Urban network ready to track tariff impacts

The Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) has begun to collect data to monitor how the Canada-U.S. trade conflict is affecting local and regional economies. The national organization serves as a collaborative forum for civic and business leaders, public and private sector professionals, researchers and activists to discuss urban policy, promote best practices and advocate for a strong urban voice in the decision-making of senior levels of government. Its new effort to track tariff impacts replicates a similar exercise during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“CUI is working with partners across the country to understand the impacts of economic measures at the local and regional level, and to identify actions that can be taken — by individuals, businesses, institutions, support organizations and governments — to mitigate the negative impacts and strengthen our economic resilience,” communication from the organization states.

It plans to collect data on employment levels, business activity, retail spending and investment indicators, including building permit volume, total investment in new building construction and commercial rent prices. Urban stakeholders and other interested parties are also invited to provide input through an online survey on the impact of both U.S. tariffs and Canada’s retaliatory measures and to report on how their local community may be responding.

Consistent cleaning schedules reduce operational costs in commercial spaces

One of commercial property management’s most significant challenges is maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. This isn’t a goal of pure aesthetics; it’s a critical component of operational efficiency and cost management. High-traffic commercial spaces, such as malls, office buildings, and retail stores, face unique challenges that can significantly impact their bottom line. A consistent cleaning schedule is a powerful tool that can help reduce operational costs and improve the overall return on investment (ROI).

Here are the top four benefits of a consistent cleaning program to consider (and to include in your next business pitch to potential customers):

Preventative maintenance reduces repairs

One of the most significant benefits of a consistent cleaning schedule is reducing maintenance and repair costs. Regular cleaning helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems. For example, regular floor cleaning can prevent the buildup of dirt and grime that can damage surfaces, leading to costly repairs or replacements. By catching these issues early, you can save substantial money in the long run.

Enhanced health and safety

A clean environment is a healthy environment. High-traffic areas are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria, which can lead to increased sick days and higher health care costs for employees. Consistent cleaning helps minimize the spread of illnesses, promoting a healthier and more productive workforce. This leads to reduced absenteeism and enhances overall operational efficiency.

Improved customer experience

The appearance of a commercial space directly impacts customer perception and satisfaction. A clean and well-maintained environment can enhance the customer experience, increasing foot traffic and higher sales. Conversely, a dirty or unkempt space can drive customers away, resulting in lost revenue and a declining reputation. Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule can create a positive and inviting atmosphere that encourages repeat business.

Energy efficiency

Dust and dirt can accumulate on HVAC systems, reducing efficiency and increasing energy consumption. Routine system cleaning ensures they operate at optimal levels, reducing energy costs and extending the lifespan of the equipment. This saves money and contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly operation.

Selling techniques to highlight the value of consistent cleaning

ROI analysis: Provide a detailed ROI analysis demonstrating the cost savings and benefits of a consistent cleaning and maintenance schedule. Show how the initial investment in regular services leads to significant long-term maintenance, repairs, and energy cost savings. Use real-world examples to illustrate the impact.

Testimonials and case studies: Share success stories from satisfied clients who have seen tangible benefits from implementing a rotational cleaning and maintenance schedule. Highlight specific outcomes, such as cost savings, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced operational efficiency. Actual examples, along with positive reviews and with client testimonials, can be a powerful tool in demonstrating the value of your services to potential customers.

Customized cleaning plans: Offer customized cleaning and maintenance plans tailored to each commercial space’s specific needs. Explain how a tailored approach can address unique challenges and maximize the benefits of consistent service. Emphasize your services’ flexibility and adaptability to meet your clients’ evolving needs.

Training and expertise: Highlight the training and expertise of your cleaning and maintenance staff. Explain how their knowledge and skills ensure cleaning is done effectively and efficiently, minimizing downtime and disruption. Emphasize the use of advanced cleaning and maintenance technologies and eco-friendly products that can further enhance the value of your services.

Transparent communication: Maintain open and transparent communication with your clients. Provide regular reports and updates on the impact of cleaning and maintenance activities. This transparency builds trust and demonstrates your commitment to delivering high-quality service. It also helps clients see the tangible results of their investment in consistent cleaning and maintenance.

A regular cleaning and maintenance schedule is not just a check-the-box task; it’s a strategic investment that can significantly reduce operational costs and improve the overall performance of high-traffic commercial spaces. Through the demonstration and presentation of clear, data-driven evidence, you can effectively communicate the value of your services to potential customers.

