Graham completes innovative pedestrian overpass

Graham announced that the 16th Avenue at 29th Street Pedestrian Overpass, in Calgary, was substantially completed and has officially opened to the public. Graham delivered the project on time and on budget.

This milestone marks a noteworthy achievement, coming exactly one year after construction began last winter.

The pedestrian overpass is a showcase of precision engineering and thoughtful design. Featuring a single-span steel through truss with precast panels, the overpass includes architectural handrails embedded with LED lighting, cast-in-place concrete ramps and stairs, and integrated landscaping and pathway tie-ins. Spanning 50m over 16th Avenue NW (Trans-Canada Highway), it provides a safe and accessible connection between critical medical facilities, transportation hubs, local pathways, and the rapidly growing UXBorough development, and adjacent communities.

The overpass links to to Calgary’s New Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre.

Key construction highlights include:

Foundation and Structure: 26 concrete piles, each ranging from 13 to 18 metres deep, support the 50-metre steel bridge, which features precast concrete deck panels.
Innovative Formwork: Custom-molded foam formwork was used to achieve the intricate curves of the ramps and column caps, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics.
Site Logistics: The construction was executed within a compact 5,600m² site footprint, adjacent to the bustling 16th Avenue and Foothills Medical Centre/ Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre, showcasing the team’s ability to manage high-traffic environments effectively.
Steel Fabrication and Installation: The steel bridge was fabricated in Montana and transported to Calgary in three massive sections. The planning, coordination, and logistics involved in this process exemplified teamwork and precision. On-site, the sections were welded together and lifted into place with millimeter accuracy using two cranes.
Safety and Accessibility Features: The project included 460m of galvanized pedestrian railing, equipped with custom lighting pods to illuminate the ramps and bridge, enhancing both safety and aesthetics.

Aquatic facility makes a splash in B.C.

The təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre in New Westminster, B.C., was named after the playful, curious nature of a sea otter and its family-oriented personality. This storytelling reflects the kind of visitor experience the local community was hoping to create at the newly completed facility.

Meaning “Sea Otter House” in the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ language, təməsew̓txʷ encompasses a gathering place where social connection, inclusivity and participation thrive, and supports the city’s desire for reconciliation, which was a key element for hcma architecture + design’s vision.

The firm took a multilayered approach in this respect, which included an Indigenous blessing ceremony at the grand opening and, beforehand, the involvement of a naming advisory committee composed of representatives from Spirit of the Children Society, Qayqayt, q̓ʷa:̩n̓ƛən̓ (Kwantlen), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nations, staff from School District 40 and city officials.

Throughout an Indigenous engagement process, designers also learned how the centre must be welcoming to Indigenous youth in a time of crisis or when home feels unsafe.

As a companion piece to təməsew̓txʷ, Indigenous artist and master carver James Harry of Squamish Nation created a public art installation called Miyíw̓ts (“Water’s Edge”) as a way to inspire collective pride. The mirror polished stainless steel sculpture stands 16 feet high and reflects the strength and power of the site’s former Glenbrook Ravine.

“As I visited this site, I was moved and inspired by the way water had carved away the earth and stone in the ravine, creating intricate shapes that spoke to the history of the land,” Harry said in an artist’s statement.

“I grew up in New Westminster as an Indigenous student. It was the beginning of a time of growing awareness of the power of my ancestry and the complexity of my peoples’ history. My personal journey, combined with these awakenings, helped me create a sculpture that reflects the strength and power of the ravine site while referencing my Salish roots.”

Over the past few years, hcma has been embedding Indigenous design principles in various projects. The firm’s in-house indigenous design studio, led by Aiden Callison, continues to push the status quo by working with First Nations in the region to shift power and find opportunities to decolonize processes, systems and projects.

To further advance reconciliation efforts, the architects approached the design of the 114,571-square-foot centre—the city’s largest capital project to date—as an extension of the land.

“The centre is situated on the edge of a residential neighbourhood north of the Fraser River, which has long been a cultural and economic life source for Indigenous peoples,” explains Fast. “Located on the site of the former headwaters of Glenbrook Ravine, which was lost to development over the preceding decades, the project takes a strong stance toward reconciliation with the natural character of the landscape.”

The design prioritizes an east-to-west cardinal orientation over the colonial urban grid. The building sits along the natural topographic line of the former ravine, counter to the residential streets that surround it. The headwaters to the north have been reconnected with the remaining branch of the ravine to the south, establishing a major public green space and rain garden adjacent to the facility’s south plaza.

A Barrier-Free Gathering Space

Completed in May 2024 and delivered at a cost of $114 million, the project has since won national and global accolades, including a Prix Versailles 2024 World Title Special Prize for an Interior in the Sports category. The facility is the third Canadian project to earn the recognition since the prize was established in 2015.

Before completion, the facility was also recognized with a World Architecture Festival award for Civic Facilities (Future Projects) in 2021, and this past November, təməsew̓txʷ was awarded with a RHF Accessibility Certified Gold rating under the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification program.

A two-year community engagement process brought accessibility to the forefront, along with the flexibility to future-proof the building, which features a four-pool aquatic centre with sauna and steam rooms, universal washrooms and change rooms, a fitness centre, gymnasia, community rooms, licensed childcare, administrative offices, as well as new plazas and greenspaces.

The social lobby. Photo by Nic Lehoux.

According to Fast, inclusive design and physical accessibility were core aspects of the facility’s planning and detailing, with generous circulation space and additional handrails, high-contrast signage with braille and tactile directories, elevator access to level 2 programming and benches and accessible furnishings with backs and armrests.

