Articles from Nenew Canada

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.

Construction has begun on the East Harbour Transit Hub in Toronto, Ontario, which aims to be the second-busiest transit station in the city after Union Station. The hub will connect the Ontario Line subway with the Lakeshore East and Stouffville GO Transit lines, aimed at easing congestion and cutting travel times for around 100,000 daily riders. The project supports economic growth by creating jobs and enhancing Toronto's transit infrastructure as part of a wider transit expansion plan. In partnership with multiple levels of government, the hub will also facilitate new housing and community developments in its vicinity.

Construction has begun on the new Cardiovascular Surgery Program at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre in Northwestern Ontario. This project, funded by the Government of Ontario and community donors, will create more than 76,000 square feet of clinical space. The new facilities will include 14 cardiovascular surgery inpatient beds and a state-of-the-art surgical suite, aiming to improve local access to cardiac care and reduce patient wait times. The project is in partnership with the University Health Network and is expected to be completed by 2027.

The County of Simcoe has commenced construction on its largest affordable housing development in Barrie, featuring 220 mixed-income rental units and commercial space for health and community service agencies. The project, set to be completed in two phases by 2027, will include two apartment towers and a parking structure. The development aims to provide quality housing for families and seniors, with a focus on universal design to accommodate residents of all ages.

The article discusses the importance of accelerating national priority projects in Canada to enhance self-reliance, economic resilience, and sovereignty signaling amid current economic challenges. It proposes strategic infrastructure projects that span provincial borders to improve domestic connectivity and engage in more diverse international trade. Suggestions include the establishment of trade corridors and zones, as well as streamlined regulatory approval processes to facilitate the development of such projects. The focus is on projects with long-term benefits for Canada's stability and prosperity.

Kalesnikoff Mass Timber has opened a 100,000 sq. ft. mass timber pre-fabrication and modular facility in Castlegar, B.C., making it North America's first. The $30 million investment aims to expand the company's product line and create around 100 new jobs. The initiative supports Canada's sustainability goals and was partially funded by various government programs. This facility will produce prefabricated wall panels, mass timber modules, and other products for efficient construction.

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has made its first investment in Nunavut, with a $6.7 million loan to support the Anuriqjuak Nukkiksautiit Project in Sanikiluaq. This initiative includes a 1-megawatt wind turbine and energy storage, aiming to replace 70% of the community's diesel use with renewable energy. The project is expected to significantly reduce emissions, lower electricity costs, and bring important social and economic benefits to the region. The investment is part of CIB's broader efforts to enhance energy security and sustainability in Canada's Far North.

BC Hydro is implementing a significant solar energy project at Anahim Lake Station, in partnership with the Ulkatcho First Nation, to integrate power from the Anahim Lake Solar Farm. This initiative aims to reduce diesel dependency in remote communities through a 3.8-megawatt solar farm and advanced microgrid technology. The project, supported by federal funding, represents a step forward in renewable energy and is expected to be completed by summer 2026.

The Government of Saskatchewan has selected PCL Construction Management Inc. to build a new 33-bed Grenfell Long-Term Care Home. The facility will include spa rooms, a commercial kitchen, and more, providing essential care for seniors in Grenfell and nearby areas. Construction is expected to start in July 2025, with completion by Spring 2027. The new care home will be managed by the Saskatchewan Health Authority and aims to enhance the quality of life for local seniors.

The City of Toronto has begun construction on the Western North York Community Recreation & Child Care Centre, an 80,000 square foot net zero facility. Set to open in 2028, the center will feature numerous amenities including pools, childcare, fitness areas, and community spaces. The project emphasizes sustainability with features like geothermal heating, low carbon concrete, and solar power. It aims to be a hub for community activities and has already been recognized with an architectural innovation award.

Infrastructure Ontario and the Ontario Ministry of Transportation have selected Skyway Bridging Partners for the development of the Garden City Skyway Bridge Twinning Project. This project involves designing a new four-lane bridge over the Welland Canal for Toronto-bound traffic while rehabilitating the existing bridge for Niagara-bound traffic. The development phase is expected to take around 19 months, followed by the potential construction of the new bridge. This expansion aims to secure vital trade routes, alleviate traffic congestion, and boost Ontario's economy.