Articles from On-site

Amrize has launched the MV Tamarack, a new cement carrier designed for efficient and sustainable transportation on the Great Lakes, marking the first new vessel of its kind in two decades. This ship, operated by Eureka Shipping, can carry over 10,000 cubic metres of cement and is equipped with advanced technology to minimize emissions. The MV Tamarack supports Amrize's efforts to supply building materials for infrastructure projects, particularly in Ontario, which plans significant investments in construction. The collaboration with Eureka Shipping strengthens Amrize's capacity, replacing older ships with this more efficient, environmentally friendly vessel.

The Manitoba government has signed its first Manitoba jobs agreement with Manitoba Building Trades to build four new schools in the province. This agreement prioritizes local workforce by ensuring contractors employ Manitoba workers and adhere to standards for wages, benefits, and working conditions. It also includes targets for apprenticeship hours to enhance workforce development. The MJA applies to major public infrastructure projects valued at $50 million and above, reinforcing the commitment to create quality jobs and support economic growth in Manitoba.

The article discusses the launch of Build Canada Homes, a new federal agency in Canada focused on building affordable housing across the country. Headed by Ana Bailão, the agency aims to increase the housing supply by partnering with private developers, leveraging public lands, and offering financial incentives to build more homes sustainably and at scale. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced an initial $13 billion capitalization for the agency, which aims to double housing construction and reduce homelessness. Emphasis will be placed on using modern, eco-friendly construction methods and materials.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the first set of projects to be fast-tracked by Canada’s new Major Projects Office (MPO). These projects, valued at over $60 billion, include the LNG Canada Phase 2, the Darlington New Nuclear Project, the Contrecœur Terminal Container expansion, and the McIlvenna Bay Foran Copper Mine. The MPO aims to streamline assessments and approvals for these nation-building initiatives and enhance Canada's economic growth. Additional sectors for development include critical minerals and wind energy in Atlantic Canada.

The CMHC reports that housing starts across Canada's principal cities have remained stable but show significant regional variation in 2025. While cities like Calgary, Edmonton, and Montreal experienced high construction rates, Toronto and Vancouver saw declines, primarily due to slow condominium starts. Rental housing construction surged, driven by government incentives, but the overall slowdown in the homeownership market poses future risks. Development charges and approval times are major hurdles for increased construction in cities like Vancouver and Toronto.

Power Curbers Companies has acquired Miller Formless Systems, a mid-sized slipform machine producer based in Illinois. This acquisition aims to leverage synergies between the two firms to enhance product offerings and customer support while maintaining Miller Formless' legacy. Miller Formless will operate under its brand name and continue producing machines for contractors worldwide. Founded in 1953, Power Curbers is known for manufacturing concrete slipform machines for various applications.

Bluebeam, a leading developer for AEC professionals, has acquired Firmus AI to enhance its project review platform with AI capabilities. This acquisition integrates Firmus' AI technology into Bluebeam's workflows, allowing for early risk identification and efficient cross-discipline analysis. The integration aims to improve efficiency and mitigate risks in the preconstruction phase through detailed document analysis. Firmus' technology will be incorporated into Bluebeam's products starting in early 2026.

Bird Construction Inc. is acquiring Fraser River Pile & Dredge (FRPD) for an estimated $82.3 million, aiming to finalize the deal in early Q4 of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals. Fraser River Pile & Dredge, established in 1911 and based in New Westminster, B.C., specializes in marine construction, land foundation, and dredging, providing its services across Canada. This acquisition adds unique self-perform capabilities to Bird's portfolio, enhancing its ability to undertake larger projects nationwide. The merger is seen as a significant step forward in the growth strategies of both companies.

The Common Ground Alliance's 2024 DIRT Report indicates an increase in damages to buried utilities, despite some improvements within specific sectors and organizations. The report reviews nearly 197,000 damage cases and shows challenges like improper marking and failure to notify 'Call Before You Dig'. The CGA calls for comprehensive enforcement and accountability measures, highlighting that current damage rates match construction activity rather than preventive practices. Significant improvements are needed to meet the ambitious goal of reducing damages by 50% over five years.

The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) is organizing an online housing summit on September 24 to address the urgent housing crisis caused by cumbersome planning processes, high taxes, and regulatory challenges. Ontario's housing starts have significantly declined, exacerbating economic issues and causing job losses in the construction sector. The summit aims to gather insights from industry leaders and suggest policy changes to boost homebuilding. Key speakers include Ontario's Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister and senior economists, who will discuss strategies to address the low levels of new home and condo sales.

Saskatchewan-based Balzer’s Canada Incorporated has initiated a significant solar project aiming for net-zero energy operations by autumn. The company is installing a dual-axis solar tracking system at its headquarters in Emerald Park, which will power its 23-acre facility. This project showcases advanced solar technology's efficacy in industrial applications, aiming to set a new benchmark for sustainable practices. The installation is expected to be operational later this year, highlighting BCI's commitment to lead in greener industrial construction across the Prairies.

The Ontario government has initiated the construction of Highway 413, awarding contracts to Fermar Paving and Pave-Al for early phases of the project. The highway aims to connect several Greater Toronto Area (GTA) regions, reducing travel times and alleviating gridlock. The project anticipates generating over 6,000 jobs annually and adding more than $1 billion to Ontario's GDP. Despite protests, officials emphasize the economic and infrastructure benefits, projecting long-term advantages for residents and businesses.