Calgary’s $6B Green Line LRT SE breaks ground

After more than a decade of planning, the City of Calgary celebrated a major milestone for public transit with the official groundbreaking for the SE Segment and kick-off for Phase 1 of the Green Line Light Rail Transit (LRT).

The Green Line LRT is Calgary’s largest-ever infrastructure investment, with $6.248 billion in funding from The City of Calgary, Government of Alberta, and Government of Canada.

“This is a tangible step towards making public transit a more accessible, reliable, efficient, and desirable option for Calgarians. We will continue working with our partners to make life easier and more convenient for Calgarians and to make Calgary and Alberta’s economy stronger,” said Minister of Transport and Internal Trade Chrystia Freeland.

The SE Segment, from Shepard in the southeast to the Event Centre/Grand Central Station in the Beltline, will build the first 16 kilometres of an overall 46-kilometre vision, before connecting with the future Downtown Segment and into the existing Red and Blue LRT Lines. Including the Downtown Segment, Phase 1 will build, 17.2 kilometres of twin-track LRT infrastructure, 12 new stations, a maintenance and storage facility, three Park and Ride lots, and 28 new modern low-floor light rail vehicles.

“The Green Line LRT is a generational investment that will create thousands of jobs, unlock new opportunities for housing and development, and shape Calgary’s growth for decades. This is how we build a resilient economy and a city that works for everyone. Calgarians have waited a long time for this moment, and today we deliver on our commitment,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek.

BCFSA welcomes new board members

The BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) welcomed four new board members on June 30. They include Chris Elgar, Lisa Dorian, Tina Meadows, and Lyle Viereck, who all have extensive experience in the financial sector.

Elgar is the former senior vice president of supervision at BCFSA, who retired in 2024. He has more than 40 years of business and regulatory experience in risk management, treasury and financial/capital management, capital markets, credit and commercial banking, strategic planning, regulatory compliance, recovery and resolution development and governance.

Dorian is a corporate finance instructor at University Canada West and runs a business providing workshops in financial and credit acumen to commercial credit teams. Dorian is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a Master of Studies in Law (corporate compliance).

Meadows has experience in labour relations, governance, financial oversight, strategic planning, policy development and board leadership. As senior director of Bargaining and Services at UFCW Local 1518, Tina provided strategic leadership in contract negotiations, grievance management, and labour policy advocacy.

Viereck runs his own consulting company, providing strategic planning for companies and First Nations, negotiations and development of corporate and First Nations mandates, community engagement, consultation and reconciliation services. Lyle has experience in public sector, renewable energy, transportation and First Nation communities throughout British Columbia.

They all replace four outgoing board members, who include Dr. Stanley Hamilton, Wilma van Norden, Gerald Matier and Jo-Ann Hannah.

The BCFSA is responsible for the licensing, education and discipline of licensees, including strata property managers and strata management companies under the authority of the Real Estate Services Act.

New guide offers roadmap to build climate resilience

As climate change intensifies across Canada, a new report released by the Canada Climate Law Initiative (CCLI) and the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is calling on the construction sector to embed climate resilience into their core governance. Building resilience: A guide to climate governance for Canada’s construction sector provides a practical roadmap to help industry leaders address growing climate risks across the entire construction value chain.

With nearly 30 per cent of the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions linked to construction, companies within Canada’s construction industry can play a significant role in addressing climate change and creating more sustainable and resilient communities.

“The construction and buildings sector holds enormous potential to drive positive change,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, CCA president. “Through effective governance, leadership, and collaboration across the value chain, the sector can play a pivotal role in creating more sustainable, climate-resilient communities. From project financing and design through to construction, maintenance, and renovations, each actor plays a critical role.”

While construction has always faced environmental challenges, climate change introduces more severe risks—like heatwaves, wildfires, and flooding—that disrupt projects and endanger communities. The guide calls for long-term, governance-driven strategies to build resilience.

Key messages from the report include:

Directors and senior leadership are central to climate action. They hold significant power to ensure that climate risks and opportunities are properly considered in business decisions.

Climate action is a competitive advantage. By adopting long-term strategies around mitigation and adaptation, companies can lead in a changing marketplace, enhance business resilience, and meet evolving client expectations.

A systems-level coordinated approach is essential. Projects involve many players at different stages in the life cycle—from project inception and financing to maintenance and renovations. Building climate resilience requires cross-sector coordination, continuity, and shared accountability.

“Climate governance is a strategic imperative for Canadian construction companies to build sustainable and resilient businesses and communities for the future,” said Jacqueline Fitzpatrick, author of the guide and CCLI affiliated research scholar.

The report offers actionable guidance tailored for construction companies of all sizes. It includes legal context, risk assessment frameworks, and tools to help boards and management teams embed climate governance into their core operations.