Potential clients should receive the overall message that investing in consistent cleaning and maintenance is a wise business decision that pays off in numerous ways, from cost savings and ROI to enhanced customer satisfaction and a positive reputation.

Tim Bourke is the Master Franchise Owner of Vancouver, BC, part of the Anago Cleaning Systems brand, supporting over 1800 franchises across the U.S. and Canada. For more information about Anago of Vancouver, BC, visit AnagoCleaning.com/Vancouver.

Housing starts expected to slow in Canada

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) isn’t mincing words about the detrimental effects a trade war will have on housing starts in Canada. According to CEO Kevin Lee, U.S. tariffs of 25 per cent and Canada’s countervailing tariffs will impact housing construction costs and timelines for both countries; however, the greater concern is how these tariffs will impact Canada’s overall economy.

“A slowing economy invariably means slowing housing starts, which will have expansive repercussions on housing supply, Canada’s residential construction industry, and long-term affordability,” he said.

To minimize long-term economic impacts, CHBA consulted with the federal government regarding counter tariffs, and recommended not putting any on construction materials; it also provided advice on how government officials should best target U.S. imports to reduce impacts on Canadian businesses and construction costs.

According to Lee, the key is to end the trade war as quickly as possible, on fair and acceptable terms for Canada, while taking steps to offset tariff-imposed increased costs of construction. CHBA’s Municipal Benchmarking Study outlines ways in which municipalities and other levels of government can help.

“Reducing development charges [in cities where they are high] could more than offset any increased construction costs from tariffs,” Lee said. “Measures to speed up approval processes can also save costs to offset increases from tariffs. At the Federal level, we’ve long called for fixes to the GST on new home construction, and again, those fixes could offset tariff costs, and, like development charges, should be fixed anyway.”

B.C. budget slammed by construction leaders

B.C. construction leaders are slamming the B.C. budget, calling it out of touch, out of date and insufficient.

The Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) president and CEO Chris Gardner said the combination of massive deficits, rising debt, and a looming trade war will have dire consequences for B.C.’s economy and the construction industry.

“Premier David Eby’s government is spending as if everything is fine when the reality is, British Columbia is on the brink of a recession,” said Gardner. “This budget was out of date before it was even printed. A full-blown trade war with the United States will hammer B.C. exports, drive up costs for builders, and put tens of thousands of jobs at risk.”

The B.C. budget forecasts 1.8 per cent real GDP growth in 2025, but ICBA warns that number is “wildly optimistic” given the economic damage expected from prolonged tariffs.

The Trump tariffs, and retaliatory measures from the Canadian government, are already creating uncertainty across the construction sector. The first wave of Canadian counter-tariffs includes more than $3 billion in U.S.-made home appliances, flooring materials, nails, screws, fasteners, and construction machinery, all of which will drive up costs for builders and delay projects.

“If this trade war escalates, tariffs on steel and a wide range of building products are less than three weeks away,” warned Gardner. “That’s going to hit everything from structural beams to HVAC systems and everything in between. Costs will skyrocket, projects will be delayed or cancelled, people will lose their jobs and families in all parts of our province will be the ones left paying the price.”

The British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) also expressed concerns about the budget’s insufficient support for the construction industry.

“The provincial government has made clear its commitment to defending our province and growing our economy—now, it’s time to follow through,” said Chris Atchison, president of BCCA. “The construction industry has identified straightforward strategies and solutions that will enhance resilience and drive productivity. We’re ready and willing to work with the provincial government to get these done and build a stronger B.C.”

Eliminating barriers to interprovincial trade, implementing Prompt Payment legislation, and streamlining approval and contracting processes were pointed out by the association as ways to bolster the construction industry.

“The majority of our members are concerned that economic uncertainty will reduce demand for projects in B.C.,” added Atchison. “We urge the provincial government to take immediate action by passing policies and investing in initiatives designed to protect, preserve, and power one of our province’s strongest industries and economic contributors.”

The ICBA is calling for several action items to “protect jobs and investment,” including slashing project approval timelines to speed up housing and infrastructure development; reversing tax and fee hikes; scrapping Community Benefits Agreements; focusing more on core infrastructure; and helping cities fund key municipal infrastructure.

“This government has spent years getting in the way of economic growth. Now we’re facing a crisis that requires bold action,” said Gardner. “The NDP has failed to course-correct, leaving B.C. weaker, in serious trouble and with a limited ability to respond.”

