Articles from Nenew Canada

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.

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 British Columbia has commenced construction on the Highway 1 bus-on-shoulder project, which aims to improve transit between downtown Victoria and the Westshore. This project is part of the larger South Island Transportation Strategy to enhance rapid transit options. It will include new bus lanes, ecological restoration, and improved pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure. The project is expected to be completed by late 2027, funded jointly by the province and federal government.

The Association of Consulting Engineering Companies British Columbia (ACEC-BC) recently held its annual Awards for Engineering Excellence, recognizing the outstanding innovative and technical contributions of engineering firms in the province. Premier David Eby applauded the profession's impact on infrastructure. Firms and individuals were awarded for various categories such as Buildings, Bridges, Municipal Infrastructure, and more. Some recipients included Klohn Crippen Berger, AtkinsRéalis, and WSP, among others.

Construction is set to begin on a new student residence at Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Burnaby, providing 445 additional beds, with plans for a new child care facility starting later this year. These developments aim to decrease commute times and ease pressure on the local rental market, in a project with a total capital cost of $196.6 million funded by the Province and SFU. The project is part of SFU's ongoing student-housing expansion, with phases 1 and 2 already adding 856 beds. The new facilities are expected to be completed by fall 2027.

The City of Kelowna has initiated the redevelopment of the Parkinson Recreation Centre as part of its 'Building a Stronger Kelowna' initiative. This project, in collaboration with the Westbank First Nation and the Okanagan Nation Alliance, aims to create an inclusive and vibrant space for the community. The new facility will include expanded amenities such as pools, gyms, childcare spaces, and more, backed by significant funding from municipal and provincial sources. It is the largest capital project in the city's history, set to enhance community well-being and connection.

The Government of British Columbia has introduced the Infrastructure Projects Act to expedite the construction of major infrastructure projects, such as schools and hospitals, by improving permitting and approval processes. The legislation aims to create jobs and support economic growth amid uncertainties like international trade tariffs. It empowers a new Ministry of Infrastructure to streamline project delivery and coordinate with various entities. However, some industry groups criticize the act for not addressing broader issues across all construction sectors.

Construction has started on a new BC Children’s Hospital facility in British Columbia, aimed at supporting children and youth with complex care needs. This three-storey centre, the first of its kind in Canada, will provide in-person and virtual services across BC and the Yukon, and feature 16 suites for short stays, an Indigenous healing garden, and other community facilities. The project emphasizes a holistic approach including wellness and support services for families and caregivers, with completion expected in December 2027 and opening in early 2028.

The Government of British Columbia is advancing three road-improvement projects to enhance the safety and reliability of Cariboo roads affected by landslides and washouts. Projects include improvements on Kersley-Dale Landing Road, Quesnel-Hydraulic Road, and Bastin Road at Bastin Hill. These initiatives aim to create climate-resilient infrastructure benefiting locals, businesses, and travelers. Some previously closed roads, like Durrell Road in Quesnel, will remain closed with alternative routes provided.