Articles from Canadian Consulting Engineer

Consulting engineering firms Gemtec and Keystone, along with modular bridge supplier Acrow and contractor Looby Construction, have replaced the aging Blakeney Bridge in Mississippi Mills, Ontario with a new two-bridge system. Originally built in 1915, the single-lane bridge had been repaired over time, most notably in 2000. The replacement project began in 2023 and involved foundational investigations and design recommendations by Gemtec, followed by construction of prefabricated modular steel bridges, one 150-ft long and the other 90-ft long. The project concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 17.

Morguard, in collaboration with CENGN and Nokia, has launched three 'Smart Building Living Labs' in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. This $6.5 million project aims to advance smart-building technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and connectivity. Utilizing Nokia's 5G connectivity, these labs will test and implement technologies such as sensors, robotics, and AI systems. The initiative is part of CENGN's Living Lab Initiative, supported by federal funding, to develop and scale market-ready technologies.

CIMA+ has become the first consulting engineering firm to partner with DistriQ's quantum innovation zone in Sherbrooke, Quebec. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of quantum technologies by pooling diverse expertise and providing cybersecurity support. CIMA+ will assist quantum technology solution designers in adapting their offerings for energy and digital technology projects. This strategic partnership aligns with CIMA+'s values of innovation and community support.

The city council of Guelph, Ontario, has approved Fusion Homes’ plan for the Guelph Innovation District, a sprawling 325-acre 'city within a city'. Engineering firms MTE, NRSI, and GHD are part of the project, providing services from civil engineering to environmental consulting and traffic analysis. The development aims to integrate workplaces, homes, and amenities while emphasizing sustainable design. The next phase of planning involves an official plan amendment, zoning, and subdivision applications.

Bouthillette Parizeau et Associés (BPA) will provide mechanical, electrical, and structural services for the deep-energy retrofit of around 80 buildings at Concordia University's campuses in Montreal. The initiative, part of the university’s PLAN/NET ZERØ, starts with upgrading the Guy-De Maisonneuve Building to improve lighting and HVAC systems. The goal is to reduce energy consumption by up to 50% and achieve various sustainability certifications. Johnson Controls will manage the project over a two-year design and construction period followed by a 10-year operation and maintenance phase.

Margaret Parkhill has joined Arup's Toronto office as a principal and bus rapid transit leader for the Americas. With more than 20 years of experience in transportation planning and design, she has worked with major consulting firms such as HDR, Hatch, and Arcadis. Parkhill will lead the expansion of Arup’s BRT services across the Americas, working with transit agencies, municipal governments, and private-sector clients. She aims to enhance systems that positively impact communities.

The International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) awarded Canadian engineers and projects during its annual global infrastructure conference in Cape Town. Catherine Karakatsanis received a Special Recognition Award, and Negin Tousi was honored with the Future Leader Award. The large projects prize went to gbi for their energy-efficient design in Montreal, while CIMA+ won in the small to medium project category for flood mitigation infrastructure in Kelowna, B.C.

Arsalan Zargar has been appointed as senior vice-president of transportation at CIMA+ for Western Canada and Ontario. With over 20 years of experience in the transportation and infrastructure sectors, Zargar will lead the development and implementation of CIMA+'s strategic transportation plans. He has previously worked with companies such as WSP, Infrastructure Ontario, and EllisDon, and has taught infrastructure financing at York University. His appointment has been effective since September 8.

The Construction Plastics Initiative (CPI) Benchmarking Study by Vancouver-based Light House assesses plastic waste management in Canadian construction projects. It highlights that plastics are often under-tracked and under-managed, calling for better reporting and recycling practices. The study aims to guide the industry towards a circular economy, supported by initiatives like pilot programs in British Columbia. It suggests that plastic diversion rates could eclipse 80% with improved practices and partnerships.

CIMA+, based in Quebec, and Keywest Projects from Calgary have formed a strategic partnership focusing on sustainable energy projects in Western Canada. The partnership integrates CIMA+'s engineering capabilities in various fields with Keywest's experience in energy-sector projects. This collaboration aims to address the evolving needs of the energy sector, with a focus on innovation and efficiency for clients. The partnership was effective since July and officially announced in late August.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the first series of infrastructure projects to be referred to the Major Projects Office (MPO), aimed at expediting large-scale national projects through streamlined regulatory assessments and financing structures. The five projects include expansions and new developments in LNG, nuclear energy, container ports, and mining, with a combined estimated cost of over $60 billion. The MPO will also focus on emerging projects in critical minerals, wind energy, carbon capture, and transportation infrastructure. These efforts are intended to align with fast-track approval within two years.

The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) has selected CIMA+ to design its new centre in Ignace, Ontario, focusing on sustainable development and community engagement. The center, expected to open in 2028, will support research and development on nuclear waste management and will include public viewing areas. CIMA+ will also assist with procuring a constructor and will act as an engineering representative during the construction phase. This project represents collaboration with local and Indigenous communities and aims to contribute to economic prosperity in Ignace.