U-Bahn Condos breaks ground near Laval metro station

The Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ is partnering with Urbania on U-Bahn Condos. The transit-oriented development is inspired by Berlin’s subway stations and refers to its proximity to the Montmorency metro station in downtown Laval.

The developers have been working to develop this site for several years now.

“The launch of this condominium project is a novel response to the housing shortage in Québec,” said Martin Raymond, president and CEO of the Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ. “In light of the current market conditions, people are looking to buy. In fact, among our first clients, we have a majority of young people eager to make their first real estate purchase, as well as couples and retirees.”

U-Bahn consists of 221 units across 15 floors and range from two-bedrooms to studios. A 130,000-square-foot private park, reserved for co-owners, will be developed in the inner courtyard.

Common areas will enhance the occupant experience: a bright, lounge-style lobby; co-working space on the 16th floor; a rooftop terrace with views; and a gym.

All units have a balcony and include a parking space and optional integrated office space. There are three levels of parking, with an option to install EV-charging stations

Stéphane Brault, president of Urbania, said the building is one of the few condo projects currently underway in Laval. “We designed this project to meet the needs of a diverse clientele,” he said during the groundbreaking. “Its common areas, green spaces, unit layout and downtown location are among the features that attract buyers.”

Photo by Louis-Étienne Doré. Fom left to right: Stéphane Brault, President of Urbania, Martin Raymond, President and CEO of Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ, Catherine Venne, Vice-President of Urbania, and Sébastien Lessard, Partner of Urbania.

CAO partners with TMU on reserve fund report

The Condominium Authority of Ontario (CAO) is partnering with the Urban Analytics Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Ted Rogers School of Management on research into the state of reserve funds,

This will be a follow-up to a report the CAO released in 2023. That first-of-its-kind study on reserve funds was based on survey responses from about 700 condo corporations and 6,000 owners, as well as from ongoing feedback from advisory panels.

Findings from that report identified a need for ongoing research and understanding how condos are managing these important funds.

New research will be shared in 2026.

New awards target emissions-cutting improvement

The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Canada has launched a new awards program to recognize year-over-year improvement in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Enspire Awards are affiliated with BOMA’s similarly named retrofit accelerator program, which targets Class B and C buildings for resources and mentoring, and will be presented for the first time this September at BOMA Canada’s annual BOMEX conference in Halifax.

“The BOMA Enspire Awards honour dedicated teams and industry leaders in commercial real estate who are taking action to optimize building performance and reduce carbon emissions,” says BOMA Canada’s president and chief executive officer, Benjamin Shinewald. “We will celebrate the early adopters and the achievements of those who have embraced strategies to drive transformative building operations.”

To qualify, buildings must be enrolled in the Enspire program or another BOMA-related sustainability efforts, such as BOMA Toronto’s CREST program, and make 2023 and 2024 data available through ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager. Awards will be conveyed in up to 16 categories, based on building function and size, for the greatest year-over-year reduction in energy use and emissions.

All buildings enrolled in the Enspire program and making the necessary comparable data available by July 31, 2025, will be eligible.

Homestead acquires Burlington apartment complex

Kingston-based Homestead Land Holdings has acquired The Diplomats, a two-tower apartment complex in Burlington, Ontario, from GWL Realty Advisors as part of its strategy to reinvest capital into new developments. The waterfront property spans 5.67 acres along Lake Ontario and features 203 rental units across two 10-storey buildings at 5166 and 5170 Lakeshore Road.

The 55-year-old buildings offers spacious layouts, with an average unit size of 1,056 square feet, At the time of sale, 97 per cent of the units were occupied. The site includes 294 parking stalls and offers infill zoning potential for additional residential development.

Homestead manages a portfolio of more than 26,000 units in Kingston, Toronto, Ottawa, London, Hamilton, Guelph, Kitchener, Sarnia, Oakville, Mississauga, Etobicoke, Brantford, Burlington, St. Catharines, Cambridge, Thornhill, and Calgary

The sale follows GWLRA’s recent dispositions in Edmonton, including Panorama Court, Signature Place, and Concord Tower.

Canada announces $1.7M to advance housing research

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Canada will provide $1.7 million in financial support through the National Housing Strategy Research and Planning Fund for 15 new planning, research, and knowledge mobilization initiatives. Spanning British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, the selected initiatives aim to fill critical knowledge gaps and improve housing outcomes for Canada’s most vulnerable populations.

The housing research fund targets key NHS priorities, focusing on groups including seniors, women and children, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, individuals experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, and young adults. By supporting these diverse efforts, CMHC hopes to deepen the sector’s understanding of housing needs and help build lasting research capacity in affordable housing.

