Latest Construction News

Canada has introduced counter-tariffs and protective measures to support its steel and aluminum industries in response to U.S. tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced these actions and mentioned a mutual agreement with U.S. President Donald Trump to negotiate a trade deal aimed at resolving the tariffs issue within 30 days. This move highlights ongoing trade tensions and efforts towards a resolution.

The Canadian government, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, has announced new measures to combat U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum products. These measures include rules to prioritize Canadian steel and aluminum, as well as tariff-free products from other trade partners. This strategy aims to protect Canada's steel and aluminum industries and ensure the smooth operation of trade under current global conditions.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) reports that Canada must double its home construction efforts, building 430,000 to 480,000 homes annually until 2035, to restore housing affordability. Major cities like Montreal and Toronto face significant housing gaps, with Toronto needing a 70% increase in homebuilding over the next decade. The national strategy requires a modernized workforce, more private investment, fewer regulations, and advancements in construction technology to achieve these goals.

Peninsula Capital has acquired a 959-unit single-family rental housing portfolio in the U.S. Midwest, expanding its U.S. presence significantly. This acquisition supports their strategy of scaling up its single-family rental platform. The properties are located in cities like Kansas City, St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Columbus, benefiting from affordable housing, job stability, and high rental demand. The newly acquired portfolio includes two-, three-, and four-bedroom units situated in well-established neighborhoods.

In April 2025, Canada's total investment in building construction dropped by $741.9 million to $22.3 billion, with significant declines in both the residential and non-residential sectors. The residential sector experienced a 4.5% decrease, notably in the multi-unit and single-family components. Ontario and Alberta led the national downturn in single-family home construction. The non-residential sector saw a slight decline, despite an increase in institutional investments, led by Alberta.

A ceremonial groundbreaking event is taking place to commence the rebuilding of the First Baptist Church of Williamsburg, one of the oldest Black churches in the United States. The church, founded in 1776, originally served a congregation that met in secret outdoors before constructing a wooden meetinghouse. This revitalization project coincides with Juneteenth celebrations, marking a significant historical and cultural restoration effort.

Montreal must significantly increase its housing construction efforts to restore pre-pandemic housing affordability levels, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The report suggests that to achieve affordable housing, the city will need to triple its current rate of construction. The housing market is currently constrained, affecting overall accessibility for residents. The city's current strategies may fall short if these targets aren't met.

The Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario (ECAO) recognized top member companies with the R. Hugh Carroll Award for exemplary safety commitment in 2025. Multiple firms, including Rogol Electric and Symtech Innovations, were honored for their outstanding safety achievements. Additionally, certain members were given the new Recognition of Safety Achievement award for maintaining injury statistics below the industry average. Larry J. MacDonald of Black & McDonald Ltd. received the D.J.B. Wright Award for his leadership contributions to Ontario's electrical contracting industry.

Montreal is facing a severe housing crisis, exacerbated by the pandemic more than any other major Canadian city. To address the situation, it is necessary to build approximately 50,000 new homes annually. This implies that Montreal will need to double its current housing production rate to meet demand and alleviate the crisis.

A KPMG report shows that Canada's construction industry is increasingly investing in technology to improve productivity and address labor shortages. The sector is adopting digital tools such as AI, robotics, and BIM to boost efficiency and meet growing demands. However, economic challenges and procurement practices that emphasize cost over innovation remain obstacles. Sector leaders urge for policy reforms to facilitate this technological transition and address supply chain issues.

Lambton College is set to construct a new student residence, the largest project in its history, through a public-private partnership with Tilbury Properties Corporation and Fengate Asset Management. The residence, expected to open in September 2027, is designed to offer a mix of suite styles and amenities to support student life and attract new students. This initiative aims to strengthen the community and support the college’s financial sustainability. The project will be financed and constructed by Tilbury and Fengate, with Teeple Architects and Ball Construction handling design and building respectively.

In Toronto, a heritage project is underway at 950 King St. W to provide 231 rental units, including 40 affordable homes. The redevelopment of the historic Palace Arms Hotel involves a 17-storey building, supported by Greenwin, Intentional Capital, Windsor Private Capital, and LiUNA! Pension Fund. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the area while offering new housing opportunities.