Counter tariffs bring procurement complications

Update: The United States government has issued a temporary pause on tariffs until April 2, if incoming Canadian goods are deemed “compliant” with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) on Trade. Canada will not enact a second round of proposed tariffs as long as the U.S. continues to honour this pledge.

Procurement complications have arisen throughout Canada as businesses grapple with a long list of products from the United States now to be subject to a 25 per cent import tax. For the buildings sector, that brings supply chain challenges and added costs for construction, property/facilities management and operations with new surcharges attached to a broad range of structural materials, equipment, furnishings and products purchased from the U.S.

The U.S. government provoked this new cost regime yesterday after it discarded the North American free trade agreement and imposed the sweeping tariffs on Canadian imports that it had been threatening for the past several weeks. The first round of Canada’s retaliatory tariffs, unveiled in early February, are now in force. A subsequent roster of designated products, estimated at roughly $125 billion worth of trade, has been posted for advance consultation before potentially taking effect later in March.

“The United States has chosen to pursue a harmful course of action that threatens the prosperity of both our nations,” asserts Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly. “Canada stands firm in defending our economy, workers and businesses against these unjustified tariffs.”

The new expanded list of Canadian countermeasures proposes tariffs on:

key metals such as steel, iron, aluminum, copper, nickel, tin, titanium and zinc;
stone such as granite, marble, travertine and sandstone;
cement and concrete;
gypsum and plasters;
glass, ceramics and brick;
rubber;
plastics; and
minerals and chemical formulations, such as polyvinyl chlorides, that are elements of various building products.

That’s to be compounded with tariffs on common building components fashioned from some of these materials, including windows, doors, sinks and radiators. Scaffolding, cable, hinges, castors, pipes, tubes, hoses, reservoirs, tanks, saw blades, mountings and fittings are likewise on the list.

Equipment and systems for air conditioning, electric space heating and water heating are on the list, as are refrigerators and clothes dryers. Already a big expenditure, escalators from U.S. sources would cost 25 per cent more when the second phase of counter-tariffs takes effect.

Other proposed tariffs target life safety systems and general operational functions and safeguards, including: smoke, fire and carbon monoxide detectors and associated alarms; electric relays and switches; and fuses, circuit breakers, surge suppressors and voltage limiters.

On the energy front, electricity imported from the U.S. is tapped to be taxed. So, too, are various wood-based fuels including wood chips, pellets and briquettes. A range of cells and batteries are also on the list. Meanwhile, related to energy consumption, illuminated signage would be subject to the tariff.

The initial round of tariffs, applying to an estimated $30 billion worth of trade, hit U.S. imports of engineered structural timber products used in mass timber construction. The second round goes further to include imported prefabricated buildings and modular construction components made from both wood and steel. As well, tariffs would apply on air-supported, or bubble buildings, that often house recreational facilities.

Many hand tools were captured in the first phase of tariffs, but that’s now further expanded to include spades, shovels, picks, hoes, rakes, pitch forks, hedge/pruning shears and post hole diggers. Round two of Canada’s retaliatory tariffs would also add in a few furnishing and decor items that were left out previously, including textile wall coverings, linoleum floor covering, wood window blinds and shades, plastic and rubber mats, and matting made from vegetable products such as bamboo or rattan.

Related to building maintenance and housekeeping, the second round of tariffs includes mops and mechanical floor sweepers, metal and wood polishes and various scouring pastes and powders. Looking to the outdoors, a range of flower bulbs and flowering and leafy plants are on the list, including favourites like daffodils, daisies, sunflowers, chrysanthemums, peonies, roses, rhododendrons, azaleas and fruit- and nut-bearing trees, shrubs and bushes. Tariffs would also be applied on patio umbrellas, fish for ornamental ponds and bees imported from the U.S..

The public has an opportunity to comment on this round of proposed tariffs until March 25, 2025. There will also be an avenue for importers to request exemptions or relief from the tariffs in certain circumstances. As with the first round of tariffs, new surcharges would not apply on products that were purchased but had not yet crossed the border on the day the tariffs go into effect.

“Working with provincial, territorial and industry partners, our singular focus is to get these tariffs removed as quickly as possible,” pledges Canada’s Finance Minister, Dominic LeBlanc. “The U.S.’s decision leaves us with no choice but to respond to protect Canadian interests, workers and businesses.”

Shine Awards celebrate B.C. interior designers

The Shine Awards of Excellence 2025 were held at the Vancouver Convention Centre, celebrating the best professional interior designers in B.C.

A total of 30 awards were given out in different categories with design solutions that span commercial and residential interiors.