The selected projects reflect a wide array of pressing issues in Canada’s rental and community housing landscape. Highlights include housing research on zoning regulations and their impact on housing supply (ON), a new housing model for autistic adults (QC), and innovative solutions for community acquisition of deeply affordable housing (BC). Other projects examine culturally relevant data collection for Métis populations (SK, ON), supportive housing strategies for Black youth (ON), and resilience planning in the face of climate-driven insurance shifts. Two notable Indigenous-led initiatives include an assessment of the Sagatay men’s transitional housing program (ON) and a housing needs assessment tool (BC), which seeks to inform future developments rooted in community expertise.

Through this targeted funding, CMHC says it is “reinforcing its commitment to evidence-based decision-making and collaborative innovation in the housing sector.”

The NHS Research and Planning Fund is open to not-for-profits, registered charities, and Indigenous organizations, and aims to promote collaboration, evidence-driven strategies, and long-term capacity building in housing research. The Fund has an annual budget allocation of $750,000 that covers all three activity streams, broken down as follows:

Planning activities: up to $75,000 over a maximum duration of 12 months.
Research projects: up to $250,000 over a maximum duration of 24 months.
Knowledge mobilization projects: up to $75,000 over a maximum duration of 12 months.

Canada-EU digital trading channels contemplated

Digital trading channels could forge more connections between Canadian and European markets. A newly launched public consultation is seeking input on a potential digital trade agreement to complement the Canada-European Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

“By concluding a Canada-EU digital trade agreement, Canada could address emerging technology issues, promote its interests in inclusive trade and be at the forefront of the development of international rules governing digital trade,” an advisory from Global Affairs Canada states. “Early input from stakeholders is essential to identify Canadian priorities, interests and concerns in order to help define the scope of a potential agreement with the EU.”

Interested parties can weigh in on the barriers to cross-Atlantic digital commerce they may currently encounter and/or comment on a range of issues related to access to and security of digital marketplaces, data transfer logistics and interoperability standards, artificial intelligence, and protecting intellectual property and personal information and privacy. The consultation is open until Aug. 23, 2025.

Int’l design competition call for Banff National Park

The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) is partnering with Parks Canada in overseeing an international design competition for the iconic 200-Block of Banff Avenue in Banff National Park.

“This iconic location in the heart of Banff National Park offers a rare opportunity to elevate public space through design excellence. The RAIC is committed to a fair, open, and inspiring competition process that reflects the voices of Indigenous partners, residents, and visitors alike. We look forward to showcasing innovative concepts that will shape a lasting legacy for this extraordinary Canadian landmark,” said Mike Brennan, RAIC CEO.

Parks Canada announced the beginning of the pre-qualification phase for the architectural design competition after which up to six respondents will be invited to submit conceptual design proposals. The competition will be undertaken in accordance with the RAIC guidance for competitions in Canada.

To be considered, the conceptual designs must incorporate extensive feedback received by Parks Canada through years-long Indigenous, public, and stakeholder engagement. This project presents a unique opportunity to modernize facilities and open spaces in downtown Banff to welcome national park visitors, encourage connection with the national park, foster a welcoming and vibrant community.

Each successful design proposal will be evaluated by an independent jury composed of recognized design and architecture professionals. The jury will evaluate the proposals and feedback received in further public engagement sessions and then provide a recommendation to Parks Canada.

Concluding in spring 2026, the design competition for the 200-Block Banff Avenue Redevelopment Project will follow established industry standards and protocols and bring professional expertise to the evaluation process to generate world-class conceptual designs for this unique and iconic Canadian landmark.

Training crews to work safely around traffic

A thorough orientation that includes traffic work zone safety is a powerful tool for companies employing people who work at or on the roadside.

Safe work zones are a regulatory requirement in B.C. and play a critical role in preventing worker injuries caused by moving vehicles. They can also help improve productivity by creating a more organized and efficient work environment.

Employers have a legal requirement to provide safety orientation for all workers. Whether your crew is on a busy street or a quiet neighbourhood road, they’re in a work zone. They need to know how to set up safely and protect themselves from moving vehicles.

Here are some tips you should use during orientation, from Road Safety at Work.

Train crews to be prepared

Before leaving for the work site, crews should:

Ensure that the vehicle is equipped with all safety equipment, including wheel chocks, fire extinguisher, and first aid supplies
Plan for changing conditions like rain, glare, or low light that can make it harder for drivers to see them
Know your first aid procedures

Train crews in risk assessment

Before getting out of the vehicle, crews need to identify the site-specific hazards, assess the risks, and take steps to reduce the risks. They should:

Pre-plan their work to determine the equipment needed and if traffic control is required
Identify hazards such as traffic, pedestrians, and tight spaces
Assess how well passing drivers can see them, especially near blind corners, steep slopes, and from a distance
Wear high-visibility personal protective equipment (PPE)
Determine proper placement of cones to guide traffic and prevent it from entering the work zone
Ensure there are clear sightlines and buffer zones, signs, or spotters to warn others
Make sure spotters are positioned safely, can communicate clearly with the crew, and that all communication signals are reviewed before work begins.

