expertise of its construction manager, PCL Construction, and project manager, M3 Project Management. 

“Our gratitude also extends to our world-class design team of Stantec, Populous and S2 for their visionary design of this architectural landmark, and to our partners at the Calgary Stampede,” said Thompson. “Our shared success today is due to all our consultants’ and contractors’ unwavering commitment and pride of work over the past four years.”

With over two million construction hours and contributions from nearly 5,000 tradespeople, including demolition crews, steelworkers, drywall installers, and electrical and mechanical teams, officials say the BMO Centre expansion stands as a testament to collaborative effort and commitment to excellence. At more than 565,000 square feet of new space, 10,000 metric tonnes of steel, and 2.4 million square feet of drywall, the expanded BMO Centre is now Western Canada’s largest convention centre.

“The BMO Centre expansion project has been years in the making for the Calgary Stampede, from first questioning ‘Should we expand?’ to considering ‘What would an expansion look like?’ to then involving our development partners in making it happen. To reach this substantial completion milestone is monumental, as our team will now work to operationalize the building in preparation of welcoming the world to the BMO Centre at Stampede Park in just under 90 days,” said Joel Cowley, Calgary Stampede CEO. “The impact that the expanded BMO Centre will have on the Calgary Stampede and on Calgary’s tourism, convention and hospitality sector cannot be overstated. We have already seen great interest in the expanded BMO Centre and now have more than 100 incremental events booked through 2030.”

In preparation for its operation as a 1-million-plus-square-foot facility, the Calgary Stampede team will soon begin loading in furniture, dishes, cutlery, and catering equipment to the tune of 6,500 stacking chairs, 600 round banquet tables, 500 rectangular tables, 7,680 table forks and knives, and 6,200 dinner plates.

With the opening of the BMO Centre expansion, Calgary will now have a Tier 1 Convention centre, which allows the city to compete for larger meetings and convention business.

The $500-million expansion – funded in equal parts by the Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta, and The City of Calgary – will more than double the centre’s capacity for conferences, meetings and events. Across the expansion and existing facilities, the BMO Centre will be able to host up to 33,000 guests at once.

The expanded BMO Centre will host its first event – the Global Energy Show – in June 2024.

Key Takeaways:

• Crews are expected to break ground this spring.
• Ledcor was chosen from a group of four submissions.
• The Government of Alberta is providing $125 million for the project as announced as part of the 2023 Capital Budget.

The Whole Story:

Ledcor has chosen to build MacEwan University’s new School of Business building. 

The facility will be a seven-storey, 376,700-square foot building at 109 Street and 105 Avenue. It will contain 30 classrooms, a simulated trading floor, 20 collaboration spaces and 15 study spaces. When completed, the building will accommodate an additional 7,500 students.

“Ledcor’s proposal was chosen from a group of four outstanding submissions – we acknowledge and appreciate the hard work and creativity in all the proposals,” said school officials.

Construction on the building at the vacant lot site will begin this spring.

The Government of Alberta is providing $125 million for the project as announced as part of the 2023 Capital Budget. Total estimated cost is $190 million. 

“Like MacEwan, Ledcor is an organization firmly rooted in community, built on a foundation of collaboration and innovation,” said school officials. “We are looking forward to working together on the construction of the building, which will provide learning spaces for 7,500 new students when it opens its doors in 2027.”

Targeting LEED Gold, the building will incorporate a high-efficiency mechanical and electrical system, solar photovoltaic panels to convert thermal energy into electricity, and a high-performing exterior that includes vertical solar shading fins for temperature regulation.

The facility will also feature a ground floor café, a multi-level central atrium providing a variety of collaborating and gathering areas for learning, and upper floors with classrooms to support an exceptional teaching environment, offices, and spaces primed for future growth.

Key Takeaways:

• The team includes Ledcor, Dragados Canada and SYSTRA International Bridge Technologies.
• The contract includes designing, building and financing the elevated guideway and associated roadworks, utilities and active transportation elements of the project.
• The team is set to begin some early works to prepare for major construction, including geotechnical investigations, locating utilities and clearing vegetation.