Inside the fully universal washrooms are lift devices, with adult change tables in both wet and dry spaces.

For a more inclusive pool experience, the 50-metre lap pool features a moveable floor, which can be adjusted to different heights for people of all abilities, including those in wheelchairs. It rises from a 2.5-metre depth to a 0 depth in less than a minute.

Pool change rooms have options for all genders and dedicated male and female spaces. There are ramps and bench entries into leisure and family hot pools, with transfer ledge entry and lift access in the adult hot pool. A provision for blocking visual access to pool areas accommodates all-body, women-only, neurodiverse or cultural-sensitive swims.

Charting New Waters

The aquatic spaces aren’t just accessible. Reducing energy use was also top of mind. The community centre is the first to use a gravity-fed InBlue filtration system, which uses a drum filter system with lower water consumption and energy requirements, says Fast.

“Based on monthly usage since its opening, the filtration system alone is on track to reduce energy costs annually by over $100,000,” he says. “The biggest benefit from this system is the reduced levels of required chlorine, leading to much better water and air quality for swimmers. Initial results show that the system produces air and water quality far exceeding the standards set out by the Health Act.”

Overall, the centre is aiming for a 92 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the building it replaces. It also became Canada’s first completed all-electric facility to achieve the Canada Green Building Council’s (CAGBC) Zero Carbon Building-Design Standard, an ambitious feat that brought its own challenges.

“Pools are one of the most energy-intensive building types,” says Fast. “Pursuing the Zero Carbon Building Design Standard required new ways of thinking and new design strategies in order to address the stringent requirements of the certification.”

The south plaza and ravine space. Rendering by Miguel Orellana.

The firm worked with the CAGBC to share knowledge about the unique issues and energy needs of aquatic facilities.

“We collaborated to establish thresholds of performance that best reflect the energy demands of a natatorium, balanced with less energy intense spaces in the surrounding community centre,” says Fast. “Together with the CAGBC, we traced a path forward for similar energy-intensive projects to navigate and successfully achieve ZCB Standard requirements.”

Besides the gravity-fed pool filtration, pools separation for increased energy efficiency and an all-electric mechanical system for both heating and cooling, minimizing energy use was achieved through a range of other strategies, such as compact massing and form factor, a highly-efficient envelope, shading on the south, east and west facades, natural ventilation, abundant daylight and heat recovery ventilators. The building orientation and program overlay were also optimized for energy efficiency.

“On a tactical level, to successfully minimize energy use, the design strategy for təməsew̓txʷ applies a passive approach first, considering not only how the architecture can respond to specific site conditions for efficiency and comfort, but how operational conditions, strategies, and expectations inform the design,” explains Fast.

To ensure a low-impact result meant reducing demand first, then optimizing active systems.

“This means that insights from operators play an important role in the design process,” he further explains. “Pursuing certifications can seem abstract for those who are less familiar, but by ensuring involvement and making environmental performance feel more tangible in decision-making, we can all work together to achieve a high-performance result.

“There may be trade-offs, but rating systems like the Zero Carbon Building – Design Standard help to create a framework that can influence and inform sustainable design strategies.”

Feature photo: a view through the pool area to the south plaza ravine outdoor space. Photo by Nic Lehoux.

New Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus moves forward

The Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon campus project is moving forward with a request for qualifications (RFQ) to procure a new skilled trades and technology building. The addition will help attract top talent to position the province as a global research leader.

The Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement and Saskatchewan Polytechnic issued the RFQ, the first step in a two-step process to evaluate and pre-qualify professional service providers for the building.

Qualified teams from the RFQ process will compete in the second stage for the design and construction of the trades building—the first one planned as part of the new and consolidated campus in Saskatoon. The building will rise on a green field site, located at Innovation Place Saskatoon.

The new campus will transform an existing network of several decentralized, outdated buildings into a revitalized, modern, technology-rich learning environment for students and greater opportunities for applied research and investment.

“We have undertaken extensive consultation with faculty, students, the City of Saskatoon, and other key stakeholders, and we greatly appreciate everyone’s feedback,” said Saskatchewan Polytechnic President and CEO Dr. Larry Rosia. “This campus will lead the way in applied learning across Saskatchewan, enhancing the student experience and expanding our capacity for applied research and collaboration.”

Site preparation work began in September of 2024 and includes the removal or upgrading of underground infrastructure, tree relocation and grading. Site preparation is nearing completion, with substantial completion anticipated in the spring.

Office leasing makes national gains in 2024

Calgary and Edmonton experienced an uptick in office leasing activity in all four quarters last year and were contributors to 2.6 million square feet in positive absorption across Canada’s major markets. CBRE Canada’s newly released data for the fourth quarter of 2024 pegs the national office vacancy rate at 18.7 per cent at year-end with the downtown continuing to be looser than the suburbs in all markets except Toronto and Montreal. Meanwhile, the divide between trophy assets and Class B/C space has stretched to 1,470 basis points (bps).

Among the 10 markets CBRE analyzes, Vancouver continues to boast the lowest overall vacancy rate, at 11.2 per cent, and command the highest average Class A net rents, at $38.46 per square foot (psf). Nationally, the average Class A net rent sits at $25.74 psf, varying from $29.41 psf downtown to $20.25 in the suburbs.

At year end, eight of 10 markets were on the upside for office absorption, with just the smaller Ontario markets of London and Waterloo in negative status. However, negative absorption in Q4 also ate into overall pluses for Winnipeg, Toronto and Ottawa. Vancouver posted the largest uptick for the year, with 807,000 square feet of absorption. Elsewhere, the tally ranged from 493,000 square feet in Calgary to 144,000 square feet in Ottawa.