Train crews in your safety procedures

Make sure everyone knows your company’s rules for working around traffic. They need to know what “safe” looks like, and what to do when things don’t go as planned. Some things to cover include:

Where to park (and where not to)
Properly wearing their PPE
Who is in charge of cones and signs
Keeping sightlines clear when unloading or backing up

Do a vehicle, equipment walk-through

Each crew member should know:

Where safety equipment (cones, flashers, PPE) is stored and how to use it
How to check visibility using mirrors and cameras

Have crews demonstrate your procedures to confirm their understanding.

Provide practical or competency-based training

Practice using real-world scenarios. These could include:

Backing into tight residential driveways
Setting up a work zone along a narrow curb

Workers must be instructed to always face oncoming traffic, stay alert to their surroundings, and to ensure the safety of themselves and their co-workers.

Keep a record of orientation

Maintain records for each worker, including completed education and training, orientation records, and a copy of their driver’s licence and record if they drive on the job. The paperwork is part of your due diligence.

Provide regular refreshers

Reinforce safe practices with regular conversations, tailgate talks, and spot checks. Provide training whenever drivers switch vehicles, return after a long absence, or when you update company procedures.

Visit RoadSafetyAtWork.ca for more work zone safety resources.

Emerging neighbourhoods in the GTA and GVA

Significant infrastructure investments, especially in transportation, are improving neighbourhoods across traditionally undervalued urban and suburban areas, according to REMAX’s Next Neighbourhoods Report.

The report specifically explores ten real estate regions across Greater Toronto and Greater Vancouver—two areas experiencing population growth more than three per cent annually.

“New transportation links, often developed alongside housing, are transforming once overlooked and undervalued neighbourhoods into magnets for buyers seeking shorter commute times while achieving better affordability,” said Don Kottick, president of REMAX Canada. “Expanding access strengthens connectivity in community and creates excellent potential for long-term liveability and value.”

Greater Toronto Area

Scarborough remains one of the most undervalued areas in the region. For decades, many have harboured misconceptions about Scarborough due to a variety of outdated biases, however, it’s incredibly safe, has a diversity of housing stock and many positive attributes, including a renowned performing arts school with students coming from across the city to attend.

“Rapid development of construction has improved affordability in Scarborough communities,” says Cameron Forbes, RE/MAX Realtron Realty Inc. “The average price of a Leaside/Don Mills home–a neighbourhood that’s seeing thousands of units coming onto the market–costs a lot more than Clairlea-Birchmount, easily upwards of $300,000. With studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom units also coming on the market soon, combined with vibrant independent businesses, restaurants and cultural vibrancy, there are lots of attractive options for homebuyers.”

East York has also seen rapid population and infrastructure growth, which has improved affordability, especially with studios and larger condominium units now available. Buyers in the area are more focused on proximity to public transit, and the expected opening of the Eglinton Crosstown this fall will have a significant impact on the desirability of the east end, particularly pockets around Birchmount, Victoria Park, Warden and Wexford.

“Expansions like the Eglinton Crosstown and Ontario Line, which cut through the city, mark investment opportunities for savvy buyers,” Forbes adds.

Hamilton is seeing buyers from Toronto moving out in search of greater affordability and more space. The area is becoming increasingly popular with a reputation for a strong sense of community. Conrad Zurini, broker and owner of RE/MAX Escarpment and Niagara notes that many residents appreciate smaller businesses, the growing cultural and arts scene and the opportunity to shop locally in lieu of big box retailers.

Up-and-Coming Neighbourhoods Across the Greater Toronto Area

Clairlea-Birchmount (Toronto) has grown in popularity for its blend of urban and suburban living, transit access, and diverse neighbourhoods that appeal to young professionals and families. Its proximity to Taylor Creek Park adds ample green space. Average house price: $932,014

Wexford-Maryvale (Toronto) is a family-friendly neighbourhood offering a cozy, suburban feel with quick access to the Don Valley and 401. Just minutes from downtown Toronto, it features mostly low-rise 1–2 story homes and brick bungalows. Average house price: $1,070,857

Crown Point (Hamilton) in west Hamilton is a diverse, mostly residential neighbourhood with affordable, owner-occupied detached homes featuring finished basements and backyards. It offers easy highway access, schools, amenities, and a trendy yet exclusive feel close to work hubs. Average house price: $570,000

Aldershot South (Burlington) on Burlington Bay’s west end, offers easy highway and GO Transit access, a mix of housing, and plentiful parks, green spaces, and waterfront views. It’s growing into a vibrant, well-connected community without heavy traffic. Average House Price: $899,000

Downtown Markham (Markham) has a new York University campus, rising condo developments, and improved transit, and this growing hub offers restaurants, activities, and cultural attractions. Average house price: $660,000 to $1,625,000.

