Latest articles and insights from the construction industry
4 months ago
The Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes is inviting feedback from code users, the codes community, and the public for the 2026 public review of proposed changes to the 2025 editions of the National Model Codes. The review covers various topics such as accessibility, energy efficiency, fire protection, and more.
4 months ago
The Ontario government has recently launched the Roadmap to Protecting Ontario’s Forest Sector, a 10-year plan aimed at safeguarding the workers, businesses, families, and communities in the province's forestry sector. The plan focuses on defending workers, adapting the sector to be more competitive, and growing long-term demand for Ontario's forestry products.
4 months ago
The Canadian office market is experiencing a decline in vacancy rates as companies and governments mandate employees to return to the office. Colliers predicts a return to pre-pandemic vacancy rates by 2029, with top-tier buildings leading the recovery.
4 months ago
Rosehaven Homes is offering a unique payment model for The Rebecca Residences in downtown Hamilton, allowing buyers to pay weekly installments instead of a large downpayment. The extended deposit program aims to make homeownership more accessible for aspiring buyers.
4 months ago
Bruce Power has been given the green light to start workforce planning, pre-construction, and site prep planning for a proposed 4,800 MW nuclear generating station in Tiverton, Ontario. The Province of Ontario has directed the IESO to enter into a cost-sharing agreement to support these activities, expected to cost $300 million and be completed by 2030. The project will create jobs during construction and once operational, providing power for 4.8 million homes.
4 months ago
Burgundy Diamond Mines Ltd., the owner of The Ekati Diamond Mine in the Northwest Territories, has filed for insolvency protection citing factors such as U.S. tariffs on the natural diamond industry and increasing fuel costs. The company plans to engage in discussions with lenders, creditors, and stakeholders to explore restructuring options. The diamond industry in the Northwest Territories is facing challenges with mines closing down, creating uncertainty for workers and communities.
4 months ago
Alberta's government has hired over 550 seasonal firefighters and equipped them with helicopters with night-vision capability. The province has also purchased five new water bombers to enhance their wildfire response. Municipalities facing wildfires will receive $125,000 in support this year.
4 months ago
The BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA) has launched the second year of its bursary program, offering up to $60,000 to B.C. workers and students pursuing post-secondary education in construction safety and related fields. The program aims to support the next generation of safety professionals in the construction industry.
4 months ago
Bird Construction Inc. has partnered with Marten Falls First Nation to establish Piinahzii Limited Partnership, a majority Indigenous-owned entity focused on community infrastructure projects within the Marten Falls Traditional Territory. The partnership aims to support both immediate needs and long-term development goals while prioritizing community values and sustainable outcomes.
4 months ago
Artificial Intelligence Minister Evan Solomon announced a delay in the release of the federal government's new national AI strategy, promising a focus on the technology's impacts on the labour market. The strategy, initially set to be tabled by the end of last year, is now expected to be released 'very soon.' Solomon highlighted the evolving nature of AI's impact and ongoing consultations with various stakeholder groups.
4 months ago
A recent feasibility study compared mass timber and concrete designs for a 12-storey residential rental building in Dartmouth, N.S. The study showed that while mass timber initially appeared more expensive, factors like construction schedule and foundation weight could narrow the cost gap. Sidewalk Real Estate Development is considering mass timber for the project, citing benefits such as quicker construction and lower embodied carbon. The decision on the building type is pending, with potential factors like zoning changes and grant funding playing a role.
4 months ago
Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled the 'Team Canada Strong' initiative aimed at training 100,000 new trades workers over the next five years. The announcement includes significant policy implications and financial commitments to support recruitment, training, hiring, and apprenticeship completion in the construction industry.