“This is the first year of positive net absorption for the office market since 2019,” CBRE analysts note. “While the last two quarters of 2024 were neutral to slightly negative in terms of net absorption, this slowed activity was unable to undo significant momentum from the first half of the year.”

The new construction pipeline steadily contracted over the course of 2024, ending the year with 3.4 million square feet of space still in progress for future completion. Nationally, 6.8 million square feet of new office space came onto the market last year, predominantly adding inventory in Toronto (2.7 million square feet), Vancouver (1.9 million square feet) and Montreal (1.6 million square feet). Toronto is also set to receive nearly 2.4 million square feet of office space still under construction.

Despite about 347,000 square feet of negative absorption in the fourth quarter, Toronto recorded positive absorption of 440,000 square feet for the full year. The market-wide average office vacancy rate rose to 19.7 per cent by year-end with the downtown Class A rate at 16.7 per cent. Average net rents for downtown Class A also moved up during Q4, reaching $35.46 psf.

Vancouver ended the year with an overall vacancy rate of 11.2 per cent, with downtown Class A office space at a tighter 9.4 per cent and commanding average net rents of $45.51 psf. Q4’s quotient of new supply — 218,350 square feet — was confined to the suburbs, where more than 550,000 square feet of office space is still under construction. Just 30,000 square feet is pending downtown.

Downtown Montreal registered 156,000 square feet of net office absorption for Q4, helping to pad the downtown tally to more than 1 million square feet of positive uptake for the year. That’s in contrast to more than 767,000 square feet of negative absorption in suburban markets over the course of 2024. At year-end, Montreal’s overall vacancy rate held steady at 19.5 per cent, with the downtown Class A vacancy rate at 14.1 per cent. Average Class A net rents downtown are pegged at $25.81 psf.

Calgary posted 338,000 square feet of office absorption for Q4 and 493,000 square feet for the year. Slightly more than 127,000 square feet of new office supply came onto the market in 2024 and about 71,000 is under construction — all in the suburbs, which outperforms the downtown office market. A suburban Class A vacancy rate of 19.5 per cent is 540 bps lower than for comparable downtown space. Meanwhile Class A suburban space commands average net rents of $20.17 psf versus $19.10 psf downtown.

About 3 bps of Calgary’s falling vacancy rate in Q4 is attributed to 342,000 square feet of inventory that was removed for conversion purposes. Across all office markets, about 2.4 million square feet of conversion activity was launched in 2024, but Calgary was alone in seeing activity during the fall months.

B.C. contractors report severe labour shortage

Amid a housing affordability crisis and growing economic uncertainty, 72 per cent of B.C. contractors are facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, according to the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association’s (ICBA) 2025 Wage and Benefits Survey.

The shortage is forcing businesses to delay or turn down projects and absorb rising costs, undermining B.C.’s ability to address its housing and infrastructure needs.

The annual survey also found 63 per cent of respondents said government is on the “wrong track” in dealing with a business like theirs – only 5 per cent answered that government is on the “right track.”

“When nearly two-thirds of businesses in a major job-creating sector say the government is on the wrong track, it’s time to listen,” said Chris Gardner, ICBA president and CEO. “Labour shortages remain a significant challenge facing construction, and government must get serious about fast-tracking training programs and aligning immigration policies with industry needs.”

Despite these challenges, demand in the construction sector remains strong. Nearly 50 per cent of contractors expect increased work volumes in 2025, with average anticipated growth reaching 19 per cent. Wages in construction also remain highly competitive, with the average hourly rate climbing to $37, equating to an annual base salary of $77,000 – without bonuses, benefits or overtime factored in.

“Our industry continues to deliver, despite worker shortages, regulatory burdens, and project delays. But B.C.’s construction sector could contribute so much more if government policies enabled us to thrive,” added Gardner. “Instead, contractors and businesses get more red tape, higher taxes, and a seemingly never-ending stream of anti-business rhetoric that have many saying it’s never been harder to start and build a business in B.C. than it is today.”

The ICBA survey underscores the urgent need for the provincial and federal governments to tackle skills shortages, streamline approvals, and prioritize policies that support housing and infrastructure development.

For more results from the survey, click HERE.

Overcoming common barriers to handwashing

Why is it still so important to talk about handwashing? The question is raised by the Global Handwashing Partnership, a global advocacy effort dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives.

Those of us in the cleaning industry know that handwashing is a fundamental defence against the spread of infections, illnesses, and harmful germs. Still, many are unaware that a significant portion of the population faces barriers to proper handwashing in public restrooms, both visible and invisible.

There are five common barriers to handwashing and steps facility leaders can take to make hygiene more inclusive in facility restrooms.

Age-related barriers

Each period of life comes with new strengths and challenges, and experiences in the restroom are no exception. For new parents or those with young kids, their experience going to a public restroom looks completely different, from a little one who needs a diaper change to convincing toddlers to endure the loud noise from the air dryer to properly dry their hands. Older adults may experience some physical limitations or conditions like arthritis that make tasks like pressing a soap dispenser more difficult.

Even though these examples are on different parts of life’s spectrum, they share the commonality of people facing challenges when washing their hands. But features like touchless soap and hand towel dispensers in restrooms can help these individuals by offering easier, faster, more accessible handwashing.

Auditory sensitivity

Have you ever been in a loud space – like a train station or live music venue – and been overwhelmed by the noise? For some, including people who are neurodivergent, public restrooms can feel the same way, and the culprit is noisy hand dryers, which are almost a constant sound in busy restrooms.