Seaton (Pickering) is a rapidly developing master-planned community in Pickering and is gaining attention for its strategic location and infrastructure. Average house price: $1,013,326

Don Mills – Victoria Village (Toronto) has been shaped by the Eglinton Crosstown, among many other East end communities, improving downtown access. They offer top arts schools, larger, more affordable homes than Don Mills/Leaside, and spacious lots with post-WWII heritage. Average house price: $1,126,000

Greater Vancouver Area

In the Greater Vancouver area, access to the SkyTrain and major highways has improved over the last two years and influenced the assessment of “next neighbourhoods” in the region.

According to Tim Hill, RE/MAX All Points Realty, Sapperton, New Westminster, and Mount Pleasant East, in Vancouver, neighbourhoods are seeing an exodus from the downtown core. “Restaurants and breweries are popping up in Mount Pleasant East which is more walkable and has a better vibe. The growing food and beverages scenes, matched with better affordability than downtown makes this neighbourhood a top up-and–comer.” Hill added. Mount Pleasant East has an average house price of $873,933, while Sapperton is slightly more expensive at $1,388,000 on average.

Increasingly Bridgeport, a Richmond neighbourhood, offers better affordability. Properties in Bridgeport offer older detached homes at an average price of $300,000 cheaper than its neighbour Steveston – only 20 minutes away. “Buyers are prioritizing affordability, with walkable and complete communities falling second,” says Adam Wachtel, REMAX West Coast. The average single detached house price in Bridgeport is $1,771,763 with more affordability for apartments at $670,600.

For buyers in the Vancouver area, there remains a strong stigma to living in close proximity to the bridges and tunnels connecting the city centre. However, these neighbourhoods are more affordable if buyers are willing to compromise.

Up-and-Coming Neighbourhoods Across the Greater Vancouver Area

Bridgeport (Richmond) known as an established neighbourhood with homes averaging 30 years old and located about 20 minutes from Steveston, Bridgepoint offers strong transit access and prices up to $300,000 lower than Steveston. Average house price: $$1,069,900

Ladner (South Delta): Ladner, on the Surrey/Richmond border, offers homes nearly $1 million less than the GVA average. However, the tunnel creates a mental barrier for some due to traffic and infrastructure work. For flexible commuters, the savings are well worth it. Average house price: $1,149,100

Mount Pleasant East (Vancouver) blends historic charm with modern flair, offering one of Vancouver’s largest parks—Everett Crowley. Known for its rising affordability and trendiness, it features great dining, shops, nightlife, and colorful wall murals. Average house price: $873,933

Willoughby Heights (Langley) offers city access via Highway 1, more space, greater affordability, and growing infrastructure, including transit, shops, schools, and recreation. Average house price: $894,516

Fraser Mills (Coquitlam) is under development, mainly for high-rise condos, offering waterfront access and growing amenities. Despite ongoing construction, it’s a promising long-term investment as the area continues to develop. Home prices range between $732,000 and $1,796,600.

Coquitlam West (Coquitlam) is a land assembly project which converts industrial land into housing near the SkyTrain, offering early investment potential. Transit-connected areas like this are primed for high-value growth. Home prices range between $838,071 and $1,963,039.

Capstan Way (Northern Downtown Richmond) offers investment potential with ongoing developments, despite some ownership delays. As revitalization continues, businesses and residents are moving in. Average house price: $899,000.

Making Compromises for Liveability

An Angus Reid survey commissioned by REMAX Canada found that 37 per cent of Canadians have made compromises to live closer to urban centres, including accepting a higher cost of housing. Almost half (41 per cent) of GTA residents and 35 per cent of GVA residents compromised on price to land a location closer to an urban centre.

More than half of Canadians said they love their neighbourhoods, despite these compromises, and agree that their lifestyle aligns with the neighbourhood they live.

“Liveability is important to Canadians, and many buyers know what they’re willing to compromise on, in order to get more on their must-have list,” Kottick adds. “Every market has something for everyone, but not all things. Compromise has always been part of the buying process, which includes managing expectations and setting realistic goals.”

Based on the criteria of affordability, quality of life and a buyer’s return on investment, two types of emerging neighbourhoods surfaced: up-and-coming communities seeing advanced development, and regions that have traditionally been undervalued due to a lack of transportation access and misconceptions.