The Shine Awards are now organized by the PIDAA – Professional Interior Designers Advocacy Association. Prior to 2024 the Shine Awards of Excellence were known as the IDIBC Awards of Excellence.

Celebrating 40 years, the annual Shine Awards of Excellence continues to showcase the excellence and innovation of registered interior designers in B.C. Awards of Excellence or Awards of Merit are presented to the outstanding submissions, culminating with the prestigious Interior Designer of the Year and Robert Ledingham Award.

The Robert Ledingham Award was presented to Sharon Hollingsworth, RID of Husk Interior Design for The Drive Duplex. Hollingsworth was also named Interior Designer of the Year.

Award of Excellence Winners

Stephanie Brown for Sunshine Coast, Residential
Husk Interior Design for The Drive Duplex, Residential
Area3 Design for Bridgecity, Marketing and Sales Centre
Stark for Perpetua Bar – IDS Installation, Specialty Project
Earls Kitchen & Bar for Earls Test Kitchen, Climate Action & Innovation

There were 22 Award of Merit winners. Some of them include:

JHA Architecture & Interiors for Magnolia Residence, Residential
Project 22 for Coal Harbour, Partial Reno
SGH Design Partners for West Fraser, Workplace & Retail
Edit Studios for Sandstorm HQ, Workplace & Retail
MCM Interiors for BDC Vancouver Head Office, Workplace & Retail

A new category called Shine on a Dime was awarded to Earls Kitchen & Bar for Earls Robson.

This year, a Heritage Commendation was handed out for Seaforth Highlanders by Kurtz Design. A Heritage Category will be added to next year’s awards submissions.

Multi-purpose event space to upgrade Cowboys Park

Cowboys Park will soon begin its transformation into a multi-functional event and festival space in downtown Calgary. These improvements will be the park’s first since 1999 and include utilities (stormwater, sanitary and potable water), electrical infrastructure, and two hardened surfaces.

Utility upgrades will allow organizers to more quickly set up, tear down and clean after events. The hardened space will accommodate Calgarians with mobility considerations and host various events, including farmer’s and holiday markets, hard surface sport and other recreational events, food festivals and more.

“With the Olympic Plaza Transformation underway, this work will make Cowboys Park a versatile space for Calgarians to use and enjoy, and will replenish our portfolio of accessible, flexible event spaces downtown,” says Kyle Ripley, director of parks and open spaces.

Planning for additional park improvements as part of phase two is underway, which will see further upgrades later this year and beyond. An online engagement opportunity for public feedback in March will allow the community to inform the future programs and activations they’d like to see in Cowboys Park. Further details will be announced as they are confirmed.

Tariffs expected to hike prices on new homes

Builders across Ontario are warning that the newly imposed tariffs will make building materials more expensive and raise prices on new homes in both Canada and the United States.

Richard Lyall, president of the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON), said the levies on materials will ultimately be passed onto consumers, accelerating the slowdown in residential construction activity and adding more pressure to the housing affordability crisis.

“Affordability is already a serious challenge for consumers on both sides of the border. It will drive inflation and costs higher right across the board which oddly contradicts the U.S. president’s stated objective of lowering prices and inflation,” he said, in a statement issued today. “The uncertainty of tariffs slowed sales and rental construction on both sides of the border. Tariffs will drive this lower to no purpose.”

The U.S. imports large amounts of steel, aluminum, lumber, cement and gypsum for use in construction. Canada exported 6.56 million tons of steel to the U.S. in 2024, and accounted for 56 per cent of aluminum imports to the U.S. in 2023. Canada also relies on materials imported from the U.S. such as plywood, glass, metal fittings, light fixtures, ceramics, electrical parts, and plumbing and mechanical components. Reciprocal tariffs will raise prices for those goods and supply chains will be disrupted as builders look for alternative sources for materials.

“This will have severe repercussions for the housing sector in the U.S. and Canada and we will undoubtedly have fewer housing starts,” Lyall warned. “The tariffs will only undermine the industry, at a time when the residential construction sector is most in need of stability and certainty.”

RESCON is part of the Canada United States Trade Council which will be providing governments guidance on trade issues facing Canada.

“Adding tariffs to the cost of building materials is irresponsible and reprehensible,” added Lyall. “It benefits no one and only adds to the cost of building a home. One tariff begets another until we are in a full-blown trade war. Tariffs are simply a bad idea and only result in chaos and higher prices for homes. There will be no winner in this trade war. Both countries will lose.”

