Latest articles and insights from the construction industry
4 months ago
The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) housing market experienced a combination of rising home sales and decreased new listings in April 2026, leading to tighter market conditions. Average prices dipped, but signs of stabilization may indicate a shift in the market dynamics.
4 months ago
Premier David Eby confirms that the Burnaby Hospital Phase 2 expansion project will move forward despite the cancellation of the construction contract. The project, which includes adding 160 beds and a cancer center, will undergo a reset to ensure responsible completion. The government's decision to cancel the contract was due to budget overruns and changes in project scope that key community members felt excluded from.
4 months ago
Construction and engineering stakeholders express cautious support for the new federal initiatives announced in the Spring Economic Update, including the Canada Strong Fund and the Team Canada Strong skilled trades program. While they acknowledge the potential benefits of these initiatives, stakeholders emphasize the importance of careful project selection and efficient implementation.
4 months ago
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announces the approval of a cross-border oil pipeline project by U.S. President Donald Trump. The project, a joint venture between Calgary-based South Bow and U.S.-based Bridger, aims to deliver over half a million barrels per day of Alberta oil to facilities and refineries in the U.S. Environmentalists express concerns over potential spills, while the project awaits additional state and federal approvals before construction begins next year.
4 months ago
The Building Trades of Alberta (BTA) recently met with Premier Danielle Smith to discuss economic growth, project delivery, and skilled trades workers readiness in Alberta. The meeting highlighted alignment between the Government of Alberta's priorities and the BTA's Strategic Action Plan, focusing on workforce development, productivity, and labour mobility.
4 months ago
The Schaap Center for the Performing Arts and Richard and Jane Manoogian Art Gallery in Detroit has sparked controversy as some residents feel it has become a source of division rather than unity. Despite its grand opening scheduled for May, the $50 million center has faced criticism for its impact on the community and planning interests. While some praise its potential to bridge the gap between Detroit and its suburbs, others argue that it has failed to engage the community effectively.
4 months ago
The arrival of the first major module at Woodfibre LNG in May 2025 marked a significant shift in how projects are built in Canada, particularly on Indigenous land. The Squamish Nation's involvement in the project showcases a new model of collaboration and shared authority that is redefining the construction industry's approach to development.
4 months ago
Construction Safety Week is focusing on recognizing, responding, and respecting high energy hazards in the construction industry. The importance of early identification and prevention of serious injuries and fatalities is highlighted. Various initiatives and tools are being used to improve hazard recognition and response.
4 months ago
Despite Prime Minister Mark Carney's previous announcement of a clean electricity strategy, the federal government has yet to release it. The government plans to seek input from provinces and territories on modernizing the grid through a discussion paper. A new nuclear energy strategy is also expected to be released by the end of the year.
4 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.
4 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.
4 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.