For this reason, paper hand towels are the more inclusive offering. Not only do they eliminate frequent and loud noise in public restrooms, but they are the more hygienic choice (compared to paper towels, jet air dryers produce more airborne droplets,[1] increasing the risk of bacteria spread). They also support many uses besides drying hands like blowing noses, wiping mouths, and helping people avoid touching high-touch surfaces like door handles.

Hygiene concerns

For some people with OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), fears or phobias of bacteria can make being in public spaces challenging and stressful. Recent research from Tork found that of the general population, 73 per cent feel unsafe if they cannot wash their hands, but that figure increases to 86 per cent of people with a fear or phobia of bacteria and viruses.[2]

To best accommodate these individuals, a focus on frequent, thorough cleaning of restrooms is essential. Displaying a cleaning log in the restroom can help these individuals feel safer using your restrooms.

Skin sensitivities

Skin conditions such as eczema (atopic dermatitis), which up to 17 per cent of Canadians will suffer from at some point in their lives,[3] are often made worse by harsh, irritating hand soaps. As a result, these individuals may avoid washing their hands in public restrooms. It’s simple for facilities to switch to gentler soaps that are kind to the skin and dermatologically tested.

Lack of privacy

Public restrooms will never be as private and comfortable as being at home. But for some, going to the bathroom in public is highly stressful. Paruresis, also known as Shy Bladder Syndrome, is a social anxiety disorder that makes it difficult or impossible to urinate in the presence of others. The condition affects seven per cent of the population and about two million Canadians.[4] By avoiding using the restroom, these individuals also miss chances to wash their hands and practice proper hygiene, so it’s critical for leaders to make restrooms as private and comfortable as possible to accommodate a variety of needs.

Handwashing and business performance go hand-in-hand

No matter the circumstance, there is a universal truth: if people don’t feel comfortable using a public restroom and don’t have access to proper handwashing, they will make significant changes to their daily routine. In effect, they are more likely to skip food purchases (38 per cent avoid eating and drinking to avoid having to visit a public restroom⁵) and even avoid visiting business establishments altogether (26 per cent avoid social events because they have concerns about access to restrooms[5]). Infrequent or improper handwashing has consequences for employers as well; if employees don’t feel comfortable in facility restrooms or face barriers to hand hygiene, they are more likely to become ill and potentially be absent from work. By prioritizing inclusive hygiene in public and facility restrooms, leaders can affect change and make it possible for everyone to practice proper handwashing.

Katrin “Kat” Ferge is the North American Regional Marketing Manager for Professional Hygiene – Commercial segment at Essity. In her role, she is focused on Essity’s professional hygiene brand Tork and helping businesses including office buildings, recreational facilities, passenger terminals and educational institutions leverage better hygiene for better business performance. She has more than 15 years of experience in brand communications and marketing.

Sources

[1] Margas E. et al, J Applied Microbiol, 2013.

[2] Tork Insight Survey 2024, conducted in US, UK, Germany, France and Mexico among 6000 end-users and 900 businesses. N Global = 6000; N people with bacteria fear/phobia=415.

[3] Canadian Dermatology Association.

[4] International Paruresis Association.

[5] Tork Insight Survey 2024.

Net-zero targets could face integrity test

Companies operating in Canada now run the risk of running afoul of the Competition Act if they publicize plans to reduce or achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions without properly mapping out how they will reach those targets. Marketers of products or services that purport to protect or restore the environment or mitigate the effects of climate change could be in similar hot water if they can’t produce adequate evidence to back their claims.

New legislative provisions that came into force in June 2024 expand the Competition Bureau’s authority to investigate and pursue judgements against two additional types of deceptive marketing practices. False or misleading statements and unrealistic claims of product performance continue to be faux pas, but now the verifiability of claims that products or business activities have environmental benefits will also be under scrutiny.

Recently released draft guidelines outline how the Competition Bureau proposes to interpret these new responsibilities. Public feedback is welcomed until Feb. 28, 2025 and will be considered before the guidelines are finalized. The Act’s new provisions have not yet been tested in the Courts, but it’s expected that future legal decisions will also influence how the Bureau approaches investigations.

“The proposed guidelines aim to help businesses assess whether their environmental claims comply with the provisions of the Competition Act,” the Competition Bureau stated as it launched the consultation late last month. “The guidelines do not prescribe when or how businesses can make environmental claims. Companies are free to make environmental claims, as long as they are not false or misleading, and have been adequately and properly tested or substantiated as required.”

Substantiation — meaning proof or competent evidence — will be key for demonstrating the integrity of claims related to emissions reduction. The guidelines advise businesses to have a “clear plan” before such intentions are announced publicly or incorporated into marketing material.

That includes: an understanding of the baseline emissions; a “concrete, realistic and verifiable” strategy for achieving reductions that incorporates interim targets; and evidence that “meaningful steps” have been undertaken to accomplish the plan. This is also expected to align with an “internationally recognized methodology” that is recognized in at least two countries and deemed to be appropriate for a Canadian context.

Under the new provision related to claims that a product can protect or restore the environment or mitigate climate change effects, the Bureau will look for “adequate and proper testing” — similar to guidelines already in place for claims about product performance in general. The proposed guidelines also highlight some high-level principles meant to keep companies in line with acceptable marketing practices, including tips for avoiding exaggeration and vagueness and making appropriate comparisons.

On June 20, 2025, another new Competition Act provision will come into force, giving private individuals and entities leeway to challenge what they perceive to be deceptive marketing practices. That will occur through a direct petition to the Competition Tribunal, sidestepping the Competition Bureau’s preliminary investigatory stage.