Net-zero skills training centre coming to Scarborough

The federal government is investing more than $7.2 million to design and construct an inclusive and net-zero skills development space in Scarborough, Ontario.

The accessible facility will feature an industrial workshop, multi-purpose spaces and classrooms, while focusing on high-demand careers in skilled trades and trucking.

There will be partnerships with employers, social service agencies, educational institutions and training providers through programs and employability skills development.

Vikram Khurana, Chairman of the Toronto Business Development Centre, said the project will train local residents to fill in-demand jobs and evolve the local and Canadian job market.

“We need to support Toronto’s workers and businesses during this turbulent time,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “The Toronto Business Development Centre helps Canadian entrepreneurs to scale their ideas, brings global investors to our neighbourhoods and retrains workers, growing our economy.”

CCA: Trump’s tariffs short-sighted and damaging

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is disappointed to see that President Donald Trump has made the short-sighted decision to implement tariffs, plunging Canada and the United States into an unnecessary, irresponsible trade war that will see notable consequences on both sides of the border.

“The Canadian and American construction industries rely heavily on free-flowing supplies of essential construction materials. These needless tariffs will decrease productivity, harm economic growth, and put critical projects and countless construction jobs at risk – on both sides of the border,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of the Canadian Construction Association. “Once again, the new U.S. administration clearly demonstrates that they have a limited understanding of how damaging these measures will be on the integrated economy between our two countries.”

In response to Trump’s tariffs on Canadian products, the Government of Canada has announced tariffs on an initial $30 billion worth of American goods and promised $125 billion more in 21 days. CCA commends the federal government for its continued prioritization of industry consultation and looks forward to continuing to be an active participant in those discussions.

These tariffs present a significant risk for the construction industry. This likely means increased costs for homebuilding and trade-enabling infrastructure, impacts to supply chains and trading relationships, and a weakening of economic development and productivity.

While the federal government is right to respond in kind, CCA reiterates its call for all governments to consider economic measures to support Canadian businesses and stimulate our economy, in consultation with industry.

“Once again, this is a time where we need all Canadians to stand up for Canada. This is not the time to sit on our hands – we all have to work together to increase productivity and support Canadian businesses, so that we can all build a stronger Canada and surmount this trade conflict,” said Gilbert.

U.S. REIT to acquire Amica Senior Lifestyles

High-end seniors housing provider, Amica Senior Lifestyles, is set for new ownership. Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan has agreed to sell the portfolio of 38 properties to the U.S.-based real estate investment trust, Welltower Inc., for CAD $4.6 billion.

The deal also includes a long-term partnership agreement that will see Amica’s existing management team continue to oversee portfolio operations, as the residences get enfolded into Welltower’s larger holding of interests in seniors housing, medical office and health care facilities throughout Canada, the United States and United Kingdom. A statement from the REIT confirms the purchase price “represents a substantial discount to estimated replacement cost” of the Amica residences, which are located in Ontario and British Columbia. The new partnership is now targeting expansion in affluent neighbourhoods of Toronto, Vancouver and Victoria.

“Against a backdrop of rapidly growing demand and limited new supply, we expect the portfolio to drive outsized revenue and cash flow growth in the coming years,” says Welltower’s chief executive officer, Shankh Mitra.

Ontario Teachers’ is divesting the portfolio after 15 years of ownership. The pension fund acquired Amica in 2010 and then, in tandem with its management, executed a deal to take the company private five years later. Today, the portfolio occupies what its new owners describe as an “ultra-luxury” market niche, which currently encompasses 31 income-producing residences and seven projects under development.

“For the last 15 years, Ontario Teachers’ has acted as an extension of our internal team,” says Amica’s co-founder and chief investment officer, Robert Ezer. “We are grateful for how they’ve supported our strategic ambitions, and we are now looking forward to working and partnering with the team at Welltower to help carry this growth momentum forward.”

Calgary construction welcomes Alberta budget

The Calgary Construction Association (CCA) is praising the Government of Alberta’s 2025-26 budget, which outlines commitments to significant investments in workforce development, economic immigration, and critical infrastructure.

“Alberta’s construction sector plays a critical role in the province’s economic growth, and these investments will help address pressing workforce shortages while supporting much-needed infrastructure projects,” said Bill Black, president and CEO of the Calgary Construction Association. “We commend the government’s proactive approach to skills training, apprenticeship support, and immigration pathways that will help build a strong, resilient construction workforce.”

The government has committed to expanding Alberta’s talent pipeline through a $135.5 million investment in apprenticeship programming, including $78 million to increase available seats. This funding will provide more Albertans with access to skilled trades training and career opportunities, according to the CCA.

