Latest articles and insights from the construction industry
2 months ago
The Ontario government has announced a $35 million investment in the Art Gallery of Ontario's expansion project, the Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery. The project will add at least 13 new galleries across five floors, increasing the museum's gallery space by 40,000 square feet. Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2027, with the design featuring flexible spaces to accommodate various programming needs.
2 months ago
Statistics Canada reported a 0.2% increase in real GDP in February, driven by a 1.8% growth in the manufacturing sector. The growth was supported by the machinery subsector and transportation equipment manufacturing. Despite a year of tariffs and trade threats from the US, manufacturing activity was down by 3.1% annually. Other sectors contributing to the growth were wholesale trade and transportation and warehousing, while the public sector and arts, entertainment, and recreation industry experienced contractions.
2 months ago
The conventional wisdom around housing affordability in Ontario is challenged, highlighting a shortage of serviced, approved, and buildable land due to decades of policy choices. The article discusses the impact of government charges, approval timelines, and planning rules on housing costs, comparing Ontario to jurisdictions like Alberta and Texas. It emphasizes the need for reducing government charges, shortening approval timelines, reforming supply constraints, and recognizing the inseparability of housing affordability and feasibility.
2 months ago
A unique property on Pender Island, featuring a fig orchard, private pond, and a renovated West Coast-style home, is now available for $1.2 million. The listing at 5582 Hooson Rd offers a blend of indoor-outdoor living with modern amenities and ample open space. The property also includes a mature fig orchard, a private pond, and potential for future development.
2 months ago
During a roundtable discussion in Washington, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer reiterated the 'America First' policy to Canadian attendees, emphasizing the administration's goals for the upcoming review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico-Agreement. Greer highlighted the importance of energy collaboration between the two countries and expressed the desire for mutually beneficial development in critical minerals. The meeting also touched on Canada's green energy transition and its potential impact on trade relations with the U.S.
2 months ago
The City of Vancouver is conducting a review of its Higher Buildings Policy for downtown areas to explore increased height allowances and public benefits. The review aims to shape the city's skyline while considering livability and sustainability.
2 months ago
President Donald Trump granted approval for the Bridger Pipeline Expansion, a new oil pipeline carrying oil from Canada into the U.S. for export and refining. The project faces environmental concerns and opposition from groups worried about potential spills.
2 months ago
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced additional financial support for skilled trades apprentices in the Liberal government's Spring Economic Update. The move aims to address the financial challenges faced by apprentices attending trades school.
2 months ago
Calgary city council has voted in a new water conservation strategy to address the city's flawed water system, including limits on lawn watering and funds towards sealing leaky pipes. The goal is to reduce water demand, update water meters, and cut the city's per capita rate of water use by 20% by 2040.
2 months ago
A Singapore-based private company, Boroo Ltd., has been chosen as a potential buyer for the defunct Eagle Gold mine in Yukon. The company has entered into an exclusivity agreement with the court-appointed receiver to negotiate the sale of the mine and related assets. The Yukon government is involved in the sale process to protect the interests of Yukoners.
2 months ago
Alberta's government has announced the introduction of four new expedited teaching certificates to help address the growing need for teachers in classrooms. These certificates will allow qualified individuals, including bachelor of education students, internationally trained teachers, tradespeople, and skilled professionals, to enter classrooms sooner. The province emphasizes the importance of diverse skills and experience in teachers to support students effectively.
2 months ago
Indigenous Elders, families, and individuals in Vancouver have started moving into 81 new homes at the Chief Leonard George Building, a nine-storey structure named after the late Chief Leonard George of səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). The project was a collaboration between BC Housing, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the City of Vancouver, and the BC Indigenous Housing Society. The building, located at 1766 Frances St., replaces a property damaged by fire in 2017 and offers a mix of studio to four-bedroom units with amenities like a child care facility.