Affordability and Liveability Remain Top Priorities

Thirty-seven per cent of Canadians said affordability is a top factor in choosing their neighbourhoods. This is down from 44 per cent in a similar 2024 survey. Proximity to amenities and convenient access to public transit were also important.

As well, Canadians said they want to spend more time in their neighbourhoods shopping at local stores (58 per cent), dining out (52 per cent) and socializing with friends, family and neighbours (43 per cent), underpinning the impact a chosen community has on day-to-day liveability.

Most Canadians said new infrastructure and community revitalization bring added benefits to their communities, with more businesses and restaurants having the greatest impact. Transit development ranked lower at 41 per cent, but is viewed as having the biggest impact on the emergence of a “next neighbourhood.”

Increasing Transit Development

Transit infrastructure is playing a role in up-and-coming neighbourhoods.

“Communities often experience transit development before and alongside new residential housing,” adds Kottick. “In Ontario, we’ve seen rapid housing developments labeled Transit-Oriented Communities hugging the new Ontario Line actively under construction.”

New public transit systems in the GTA and GVA aim to better connect neighbourhoods to downtown cores.

“As populations grow, especially in places like Surrey, which is adding about 2,000 residents each month, transit is essential for long-term sustainability,” says Kottick. “These short-term growing pains will ultimately strengthen communities by supporting shorter commutes and creating more time to connect within neighbourhoods.”

The SkyTrain, Eglinton Crosstown, Ontario Line, and GO Transit projects are promised to bring greater diversity of connectivity, affordability, and quality of living to current and future residents.

“Canada needs to look at alternative housing models including factory-made construction to drastically increase housing starts to address the ongoing supply issue,” added Ben Tal, deputy chief economist at CIBC. “Expanding transit and other infrastructure is also just as important, as it adds affordability and connectivity to traditionally less-accessible communities.”

Canada’s housing advocate calls for inquiry into accessible housing shortage

Canada’s federal housing advocate, Marie-Josée Houle, is directing the National Housing Council to launch a review panel to examine the shortage of accessible housing across Canada as it poses a serious human rights concern in every province and territory.

About eight million Canadians have a disability, up from 6.2 million people in 2017.

With life expectancy rising and Canada’s senior population growing rapidly, the demand for accessible housing is increasing sharply. Many people will be unable to remain safely in their homes due to evolving mobility and accessibility needs.

As Canada seeks to build a record number of new homes, the Canadian Human Rights Commission says this is a pivotal moment to build in accessibility, as well as the viewpoints of people with lived experience, from the very start. It is crucial that Canada ensures every person with an accessibility need has an accessible, affordable, and safe place to live.

“There is a shocking lack of accessible housing in Canada, and this is particularly amplified for people in rural, remote, and Northern areas,” said Houle. “In fact, most of us will need some accessibility features in our homes at some point in our lives. We need accessible and inclusive housing to be built into Canada’s housing policies and strategies.”

Some people with disabilities have turned to medical assistance in dying because they can’t access housing and support that meet their needs. A lack of such housing is contrary to Canada’s international and domestic human rights obligations and it undermines countless other human rights, such as health and social services systems and workforce participation.

Data from a joint monitoring project between the Office of the Federal Housing Advocate and the Canadian Human Rights Commission shows that people with disabilities are overrepresented in all aspects of inadequate housing and homelessness. They are more likely to live in unaffordable and unsafe housing, are often living in homes that are not accessible or do not have the necessary physical aids, and are unable to access crucial supports.

The findings and recommendations of the review panel will be set out in a report to the federal Minister responsible for housing, and include the review panel’s opinion on the issue and recommendations to address it. The Minister must respond to the report within 120 days and table that response in the House of Commons and the Senate.

Evolo NEX condo in Montreal awarded with LEED Gold

The Evolo NEX building, located in the heart of the waterfront Pointe-Nord neighbourhood in Nuns’ Island, has been awarded with LEED Gold certification by the Canada Green Building Council.

This is the seventh LEED certification for the Proment Corporation. The developer’s Vistal condos were the first LEED Gold-certified residential towers in Quebec, in 2011 and 2014.

“Reducing the ecological footprint of our buildings is one of our contributions to minimizing our environmental impact and improving people’s well-being,” said Ilan Gewurz, president of Proment Corporation. “Obtaining LEED certification requires completion of a very stringent process, and we are proud to have invested the necessary efforts in doing so.”

Pointe-Nord is one of the few neighbourhoods in Quebec to earn LEED ND Gold (Neighbourhood Development). It is already home to about 2,500 residents.

When completed, Pointe-Nord will occupy a total area of one million square feet and include nearly 2,000 properties with a total value of approximately $700 million.