Additionally, the province is allocating $1 million in planning funds for the Trades and Apprenticeship Promotional Plan, which aims to encourage young people to pursue careers in skilled trades through hands-on learning. The CCA has long advocated for greater awareness and promotion of construction careers, and this initiative aligns with the industry’s need to attract the next generation of skilled workers.

Further, a $70 million investment in Skills and Training Support programs will help Albertans transition into in-demand fields, including construction, through specialized training and re-training initiatives.

In the budget, the government also stated it intends to remove barriers to speed up the credential recognition process for workers from other provinces and countries with equivalent standards.

“Expanding skilled immigration pathways and streamlining credential recognition are key steps in ensuring Alberta has the workforce needed to meet our growing infrastructure demands,” said Black.

The CCA also notes the continued implementation of Stronger Foundations, Alberta’s 10-year affordable housing strategy, which aims to provide safe, stable, and affordable housing for 25,000 additional households by 2032-33. Increased investment in housing is essential to ensuring Alberta remains an affordable and attractive place to live and work.

Atlantic provinces unite in face of Trump tariffs

Canada’s Atlantic provinces have responded to Donald Trump’s sweeping 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods with retaliatory plans of their own. In a statement released March 4, 2005, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston refers to Trump as “a short-sighted man who wields his power just for the sake of it, without consideration for the destructive impact of his decisions on both Canadians and Americans.”

Nova Scotia says it will immediately limit access to provincial procurement for American businesses while actively seeking options to cancel existing contracts until President Trump removes what Houston refers to as “unlawful tariffs.” It will also be doubling the cost of tolls at the Cobequid Pass for commercial vehicles coming from the United States and directing the Nova Scotia Liquor Corp. to remove all U.S. alcohol from its shelves effective immediately.

As part of Budget 2025-26, Nova Scotia has added a contingency fund to respond to U.S. tariffs, although the details are still unclear.

“We introduced legislation designed to break down barriers to interprovincial trade. We must be open for business in Canada,” Houston wrote. “We hope all provinces and territories immediately endorse and pass corresponding legislation.”

Meanwhile in New Brunswick, similar steps will be taken to support local businesses and limit job losses, including redirecting provincial procurement efforts within Canada and, where possible, replacing existing contracts with U.S. companies.

“Our economies are deeply connected, supporting workers and businesses on both sides of the border in sectors such as energy, seafood, forestry, agriculture and aquaculture, among others,” Premier Susan Holt said in February, referring to its U.S. trade relations. “New Brunswick works closely with New England governors and eastern Canadian premiers to benefit our workers, businesses and people. We have especially strong ties with the State of Maine, our neighbouring border state.”

In light of Trump’s tariffs, the NB government says it is reviewing internal trade barriers and vows to work closely with other Atlantic provinces to find new markets for items traditionally exported to the U.S., including seafood and lumber.

New mixed-use tower planned for Yaletown

Vancouver based Nonni Property Group (NPG) is planning an iconic 30-storey mixed-use tower in Vancouver’s vibrant Yaletown neighbourhood. The development will feature market leading rental residential units, state-of-the-art office space, and a bespoke 225 plus room Marriott Autograph Collection hotel under Marriott International’s Autograph Collection brand.

Strategically located at 888-896 Cambie Street at the intersection of Cambie and Smithe, the development will be moments away from Vancouver’s entertainment venues, including BC Place Stadium and Rogers Arena. The architectural vision, crafted by NPG and McKinley Studios, promises to transform the location and streetscape with its innovative west coast design, premium materials, and welcoming public spaces. A highlight of the development will be its upscale 5-star restaurant and bar, designed to energize Vancouver’s entertainment scene and align with the mayor’s initiative to make the city fun again.

As part of the development, NPG has secured a 25-year franchise agreement with Marriott International for an Autograph Collection Hotel, which will be managed by the leading industry management company Hotel Equities. Part of the award-winning Marriott Bonvoy travel program, Autograph Collection Hotels are known for their distinct perspectives on design and hospitality — with no two properties looking the same — and the hotel’s design will incorporate elements that celebrate Yaletown’s character and Vancouver’s unique identity.

“NPG supports the City of Vancouver and we are pleased to advance our position in this iconic development. Our investment in this project represents a thoughtful approach to the community as well as the integration of architecture and purposeful use elements. This will bring vitality to the neighborhood while addressing Vancouver’s critical needs for quality rental housing and premium hotel accommodations,” said Gino Nonni, CEO. “This excellent mixed-use development marks our strategic expansion into the hospitality sector while strengthening our position in purpose-built rental properties, advancing our commitment to developing and managing exceptional income-producing assets.”