The Whole Story:

B.C. has selected a preferred proponent team to design, build and finance the elevated guideway and associated roadworks, utilities and active transportation elements of the Surrey Langley SkyTrain.

The preferred proponent team selected to enter final contract negotiations with the Province is SkyLink Guideway Partners (SLGP), which is comprised of Dragados Canada, Inc., Ledcor Investments Inc., Ledcor Mining Ltd. and SYSTRA International Bridge Technologies Inc.

• Proponent: Dragados Canada, Inc., Ledcor Investments Inc. 
• Design-build contractor: Dragados Canada, Inc., Ledcor Mining Ltd. 
• Design contractor:  SYSTRA International Bridge Technologies Inc.

As the province enters final contract negotiations with the preferred proponent, the team will start some early works to prepare for major construction, including geotechnical investigations, locating utilities and clearing vegetation.

The province says it is working closely with the proponent and local governments to plan the work, and impacts to the public are expected to be minimal during this stage.

The Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is a 16-kilometre extension of the Expo Line from King George Station to Langley City Centre, the first rapid transit expansion south of the Fraser River in 30 years.

Once complete, the project will provide transportation for people in Surrey, Langley and throughout Metro Vancouver. Major construction on the Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is expected to begin this year.

The Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is being delivered through three separate contracts. Requests for proposals (RFPs) for all three phases were issued in early 2023.

In addition to the elevated guideway and associated roadworks, utilities and active transportation elements, the province continues evaluations and discussions for the design and construction of eight new stations, including active transportation elements, such as cycling and walking paths around the new stations, as well as for the design, installation and testing of electrical systems.

Formal contract award announcements are anticipated in the coming months.

Spring has not yet fully sprung in many parts of Canada, but builders are forging ahead. This month we checked out some furry visitors, enjoyed some lakeside views admired some epic pours.

Orion Construction

Orion Construction‘s team celebrates employee appreciation day from the inside of one of its industrial projects.

Fast + Epp

Ādisōke, the new Ottawa Public Library – Library and Archives Canada joint facility, continues to take shape. The project is targeting Net-Zero Carbon and LEED Gold certification, and includes large-scale use of natural materials, reclaimed wood, solar cells on rooftop panels, as well as sequestered carbon in the concrete.

Metrolinx

A tieback drill rig helps reinforce excavation as crews work on the Ontario Line.

Greg Tymchyna / Fort Modular

The sun hits a project just right as Fort Modular crews prep for a build.

StructureCraft

Glulam frames are lifted up to form the roof of the Fraser Mills Presentation Centre.

WZMH Architects

WZMH staff got a special visit last month. Corporate Canine Therapy brought their fleet of stress-relieving dogs to give employees a mood boost.

TYBO Contracting

B.C.-based TYBO Contracting uses heavy equipment to prep a site.

Komplete Modular Solutions

Alberta-based Komplete Modular Solutions‘ team smiles through a chilly winter day on site.

Mack Plovie / T & A Rock Works

T & A Rock Works crews operate an excavator-mounted drill rig for work on a home development high above Okanagan Lake.

Chandos

Chandos‘ Ottawa team pours the concrete foundation walls for the future Petrie Island Canoe Club boathouse. Once the foundation walls are complete, they will receive unique precast concrete modules.

Charlton Mosdier / Pomerleau

Crews at Annacis Island Wastewater Treatment Plant have successfully utilized PERI formwork panels to pour the lower section of the Outfall Shaft’s Dividing Wall. 

The shot of the month goes to…

Lafarge Canada

Some furry friends pay a visit to Lafarge‘s cement plant in Exshaw, Alberta, the largest cement plant in the country.

Key Takeaways:

• the province is investing $254 million in the design and site preparation phase of the Halifax Infirmary expansion
• The expansion will enable services to be relocated from aging facilities.
• This phase of construction, which will ready the site for the new tower, is expected to continue throughout 2024.

The Whole Story: 

Halifax is one step closer to a major healthcare upgrade.