However, it’s suggested that the Tribunal may consider the Bureau’s guidelines as it makes decisions about granting leave to private individuals and entities. As well, the Competition Bureau would have the right to intervene in any privately triggered case. Further guidance on private cases is promised for this year.

GWLRA plans False Creek mixed-use development

GWL Realty Advisors (GWLRA) is proposing a mixed-use development including secured market rental, below-market rental and furnished rental, as well as office space and retail amenities at 1220 Station Street in Vancouver.

The site is one block from the new St. Paul’s Hospital and is adjacent to the Main Street-Science World SkyTrain Station, which is the main public transit node for the city’s new healthcare district. To facilitate this proposal, GWLRA has submitted a rezoning application to the City of Vancouver.

“Our proposal supports the area’s future hospital community by providing much-needed rental accommodation for those who will work at or visit the hospital, as well as medical office space and retail services. The vision is to complement St. Paul’s and its diverse population and needs,” said Geoff Heu, vice president, development, GWLRA.

The proposed development includes two towers of up to 28 storeys above a commercial podium that can accommodate a grocery store, as well as office space for medical or lab uses. The project will include approximately 400 rental homes, ranging from studios to four-bedroom units. The 1220 Station Street site is bound by Terminal Avenue to the south and Pacific Central Station to the north.

“Located immediately adjacent to the Main Street-Science World SkyTrain Station, this project will offer a tremendous opportunity to support the emerging healthcare district with several complementary uses, and it will play an important role in the revitalization of the area. We look forward to working with the City of Vancouver to bring this forward,” said Heu.

To fulfil this vision and deliver on the city and the province’s goals for increased density around SkyTrain stations, GWLRA has requested rezoning of the property from its current office-use designation to mixed-use.

Surrey approves rec centre demolition contract

Surrey Council has approved a $1.2M contract for the demolition of the former North Surrey Recreation Centre. This is a significant step in the development of the much-anticipated Centre Block that includes two high-rise commercial office towers, ground-level retail units, and a vibrant public plaza in the heart of the downtown City Centre.

“Centre Block is more than just a redevelopment project. It will be the catalyst for economic growth, innovation and community engagement in our ever-expanding City Centre,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “Centre Block will be a vibrant, accessible, and modern urban centre near rapid transit and major transportation routes. It is also a natural extension of the considerable civic investment in the area as reflected in the new City Hall, Library and Civic Plaza and will progress Surrey’s long-term economic interests through advancing a downtown business district.”

Led by Surrey City Development Corporation (SCDC), the project is poised to be a groundbreaking office and institutional complex adjacent to one of the region’s most intensively used transit hubs.

“The demolition of the old North Surrey Recreation Centre will mark the start of a new era for our downtown core,” Locke added. “The redevelopment of the site will set the foundation for the transformative Centre Block project. This milestone project will not only enhance the downtown landscape with new office space and retail options but also foster a sense of community through the public plaza. Centre Block will be instrumental in the continued evolution of Surrey’s City Centre into the region’s second downtown core.”

The former North Surrey Recreation Centre, located at 10275 City Parkway, will undergo phased demolition beginning in early 2025, with an expected completion date of summer 2025. Given the site’s proximity to the SkyTrain line and the Surrey Central bus loop, Arena 1 on the north side of the building will be demolished first, and Arena 2 and Pool will follow. The project will prioritize safety and environmental compliance, including the careful removal of hazardous materials. Traffic control measures and strategic scheduling will be implemented to reduce inconvenience and disruption.

UHN plans cancer care expansion at new property

University Health Network acquired a 15-storey property in Toronto to expand programs in cancer care, research and education at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Toronto General Hospital.

The building, located at 522 University Avenue in the city’s Discovery District. will also serve as another training ground for health care learners from UHN’s Michener Institute of Education and partner academic institutions.

“The demand for cancer diagnosis and treatment continues to surge here in Canada and around the world,” said Dr. Kevin Smith, UHN’s president and CEO. “At UHN’s Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, we serve close to 19,000 new patients every year and this number is growing.”

Possible services at the new building may include enhanced supportive care, including in cancer mental health, an Early Cancer Detection program with increased focus on cancer prevention and the molecular diagnosis and treatment of cancer, a new Prostate Cancer Centre to ensure optimal care for the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, and a centralized Cancer Digital Intelligence team to optimize care through advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence.

“By strategically relocating specific teams and creating new programs, we will be positioned to manage the significant growth in cancer diagnosis and cancer curability in the decades to come,” said Dr. Keith Stewart, vice president of clinical services and director of Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.

6 things you need to know about gas absorption heat pumps

Similar to electric heat pumps, gas heat pumps capture heat from the outdoor ambient air and transfer it indoors for space and water heating. By transferring heat, a gas heat pump creates more than one unit of heat for every unit of energy it uses, giving gas heat pumps the ability to operate on average at more than 100 per cent efficiency.¹

In 2022 we launched our commercial gas absorption heat pump rebate program—the first of its kind in Canada. Our rebate covers up to 75 per cent of the total project costs, up to $200,000, for installing eligible gas absorption heat pumps in commercial, multi-unit residential or institutional buildings.

Tried and tested technology

We’ve tested the performance of gas absorption heat pumps in commercial buildings across B.C. in a pilot program, and we’re currently testing this technology in residential homes. We surveyed past pilot participants and found out what these early adopters wish they knew sooner. Cameron Lee, a FortisBC conservation and energy management program specialist who’s focused on helping commercial and industrial customers save energy, explains some of the survey’s key findings and other learnings from the commercial gas absorption heat pump pilot.

