Latest Construction News Dernières nouvelles de la construction

Residential developers in Canada are positive about collaborating with the federal government's new Build Canada Homes (BCH) agency, which aims to support private builders rather than undertake construction itself. BCH will concentrate on creating affordable housing, initially using public land in various cities including Dartmouth, Ottawa, and Toronto. The agency will work alongside the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and aims to boost the non-market housing sector. Key figures in the industry, like Polygon Realty's Neil Chrystal, appreciate the partnership approach with the private sector.

Halifax Water has applied for a rate increase due to the necessity of replacing aging infrastructure and the general rise in the costs of labor and materials. The utility acknowledges that it should have considered the impact on low-income individuals more thoroughly. These rate hikes are submitted to the province's utilities regulatory body for approval. The decisions are part of broader efforts to address the financial needs of maintaining essential water infrastructure.

A construction worker in Three Fathom Harbour, N.S., is being praised for his quick actions that helped slow the spread of a fire. This intervention was instrumental in saving nearby properties from potential damage. The worker happened to be passing by when the incident occurred and took immediate measures to control the situation until further help arrived.

Build Nova Scotia has completed the excavation for the QEII Halifax Infirmary's acute care tower, a milestone in enhancing medical services in the region. The site has been cleared of 543,000 tonnes of soil and rock, and major structural work is set to begin, including the foundation and mechanical work. The expansion, expected to finish by fall 2031, will offer 216 new beds and enhanced medical facilities. This project is a pivotal step towards improving access to healthcare in Nova Scotia.

A recent mental health survey in Nova Scotia's construction industry found that over 36% of frontline workers are experiencing high levels of stress, impacting their productivity, safety, and retention rates. The report highlights the need for better mental health support and strategies to improve workplace conditions. This initiative aims to address critical workforce issues in the construction sector through targeted interventions.

The Government of Canada is awarding $63.2 million to Nova Scotia to fund numerous community-building projects. These projects will cover areas such as public transit, water systems, community infrastructure, and local roads and bridges scheduled for the 2025-26 period. This investment aims to enhance public services and infrastructure across the province.

The government of Nova Scotia has initiated a housing project aimed at addressing the housing shortage for health-care workers in the South Shore region. This project marks the first phase of opening rental units specifically for these professionals. It is a strategic measure to attract and retain health-care talent in the region by providing them with accessible housing options.

The Montague Mines site in Nova Scotia, a former gold mining area, will undergo a remediation process funded by over $33.4 million from federal and provincial governments. The site is heavily contaminated with mercury and arsenic from past mining activities. Efforts will include excavating contaminated soil and constructing containment cells to manage the waste. This initiative supports environmental recovery and public health by restoring the land to a productive state.

Saltire Capital has acquired SanStone Investments, a heavy- and agricultural-equipment dealer, for $70 million. The purchase was partly funded by a $50.1 million loan from Sagard Holdings, part of a $100-million credit facility. The transaction included the issuing of share-purchase warrants and preparations for a $5 million private placement. Saltire aims to strengthen its capital allocation strategy towards private companies with strong fundamentals.

Pomerleau attended a sprouting ceremony alongside the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Society and other community members to mark the start of the Wije’winen Friendship Centre construction in Halifax. The ceremony, rooted in Mi'kmaw tradition, symbolizes growth, community renewal, and cultural perseverance. This project highlights the collaboration between cultural, governmental, and community stakeholders.

The Canadian Wood Council (CWC) is praising Nova Scotia's new directive to prioritize wood construction and heating in public buildings. The government is encouraging all departments to seek opportunities to use mass timber, wood pellets, biomass, biofuels, and other wood-based products. This initiative is aimed at promoting sustainable construction practices across the province.

The Nova Scotia government has opened new student housing at the Nova Scotia Community College's Ivany campus in Dartmouth, providing accommodations for 200 students. This initiative is part of the province's larger housing plan, aiming to ease housing demands and support students. The $58.6 million project includes various suite options with full amenities and is strategically developed to enhance the learning environment. This new development marks an important step in addressing housing needs and was completed on schedule and on budget.