Nova Scotia announced that site preparation is about to begin for the acute care tower at the QEII Health Sciences Centre’s Halifax Infirmary site.

In early spring, workers will start putting up fencing, begin site excavation and apply for all necessary construction permits. A new emergency department entrance for the public off Bell Road will also be constructed. 

The province stated that this work will help pave the way for a modern healthcare building that will include 216 acute care beds, 16 operating rooms, an intensive care unit and a new, larger emergency department.

“This is one of many steps ahead of us, but it is a significant step forward for the largest healthcare construction project ever considered in this province. It will mean better healthcare services for Nova Scotians for generations to come,” said Michelle Thompson, minister responsible for healthcare redevelopment. “Not only will this exceptional facility provide the best care for Nova Scotians, but it will also help us attract and retain the talented healthcare professionals we need to deliver that care.”

This phase of construction, which will ready the site for the new tower, is expected to continue throughout 2024.

As part of this project, the province continues to upgrade the Halifax Infirmary’s Summer Street entrance, which will become the hospital’s main entrance during construction. Work also continues to relocate utilities, as well as to replace and renovate the hospital’s magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) space.

Key Takeaways:

• The partnership is 40% Aecon and 60% Pomerleau.
• The 12-month development phase includes finalizing the design and estimating schedule and cost for the Contrecœur Terminal Expansion project in-water works.
• The scope of in-water works following the development phase includes dredging, the construction of dock infrastructure, quay walls, return walls, and auxiliary works.

The Whole Story:

Contrecoeur Terminal Constructors General Partnership, comprised of Aecon (40%) and Pomerleau (60%), has executed a contract with the Montréal Port Authority (MPA) for the Contrecœur Terminal Expansion project in-water works under a Progressive Design-Build approach.

The collaborative agreement covers a 12-month development phase to finalize the design, estimated schedule and cost of this phase of the project, delivered under a Progressive Design-Build approach. The scope of in-water works following the development phase includes dredging, the construction of dock infrastructure, quay walls, return walls, and auxiliary works.

“The in-water works are an important component of delivering the new Contrecœur terminal – providing increased capacity to the largest container port in Eastern Canada and supporting continued economic growth in Québec and Canada,” said Jean-Louis Servranckx, president and CEO, Aecon Group Inc. “We look forward to bringing our experience working under collaborative delivery models and building complex civil infrastructure to deliver this vital project with our client and partner.”

The Contrecœur terminal is a diversified transshipment centre served by some of the largest shipping lines in the world – connecting to major rail networks and highways and helping to meet the needs of domestic and international importers, exporters and consumers.

“We are proud to be part of the Port of Montreal’s Contrecœur expansion project, which will enable APM to realize its innovative vision for the country’s shipping industry,” said Philippe Adam, president and CEO of Pomerleau. “We applaud the use of the collaborative design-build model, which prioritizes transparency and teamwork between prime contractor and designer, ensuring better planning and risk management. Together, with our partner Aecon and the APM team, we will leverage our know-how and experience in the design and construction of world-class port infrastructures.

Canadian food and pharmacy retailer, Loblaw Companies Limited, expects to invest more than $2 billion dollars into the Canadian economy in 2024. 

This includes the construction of 40 new stores, expanding or relocating 10 stores and renovating more than 700 others. 

The company says the record investment reflects Loblaw’s plans to enhance its store network, create job opportunities, and improve accessibility to affordable food and healthcare services for communities across the country.

The company’s capital investments this year are expected to create more than 7,500 jobs in Canada.

“This year, we are investing where Canadians need it most. We will introduce more than 40 new discount stores and 140 new pharmacy care clinics in communities across the country – making healthcare and affordable food more accessible to more people,” said Per Bank, president and CEO, Loblaw Companies Limited. “These investments in Canada are a catalyst for job growth and the creation of countless opportunities, in our stores, in our company and with the many partners who work with us.”