1. Gas absorption heat pumps can maintain a comfortable space on the coldest days.
“The units are designed to operate efficiently in colder climates,” says Cameron. “They can continue to operate when temperatures drop below -40 °C, making them a great option on the coldest days, even for customers in the Southern Interior and Northern B.C.”

2. Gas absorption heat pumps can be used in a variety of applications and buildings.
Energy managers and consultants who were surveyed noted this technology is suitable for a wide range of commercial, multi-unit residential and institutional buildings, from office buildings, hotels and schools to hospitals, recreation centres, care homes and more. “The pilot demonstrated the versatility of these units, after being tested in a variety of settings,” Cameron said.

Gas absorption heat pumps can function as:
• a space heating and/or hot water system
• ventilation
• a supplementary system that can be added to improve the efficiency of existing systems

3. Gas absorption heat pumps allow customers to choose their preferred energy source.
Some customers who participated in the pilot explained that using a mix of energy sources in their operations was important for resiliency and energy security.
This technology provides an energy-efficient option to help reduce energy use, operating costs and associated GHG emissions in situations where the gas system is a customer’s preferred or most feasible energy for space and water heating.

4. Gas absorption heat pumps can reduce GHG emissions² with fewer upgrades.
For some of our pilot participants, switching to electricity for their space or water heating isn’t an option, as there isn’t currently the capacity to accommodate it for their building or area. For others, the cost of the building upgrades needed to switch energy sources is prohibitive.

“Gas absorption heat pumps use the gas equipment that’s already available in a building, like ductwork and piping,” Cameron says. “For this reason, installing one of these high-efficiency units can be a straightforward and cost-effective option.”

5. Gas absorption heat pumps allow customers to further reduce emissions with Renewable Natural Gas.³
While some customers were more motivated by the potential cost-savings of gas absorption heat pumps, others are seeking to reduce their energy use and GHG emissions to meet targets. These units provide an opportunity for customers to designate up to 100 per cent of their energy as Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) to help lower overall emissions further.

6. Gas absorption heat pumps have actually been around for a while.
“Many customers are initially unsure about gas absorption heat pumps because of how new they are to the North American market,” Cameron says. “However, this technology has been around for the past two decades in Europe, and for the past five or so years in Asia.”

Feasibility study funding available
Curious if gas absorption heat pumps are right for your building? We offer up to $20,000 in feasibility study funding for eligible customers. Terms and conditions apply and are subject to change. Visit our website to learn more and contact your FortisBC energy solutions manager or key account manager—they can answer your questions and assist with your application.

fortisbc.com/commercialheatpump

Footnotes:

1.Coefficient of performance (COP) and gas usage efficiency (GUE) results of more than 1.0 were achieved in a Robur A gas absorption heat pump system with dynamic controls, as recorded by Building Energy Solutions (BES) Ltd. in its measurement and verification report for the gas absorption heat pump pilot, phase three and four, September 9, 2021.

2.When compared to standard-efficiency, 80 per cent annual fuel utilization efficiency, gas furnaces and boilers.

3.Renewable Natural Gas (also called RNG or biomethane) is produced in a different manner than conventional natural gas. It is derived from biogas, which is produced from decomposing organic waste from landfills, agricultural waste and wastewater from treatment facilities. The biogas is captured and cleaned to create RNG. When RNG is added to North America’s natural gas system, it mixes with conventional natural gas. This means we’re unable to direct RNG to a specific customer. But the more RNG is added to the gas system, the less conventional natural gas is needed, thereby reducing the use of fossil fuels and overall greenhouse gas emissions.

Trudeau’s resignation marks end of an era

Justin Trudeau has resigned as the leader of the Liberal Party after nearly a decade of serving as Canada’s prime minister. The announcement comes after weeks of mounting pressure for him to step aside ahead of the next federal election in an attempt by the Liberal Party to more effectively compete against Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives.

“I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process,” Trudeau said during Monday’s news conference. “Last night, I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process. This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I am having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election.”

Trudeau has faced increased scrutiny since mid-December when former finance minister Chrystia Freeland resigned from her post, citing Trudeau’s “political gimmicks” amid Donald Trump’s tariff threats as the driving reason for her decision to step down. More calls for Trudeau to resign quickly followed, with MPs from all parties urging him to “do what’s best for the country.”

As per Trudeau’s announcement, all parliamentary activities will be prorogued until March 24 as the Liberals seek to elect a new leader—a move some are criticizing given Donald Trump is just days away from being sworn in. While the broader implications for the economy are still unknown, economists and business leaders have expressed concerns about what Trudeau’s resignation and resulting political instability could mean for the financial markets, including real estate investments, given some businesses may choose to delay activity in favour of taking a “wait-and-see” approach.

Regardless, according to Candace Laing, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the move marks “a turning point” as Canada tackles unprecedented domestic and international challenges.

“Prime Minister Justin Trudeau read the room and made the right call by announcing his resignation today,” Laing said in a statement. “Canada can’t afford inaction with so much at stake. Unity is key: political leaders, businesses, and communities must come together around our common opportunities. Canada’s next Prime Minister must hit the ground running and be laser-focused on strengthening the Canada-U.S. trade relationship.”

Looking back: housing measures that helped

Since 2015, the Trudeau government introduced several housing-related measures to address affordability and homelessness in Canada, many of which were deemed successful, and others less so. Arguably, the Enhanced GST Rental Rebate program, introduced in 2023 to support the construction of apartment buildings, student housing, and seniors’ residences, continues to have the most impact for the apartment sector. Since its inception, the rebate has directly contributed to several new rental projects seeing the light of day, including major developments from Greenwin, Medallion Corporation, and Dream Unlimited to name a few.