Located close to the river and the REM station, the Pointe-Nord neighbourhood is situated near various amenities, parks and riverside paths.

Evolo NEX welcomed its first residents in August 2024. A new 26-storey rental tower, located nearby, is currently in the planning stages. That building will feature studios and one to three-bedroom condominiums.

New legislation affects Ontario’s restroom cleaning practices

Starting July 1, 2025, a new requirement will be enforced for all employers in the province of Ontario. Adopted as part of Bill 190 – Working for Workers Five Act, this amendment requires documented proof of regular washroom maintenance, promising penalties for non-compliance. The bill is interesting because for the first time, proper sanitation is becoming a legally regulated occupational health and safety issue across the province.

This article will cover what the law says, who is affected by it, and above all, how to adapt your practices for full compliance.

What the law says

The law requires Ontario employers to practice the following, as of July 1, 2025:

Maintain clean and sanitary washrooms conditions on an ongoing basis.
Keep a cleaning log, indicating when maintenance is carried out and by whom.
Keep this record for at least one year for audit or inspection purposes.

These new requirements are enshrined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), as amended by Bill 190.

Why the change?

Until now, no explicit requirement existed for employers to prove that washroom maintenance was being carried out regularly. Several inspections revealed concerning conditions, such as neglected sanitary facilities, lack of follow-up, and irregular cleaning practices, which led to the introduction of this new legislation.

This new regulation aims to:

Protect workers’ health with regular, documented cleaning.
Reduce the risk of infection and discomfort, especially in high-traffic areas.
Empower managers by providing an opportunity for valid, trackable follow-up and labour management.

The legislation works toward a central theme of Bill 190: increased transparency, as well as simplifying the process and improving restroom cleanliness. The regulation will also help janitorial staff stay consistent and improve results, helping to highlight effective work practices and staff.

Who is affected by Bill 190?

This legislation is provincewide, encompassing all Ontario workplaces under provincial jurisdiction, including:

Offices
Factories
Shopping malls
Warehouses
Healthcare facilities
Schools and universities
Construction sites (explicitly included)

In short, any company that provides “washroom facilities” for its employees will have to comply with the new legislation.

Choosing a paper or digital log

The regulation does not stipulate whether companies need a digital or paper version of the log, but there are definite advantages to both options:

With a paper log, it’s simple to implement, and very easy to use for all employees. Its is relatively cost-free, so no investment is required. However, it may not be visually appealing and could be easily misplaced, damaged, or destroyed. This type of log could be easily forged, and may be difficult to read as various employees fill in the spaces. Lastly, a paper version makes it difficult to collect data, archive results, and centralize information for multi-site businesses.

A digital log, while easy to use, may require an investment to implement. It also provides easy access to managers and staff, including valuable data like time and date stamps and times for easy tracking. This type of log is also customizable, so it can be tailored for each company’s needs, offering a more attractive option, and is a more sustainable option when compared to a paper version. Non-forgeable, this system provides reliable, real-time data with enhanced traceability and the ability to generate reports by time period or by building for accurate tracking. Many of the digital options are also compatible with certification tools (BOMA, LEED, ESG) to help companies work towards their sustainability goals.

Multi-site organizations or companies wishing to simply comply with the new regulation should seriously consider a digital solution for optimal results.

Get ready now!

Here are the 5 key steps to make sure you’re ready to implement protocols to comply with the new regulation:

Identify all sanitary installations under your responsibility.
Choose your tracking method (paper or digital) and create the necessary tools.
Train relevant employees to use the register or practice new protocols.
Establish a procedure for storing your logbooks (for a minimum of one year).
Consider adding a dashboard or connected system to improve efficiency and transparency.

Failure to comply

Ignoring this new responsibility could have serious consequences for companies, including:

Substantial fines (up to $100,000 for individuals, more for companies)
Potential for inspections and guest or employee complaints
Negative impact on certifications (BOMA, LEED, etc.).
Loss of reputation and credibility with occupants or unions.

A step forward

Bill 190 marks an important turning point in workplace hygiene management in Ontario, making what was once good practice now a legal requirement. By setting up a clear, reliable and traceable cleaning logbook, you comply with required regulations, protecting your visitors, your staff, and your business.

Karl Bédard is the Senior Director at ValkarTech, a consulting firm dedicated to optimizing commercial cleaning contracts. As an experienced LEED Green Associates certified auditor, he conducts many building visits and evaluates customers’ various processes.

Canadian investors escape super BEAT down

International negotiations have given Canadian investors a reprieve from threatened higher costs of doing business in the United States commercial real estate market. On June 26, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called for punitive provisions to be removed from the tax bill that is progressing through debate stages in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.