Key Takeaways:

• The new hospital campus is being designed and built through a progressive public-private partnership (P3) approach.
• The new hospital will be home to one of Canada’s largest and most modern trauma centres, and will also provide advanced clinical care and education spaces.
• The hospital is the largest-ever healthcare infrastructure project in Ottawa’s history, measuring over 2 million square feet.
• After further discussions, the team plans to enter a fixed-price Project Agreement to design, build, finance, and maintain the project.

The Whole Story:

PCL/ED Joint Venture partners have signed a Development Phase Agreement (DPA) with Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and The Ottawa Hospital (TOH) to build a new state-of-the-art hospital in Ottawa.

“The Ottawa Hospital Build Partners are proud to be invited to work with TOH and IO on such an incredibly important healthcare project in the National Capital Region,” said Bruce Sonnenberg, regional vice-president of PCL Constructors Inc. “We’re looking forward to leveraging our experience and innovation to help TOH not only provide cutting-edge medical care for generations to come, but to do so in a way that is both sustainable and accessible to all members of our Ottawa community.”

The new hospital campus is being designed and built through a progressive public-private partnership (P3) approach, designed to foster collaborative development with all partners.

“We are proud to have reached this significant milestone that will advance critical work for The Ottawa Hospital’s new campus,” said Wayne Ferguson, Senior Vice President & Ottawa Area Manager, EllisDon. “We are passionate about building with a purpose and look forward to working with our partners to deliver a health care facility that is innovative, welcoming, and makes a lasting, positive change for Ottawa and surrounding communities.”

The Ottawa Hospital Build Partners stated they plan to continue to work collaboratively with TOH, IO, and the Ministry of Health to finalize the design, pricing, schedule, risk parameters, and project requirements for the new hospital. Once those requirements have been met, the partners will enter a fixed-price Project Agreement with TOH to design, build, finance, and maintain the project.

The Ottawa Hospital Build Partner team includes:

·         Applicant leads: PCL Investments Inc & ED Capital Inc (collectively “The Ottawa Hospital Build Partners”)

·         Design team: Parkin Architects Ltd & Adamson Associates Architects

·         Construction team: PCL Constructors Canada Inc. and EllisDon Corporation Joint Venture

·         Financial advisor: PCL Investments Inc. & ED Capital Inc.

The new hospital will be home to one of Canada’s largest and most modern trauma centres, and will also provide advanced clinical care and education spaces. The hospital is the largest-ever healthcare infrastructure project in Ottawa’s history, measuring over 2 million square feet.

Key Takeaways:

• The development phase is anticipated to take up to 20 months.
• Once the development phase has concluded, Metrolinx will have the option to sign a final target-price agreement with TGP, which would include final agreements on detailed designs and a negotiated price.
• The scope of work includes three km of an elevated guideway, five elevated stations, one emergency exit building, interface with the operations and maintenance storage facility as well as with the Eglinton Crosstown LRT Line 5 and sections of existing Metrolinx-owned rail corridor.

The Whole Story:

Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx have selected Trillium Guideway Partners (TGP) to deliver the Ontario Line Elevated Guideway and Stations contract. The team has signed a Development and Master Construction Agreement (DMCA) with Metrolinx, under a progressive design-build contract.

The Trillium Guideway Partners team includes:

Applicant Leads: Acciona Infrastructure Canada Inc. and Amico Major Projects Inc.

Design Team: WSP Canada Inc.

Construction Team: Acciona Infrastructure Canada Inc. and Amico Major Projects Inc.

The team was selected following an evaluation of proposals submitted in September 2023.

The DMCA incorporates a multi-stage design process called a development phase, according to the progressive design-build model. Officials say this phase allows for a collaborative approach between Metrolinx as the project owner and TGP as the contracting partner, who work together to finalize the scope, risk allocation and pricing of various elements of this contract.

The development phase is anticipated to take up to 20 months, though early works construction can commence during this phase. Once the development phase has concluded, Metrolinx will have the option to sign a final target-price agreement with TGP, which would include final agreements on detailed designs and a negotiated price.