“This legislation is a game-changer for the development industry, and more importantly for Canadians,” said Michael J. Cooper, President and Chief Responsible Officer, Dream Unlimited, when the exemptions were introduced. “The housing crisis has impacted every urban centre from coast to coast. What this legislation unlocks is our ability to get shovels into the ground quickly at a time when it’s never been more critical to build new homes.”

Other notable housing policies under Trudeau’s Liberals:

National Housing Strategy: A ten-year plan to invest over $72 billion to build supply, make housing more affordable, and address chronic homelessness.
Canada Housing Benefit: Agreements with provinces and territories to provide $4 billion in cost-matched funding, helping over 300,000 Canadians pay rent.
Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF): An initiative introduced in the 2022 to boost housing supply by providing incentive funding to local governments.
Rapid Housing Initiative: A $2.5 billion investment to create at least 9,200 new units of affordable housing across Canada.
Apartment Construction Loan Program: Low-cost loans encouraging the construction of sustainable rental apartment projects across Canada.
Federal Lands Initiative: Surplus federal lands and buildings used to create affordable, sustainable, accessible and socially inclusive developments.
First-Time Home Buyers’ Incentive: A shared equity mortgage program to help eligible first-time home buyers finance a portion of their home purchase.
Vacant Property Tax: A national tax on vacant property owned by non-resident, non-Canadians, introduced in 2022.
Distinctions-Based Housing Strategies: Over $1.7 billion committed for housing strategies for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities

For more on the federal government’s housing policies and initiatives, visit: Canada’s National Housing Strategy | CMHC

U.S. loses pioneering energy efficiency champion

Former United States President Jimmy Carter is remembered as an early and influential champion of energy efficiency. Taking office at a time when conservation was peripheral to the public consciousness, he established the federal Department of Energy (DOE) as a stand-alone entity and spearheaded introduction of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act, an initiative with bipartisan support that led to product performance standards and the involvement of utilities in energy management programs.

“In the 1970s, energy efficiency, itself, was an emerging concept, and researchers were just starting to focus intensively on policy and program mechanisms for improving efficiency in existing homes and buildings,” recalls Steven Nadel, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). “His administration created policies and research initiatives that were the foundation for decades of progress in using energy more efficiently.”

An ACEEE tribute, following Carter’s death on Dec. 29, underscores the DOE’s key role in more than five decades of research and development, beginning with its pioneering efforts to improve the performance of windows. As well, Carter’s energy conservation legislation was instrumental in the rollout and eventual widescale uptake of energy audits in the commercial/institutional and residential sectors. He was also a role model for conservationist behaviour, urging his countrymen to turn down the thermostat, add a sweater and adopt more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Other aspects of Carter’s efforts to reduce American reliance on oil and gas, which he characterized as “the moral equivalent of war”, come with some incongruities from the perspective of the 2020s. In addition to deregulating oil and gas prices and attempting (unsuccessfully) to prohibit new gas-fired power plants, he introduced incentives for both renewable energy and coal.

“He was not responding to a recognized environmental issue, as we see it and need to address today, but, even then, he was calling for increased efficiency to go along with renewables and other supply,” observes longtime energy consultant, Peter Love, who served as Ontario’s chief conservation officer from 2005 to 2009. “His lasting legacy includes the creation of the U.S. Department of Energy and his call on Americans to conserve energy.”

Brendan Haley, senior policy director with Efficiency Canada, a research and public advocacy organization that promotes the dual economic and environmental benefits of energy and water efficiency, credits Carter for expanding the U.S. Weatherization Assistance Program, which had been instituted by his immediate predecessor, President Gerald Ford. Nearly 50 years later, the program continues to provide support and services to help low-income households make improvements that lead to savings on their electricity and heating costs.

Canada has thus far lacked an equivalent program and political uncertainty now colours the pending rollout of the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program, which was first promised in the 2024 federal budget. “Hopefully, helping low-income homeowners and tenants save money through energy efficiency is supported across political parties, like it has been in the U.S. for decades,” Haley says.

Squamish selects housing design winners

The District of Squamish announced the winners of its Multiplex Design Competition. The competition was launched on September 5, 2024, to help increase the supply of small-scale housing options in Squamish as part of the Squamish Housing Action Plan, funded by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Housing Accelerator Fund.

“This competition showcases options for property owners who want to take advantage of the new provincial legislation and add important new housing forms that will contribute to the housing supply we need as a community,” said District of Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford. “All submissions have shown a level of thoughtfulness and creativity for each of our unique neighbourhoods, and we are grateful to everyone who took part in the design competition.”

A total of 16 submissions were received with the winning designs selected by members of the District of Squamish Advisory Design Panel who sought to recognize dwelling units that incorporate creativity, sustainability, affordability, and appeal across three design categories – Second Storey Dwellings, Elevated Dwellings, and Ground Level Dwellings.

District of Squamish Multiplex Design Competition Winners:

Category 1: Second Storey Dwellings

1^st Place:
Higher Ground
Haeccity Studio Architecture

2^nd Place:
The Alcove
Paula Alejandro Vazquez, TAG Panels Ltd.

3rd Place:
Umbel
Sideyard Architecture

Category 2: Elevated Dwellings

1st Place:
The Tusk
Brendan Callander, Callander Architecture

2^nd Place:
Double Double
Haeccity Studio Architecture

3^rd Place:
Encore
Guy McLintock, McLintock Architecture

Category 3: Ground Level Dwellings

1st Place:
C Plex
Haeccity Studio Architecture

2nd Place:
The Tusk
Brendan Callander, Callander Architecture

3rd Place:
Blended
Paula Alejandro Vazquez, TAG Panels Ltd.