The mixed use tower development is currently pending approval from the City of Vancouver.

B.C. industry expects budget disappointment

British Columbia Construction Association president Chris Atchison said the construction industry should be prepared to be disappointed by the provincial government’s upcoming Budget 2025 announcement.

“Government has telegraphed some areas of sacrifice and disappointment, but as an industry it shouldn’t be (up to) us to bear the brunt of it,” he said. “We shouldn’t stand for it.”

Atchison along Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West and Impact Public Affairs manager of government relations and strategy Sajjid Lakhani shared insights on political issues impacting the construction industry at the Buildex Vancouver construction keynote.

“For the last several months, we’ve been suspended state of chaos… that provides a certain amount of cover for elected officials to expect no response, a delayed response or lack of commitment is OK because of that uncertainty,” said Atchinson.

He stressed that the industry needs to be “relentless” in what it wants and needs to ensure prosperity not only for their sector but the entire province.

“There’s no question the province is signaling it is entering a period of restraint,” said West. “The challenge is that this is coming at the tail end of the province and Metro Vancouver experiencing unprecedented population growth. The pressure on our infrastructure is enormous. The government has to get their priorities straight.”

When it comes to interprovincial trader barriers and permitting challenges, Atchinson was critical of the ongoing lack of government action. “Interprovincial trade barriers – that could’ve been addressed a long time ago,” he said.

Another example of provincial government inaction is the issue of prompt payment legislation and lien reform. The association has been advocating tirelessly for payment certainty and laid out a road map for the provincial government.

“There is zero cost associated with this,” said Atchinson. “The legislation already exists in Alberta, Ontario and everywhere in between. We are by the far the farthest behind of any jurisdiction in Canada in getting going on this absolute need.”

Lakhani advised that business need to keep politicians accountable and to continue advocating for change so that the “government understands the urgency of the situation we’re in and the contributions your industry makes.”

The threat of U.S. President Trump imposing substantial tariffs is also one of the industry’s top concerns.

“The tariffs are going to have a significant impact. What I hope is we approach this with a level of urgency and vigour required. Government can move effectively and quickly when it wants to,” said West. “Politicians need to put our elbows up a bit… because words are easy but actions are what matters.”

Atchinson said the industry needs to be prepared, “the issue around tariffs is one that will impact the construction industry greatly and it won’t be U.S. tariffs, it will be the retaliatory Canadian tariffs which will have the most dire implications for construction.”

He cautioned that costs will skyrocket on current projects, not just future jobs. “People need to be aware this can have lasting business implications. Make sure you understand your contracts. Start having those difficult conversations with your contractors and owners now. Don’t wait.”

Cheryl Mah is managing editor of Construction Business

Wastewater energy transfer flush with potential

Toronto’s first major wastewater energy transfer (WET) project is expected to be commissioned later this year, supplying heating and cooling to Toronto Western Hospital through thermal energy exchange technology. City Council is now sorting out general protocols for up to nine additional projects that would use Toronto’s sanitary trunk sewers as both heat sources and sinks.

A report from the Environment, Climate and Forestry division, to be discussed at Toronto Council’s next meeting in late March, proposes a review and approval process along with some cost-recovery fees for staff time and supply of sewer data that prospective energy customers may require. Earlier studies have determined that the trunk sewer network has the capacity to provide up to 300 megawatts (MW) of energy for heating purposes, displacing enough natural gas to avoid about 200,000 tonnes greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions annually.

To begin, the project at Toronto Western Hospital is projected to curb natural gas demand by 90 per cent, translating into an approximate 8,400 tonne annual reduction in GHG emissions, while heat rejection back into the sewer system will reduce the hospital’s cooling load by 5 MW of peak demand. In a letter to Council’s infrastructure and environment committee, Dennis Fotinos, founder and chief executive officer of the project’s developer, Noventa Energy Partners, maintained the nascent technology expands the range of practical renewable energy applications in dense urban environments.

“At our Toronto Western Hospital project, for instance, over 1,500 bore holes would have been required to provide the same environmental benefits with a geo-exchange system — something which simply was not viable,” he advised.

Wastewater energy transfer is also a potential revenue generator for the City of Toronto. It’s proposed that the Environment, Climate and Forestry division would negotiate an energy transfer fee (ETF) on a project-by-project basis, which would charge a specified rate per unit of energy recovered (heat) or rejected (cooling) through the thermal exchange.