The scope of work includes three kilometres of an elevated guideway (bridge structures); five elevated stations (Riverside-Leslieville, Gerrard, Thorncliffe Park, Flemingdon Park, Science Centre), one emergency exit building, interface with the operations and maintenance storage facility as well as with the Eglinton Crosstown LRT Line 5 and sections of existing Metrolinx-owned rail corridor where Ontario Line trains will operate.  

The Ontario Line project is being delivered through various public-private partnership (P3), progressive design-build and traditional procurement contracts.

Key Takeaways:

• Ottawa is contributing $2 billion to BC Builds, a new initiative from the Province of B.C. to build more affordable housing. 
• With the federal financing in place, it is anticipated a minimum of between 8,000 and 10,000 homes for people with middle incomes will initially be built over the first five years of the program. 
• The province also announced BC Builds’ fourth site, owned by the City of Vancouver, located at 560 Davie St. and 1210 Seymour St. 

The Whole Story: 

BC Builds, a recently launched initiative by the Province of B.C., is set to receive a boost with an extra $2 billion in funding from the federal government. This additional financing aims to support the initiative in constructing a substantial number of affordable homes for individuals with middle incomes residing and working in British Columbia.

“All levels of government need to work together to solve the housing crisis,” said Premier David Eby. “With the federal government’s contribution and partnership toward BC Builds, we can help build more homes people can actually afford. That’s good news for our economy and for our future, but most importantly it’s good news for British Columbians looking for a decent place to live.”

BC Builds was launched earlier this month. It’s an initiative delivered through BC Housing that leverages government, community and non-profit owned and under-used land to speed up the delivery of housing and help bring costs more in line with what middle-income households earn. All BC Builds projects have a target of middle-income households spending no more than 30% of their income on rent.

“Canada needs more homes that the middle class can afford. That’s what today’s historic partnership with British Columbia is all about,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “Our investment, through the BC Builds Program, will use public land to create more affordable housing, bring down the cost of construction and ensure that we build more homes faster so that Canadians – from teachers, to nurses, to construction workers – can afford to stay in the communities where they work.”

In addition to the $2-billion financing from the Government of Canada, BC Builds is supported through an investment of $950 million from the Province to ensure units are available at below-market rates, as well as $2 billion in provincial low-cost construction financing. The BC Builds team will help streamline approvals for projects seeking federal financing to meet the 12-18-month concept-to-construction BC Builds timeline.

BC Builds has established 20 initial sites through partnerships with local governments, First Nations and non-profit organizations to support the development of housing for middle-income households throughout the province.

With the federal financing in place and through the 20 initial BC Builds sites, it is anticipated a minimum of between 8,000 and 10,000 homes for people with middle incomes will initially be built over the first five years of the program. The total number of units is expected to grow as more partners and land are secured.

“Teachers, nurses, construction workers and other middle-income people need more housing options in B.C., and with several BC Builds sites identified and dozens of interested partners, we are well on our way to getting the additional housing they need built,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “We are in a housing crisis that requires support from all levels of government. BC Builds will ensure that middle-income housing will get built faster and more in line with what households earn.”

The province also announced BC Builds’ fourth site, owned by the City of Vancouver, located at 560 Davie St. and 1210 Seymour St. The site will include:

• A nine-storey concrete building with 112 new co-operative homes for middle-income households in 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 at the corner of Davie and Seymour streets, the last underdeveloped parcel of land in Yaletown. A premium location in downtown Vancouver, the 112 new co-op homes will be located across from Emery Barnes Park near several bus routes.
• The mixed-use proposed project will include co-op homes of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites, and will be safe, secure and permanently affordable. The building will be designed to “passive house” standards, which have high energy efficiency.
• Construction is expected to begin in summer 2024.

“Middle-income earners are the economic engine of our city. It’s beneficial to all Vancouverites that they have a place to call home in the city where they work,” said Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver. “The $2-billion of additional funding from the federal government will allow more affordable homes in our city to be built faster and signals that through the partnership of all levels of government, we can tackle the housing crisis.”

The site is in addition to three sites announced on Feb. 13, 2024, comprising more than 400 housing units in the Cowichan Valley, Gibsons and North Vancouver.

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.