ISSA Show North America announces Innovative Leaders Award winners

ISSA Show North America, the largest and most comprehensive event dedicated to the worldwide industrial, commercial, and residential cleaning and facilities industries, unveils the winners of the coveted Innovative Leaders Award Program and highlights the latest new products and solutions revolutionizing the global cleaning sector.

Judged by a panel of industry leaders, including representatives from key councils, committees, and organizations across the sector, as well as an industry editor and a buying group representative, the group selects one winner in each category and two honorees. The winners of this year’s awards represent groundbreaking achievements across the industry.

Automation and Equipment of the Year: Nilfisk’s SC25 Autonomous Scrubber took the top honour. Additional honourees include Robovox Distributions GmbH for its ZACO X1000 Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Sparkoz Technology Corporation for the TN10 Cleaning System.

Business Technology and Digital Services of the Year: Otuvy, Inc. received the award for its Otuvy operational software. Honourees in this category include CleanSmart Academy’s Animated Training Kit and Janitorial Manager’s cleaning management system.

Facility Solution Care Products Innovation of the Year: Airbotx was awarded for its Airbotx 390X Air Cleaner. Honourees include Diamabrush’s Cylindrical Polishing Tools and CLR PRO MAX™ for its Industrial Descaler. Pine-Sol also received a nomination in this category.

Hygiene Solution Innovation of the Year: OPHARDT Hygiene’s PRAESIDIO® Fuel Cell earned the award, and honourees include GP PRO for the enMotion® Paper Towel Dispensers with ECON Mode and Remco: A Vikan Company’s HyGo Mobile Cleaning Station.

Environment and Sustainability Innovation of the Year: CloroxPro’s EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes took the award, with honourees including ABCO Products Inc. for its DSOLV dissolvable non-plastic bags and ONYX Solutions for the SXi Lithium-Ion Battery Floor Machine.

Participating exhibitors showcase products and technologies that have made an impact in the commercial, institutional, and residential cleaning community by addressing key challenges that industry professionals aim to solve in daily operations while protecting and prioritizing the health of occupants.

“The Innovation Showcase exemplifies the ingenuity and passion that defines the industry,” shares Ed Nichols, Show Director of ISSA Show North America. “Each new idea is crafted to drive business growth as well as to deliver solutions that positively impact billions of lives around the world. The commitment to safety, sustainability and precision is evident in every product showcased.”

Through education, product demonstrations and opportunities for engagement year-round, ISSA Show North America drives global public health and safety, providing indispensable resources for distributors, building service contractors, facility services and other verticals within the global sector.

For more information on the Innovative Leaders Award Program and to view the full list of participants, please visit www.issashow.com. For a list of last year’s winners, please visit this link.

Federal funding to boost building codes in P.E.I.

The federal government is giving $2.4 million to Prince Edward Island so the province can adopt higher performance tiers of the 2020 national model energy codes. The funding will provide building industry professionals with tools and training to ensure compliance with provincial building codes as P.E.I. adopts increasingly energy-efficient performance tiers.

The investment comes from the Codes Acceleration Fund, which was announced in 2023, to help meet Canada’s goal of net-zero emissions and climate-resilient buildings sector by 2050.

“The Codes Acceleration Fund will help the Island construction industry better prepare for advances in building design and construction methods,” said Gilles Arsenault, minister of environment, energy and climate action. “We will be utilizing the Codes Acceleration Fund to embark on a feasibility study to identify barriers and challenges to adopting higher performance tiers and hire additional building officials to provide training for staff and industry professionals on the changes to construction codes.”

Canadian households spend an average of $2,200 a year on home energy costs. Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, said the investment will support the adoption of stronger building codes in all types of buildings and help deliver more affordable energy.

In turn, the investment will also cut emissions. Canada’s residential buildings account for 47 per cent of buildings sector emissions in the country, while buildings, overall, are the third largest emitter of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with more than 96 percent of emissions coming from space and water heating.

A second call for funding proposals for the Codes Acceleration Fund is open until January 10, 2025, through which applicants may submit their projects for consideration.

The Bakerfield II opens in Newmarket

The Rose Corporation announced it has officially opened The Bakerfield II, marking the end of the fourth phase of its 834-unit master-planned residential community in Newmarket, Ontario.

“The opening of The Bakerfield II is a milestone for The Rose Corporation,” said Daniel Berholz, President in December 2024. “Newmarket, like other communities and urban centres across Ontario, is facing a very real housing crisis, marked by a shortage of rental housing. Our ability to deliver new purpose-built rental projects that offer an elevated living experience will, we believe, fill a void in the local market.”

The 10-storey building on Deerfield Road offers 175 rental suites in a variety of layouts, from one bedrooms to three bedrooms plus den. Featuring the latest modern finishes and smart tech, residents will enjoy highspeed internet and Salto keyless suite entry among other perks. Amenities on the property include a golf simulator, yoga studio, co-working spaces, an expansive outdoor terrace with BBQs, dining space, a screening room, an indoor children’s play zone, a pet spa, car wash, automated parcel lockers, electric vehicle charging stations and more.

The Bakerfield II is The Rose Corporation’s third purpose-built rental building completed in the 6.8-acre, master-planned community since 2015; this includes a 15-storey condominium tower that also opened in 2024. The new residential community is centrally located near boutique shops, restaurants, galleries and local services along Newmarket’s Main Street. Convenient transportation options are easily accessible to residents including the VIVA Rapidway route, Newmarket GO station, Highways 404 and 400, along with bicycle paths and walking trails.

For more info, visit: The Rose Corporation

Tried and tested technology

Footnotes:

IDS Vancouver

Our Latest Issue