“Access to the City’s sewer system and wastewater is provided on an ‘as is, where is’ basis, meaning the City makes no guarantees whatsoever with respect to resource quantity or quality of the City’s sewer system and wastewater and all projects are subject to the operational and other requirements of Toronto Water,” the report to Council states. “The City is not procuring any good or service in respect to any third-party wastewater energy program project, but simply providing limited access to the City’s wastewater infrastructure for projects approved under this program, provided that the project generates benefits to the City.”

Exploring innovation in AI and green cleaning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to revolutionize the professional cleaning industry in silent yet significant ways. While robotic cleaning devices like vacuum cleaners, floor scrubbers, window washers, and disinfection systems have become commonplace in our industry, AI-powered cleaning systems, now being introduced, will offer far more innovation and sophisticated capabilities.

Unlike cleaning robots that follow pre-programmed routines, AI systems analyze data, make intelligent decisions, and suggest new cleaning routines. Further, with the use of sensors, these AI systems can talk to robotic cleaning systems, putting them to work where cleaning is needed.

Further, AI can determine optimal cleaning schedules, adjust cleaning frequencies based on facility usage patterns, and identify areas requiring much more or much less cleaning attention.

This innovative approach helps cleaning contractors and facility managers:

Monitor and respond to actual cleaning needs in real time
Adapt to changing occupancy levels in different areas of the facility
Optimize resource allocation to improve cleaning efficiencies
Reduce operational costs

To better understand what AI has in store for our industry, including helping to further green cleaning and sustainability, let’s delve into some of these AI applications. With a closer look, we will be able to see how AI benefits cleaning service providers and facility managers, enhancing their operations, the health of their facilities, and customer satisfaction.

Predicting cleaning needs with AI

Canada’s office vacancy rate stands at 18.7 per cent, matching U.S. levels, and is expected to hold steady through 2025. However, some regions of both countries may see their vacancy rates come down.

In areas where vacancy rates are coming down, AI systems can help optimize cleaning operations by:

Analyzing and storing historical cleaning data to provide a benchmark for future cleaning operations
Monitoring current building usage and foot traffic patterns
Using sensors to automatically identify areas that need less frequent or more frequent cleaning, referred to as demand cleaning.

In other words, AI takes the guesswork out of cleaning, helping contractors and building managers maintain consistent cleanliness standards while demonstrating an elevated level of adaptability to changing occupancy patterns. The result is improved tenant satisfaction and more efficient and targeted cleaning services.

Resource management in facility cleaning

Labour costs dominate facility cleaning expenses, accounting for up to 90 per cent of total cleaning costs. This makes efficient resource management essential. AI technology enhances resource efficiency in three key ways:

The first is through demand-based cleaning mentioned earlier. This approach ensures the correct number of cleaners are working at the right times, preventing both costly overstaffing and service-damaging understaffing.

Second, AI works with the Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to enable real-time cleaning responses. When sensors detect areas needing additional attention, they can automatically deploy cleaning robots to address the issue.

Third, AI helps manage cleaning-supply inventory, which is particularly important for large facilities where supply costs are substantial. By analyzing historical and current usage data, AI can accurately predict which products are needed and in what quantities, minimizing waste and reducing costs.

Predictive maintenance

AI can evaluate the usage frequency of a cleaning machine and assist in forecasting when maintenance and repairs might be required. Traditionally, cleaning contractors faced uncertainty regarding potential machine breakdowns, often experiencing failures at critical times. AI helps eliminate this.

Predicting maintenance needs enables cost reduction, ensures uninterrupted cleaning operations, and increases the machine’s lifespan.

AI and custodial training

AI can significantly enhance worker training by creating customized and standardized training materials, including infographics, slides, and step-by-step text instructions.

Additionally, AI can develop videos, which have proven highly effective for teaching cleaning tasks. This leads to improved quality and consistency, benefiting facility managers and cleaning contractors.

Taking this a step further, some AI systems will become personal mentors, providing instructions not only on how to perform specific cleaning tasks but also provide support for individual cleaning workers. Learning is improved and workload is reduced for cleaning contractors and supervisors.

Steve Ashkin is CEO and founder of The Ashkin Group; an internationally recognized consulting firm working to Green the professional cleaning industry and help organizations implement effective and cost-effective sustainability programs. His commitment to Green Cleaning and sustainability is more than business, it is a passion, a calling, and a mission in life. He can be reached at [email protected].

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