Those provisions, contained in Section 899 of the massive bill, targeted corporations and individuals from countries deemed to have tax measures that are discriminatory to U.S. businesses. These are primarily defined as countries that levy a tax on digital services and/or have implemented the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) undertaxed profits rule (UTPR) as part of a global minimum tax.

Senate leaders have now agreed to Bessent’s request. This sets aside earlier recommendations that would have exposed Canadian real estate companies and partnerships that have U.S. subsidiaries to a so-called super base erosion and anti-abuse tax (BEAT), reducing their ability to claim deductions on income earned in the United States, as a consequence of Canada’s digital services tax. Investors from a larger group of countries — including European Union members, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand — would have been subject to higher withholding tax rates on rents, interest and capital gains because their governments apply the UTPR.

“The current BEAT really only comes into play with quite large companies and large cross-border payments, like multinational car companies that are paying huge royalties to a German parent or something like that,” explains Jennifer Hanna, a senior counsel specializing in tax law with Borden Ladner Gervais LLP. “Super BEAT is basically the BEAT, but applied to a lot broader range of companies where the owners are in one of these designated countries that are on the naughty list.”

Bessent signalled that the U.S. administration had suspended its erstwhile naughty list in a June 26 posting on the social media platform, X. Section 899 had been characterized as more of a deal-making tactic than straight fiscal policy, and an agreement is expected with G7 countries and OECD members to address U.S. displeasure with the premise of the global minimum tax and related mechanisms for collecting it.

“At our last G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting we agreed to work together to restore greater stability and predictability for the world economy. We welcome Secretary Bessent’s work to have Section 899 removed from consideration in the bill before Congress,” Canada’s Finance Minister, François-Phillippe Champagne, stated in his own follow-up X posting.

U.S. CRE industry opposes Section 899

Advocates for the U.S. commercial real estate industry also welcome the news since they had been lobbying against Section 899. Several prominent organizations — including the CRE Finance Council, NAIOP, National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (Nareit), International Council of Shopping Centers and National Multifamily Housing Council — sent a joint letter to Senate leaders earlier this month to warn the measures could discourage foreign investment, reduce access to capital, increase financing costs and saddle American borrowers with contractual penalties.

“A key reason foreign investors are attracted to U.S. commercial real estate is the stability and predictability of U.S. tax laws,” the June 12 correspondence states. “Due to the unique nature of Section 899 as a retaliatory tax, even in draft form, it is having a chilling effect on potential foreign investment in U.S. real estate. Foreign real estate investors are pausing or delaying potential investments due to this abrupt policy shift.”

It’s estimated that foreign investors have channelled USD $213 billion (CAD $290 billion) into the U.S. commercial real estate over the past five years, including USD $57 billion (CAD $77.5 billion) into multifamily housing. Beyond direct investment in real estate assets, the CRE Finance Council (CREFC), representing more than 420 member companies in the U.S. finance industry, voiced concern about the potential impact on foreign lenders and foreign investors in U.S. funds, including debt funds providing real estate financing.

Prior to Bessant’s new exhortation, the Senate had proposed a 5 per cent annual increase in the withholding tax rate for businesses and investors from the specified “offending foreign countries”, beginning in 2027, to take it up to a maximum of 15 per cent on top of the existing corporate tax rate. That would change the number-crunching on price for foreign investors’ acquisitions and inadvertently capture U.S. borrowers with foreign financing.

“CRE loans frequently include provisions in which the borrower contractually agrees to bear the risk of changes due to international tax law. For existing loans, any additional tax imposed under Section 899 would be the responsibility of the borrower, typically in the form of a gross-up payment to the foreign lender,” CREFC noted.

Foreseen Canadian fallout averted

Analysts on this side of the border also flagged potential issues for Canadian investors’ U.S. portfolios even if Canada wasn’t targeted for the higher withholding tax rate.

“This could reduce overall exit liquidity for certain deals, as fewer foreign buyers are likely to be present,” observes Mitch Strohminger, director of market analytics with the commercial real estate data provider, CoStar Group.

Meanwhile, the proposed super BEAT would create complications for cross-border financial arrangements that are now fairly common for Canadian real estate entities that have U.S. subsidiaries. For example, Hanna advises that it is often “tax-efficient” for a Canadian parent to finance the purchase of a U.S. asset with an interest-bearing loan to its subsidiary. The subsidiary could then deduct the interest payments from U.S. taxable income, while the interest payments to the Canadian parent may have a lesser tax impact here, particularly if they are made to a fund that has tax-exempt investors like pension funds.

“With super BEAT, for these really standard cross-border structures, you’d have to do a recalculation to see if the interest can be deducted on the U.S. side, and, if not, it would have to be restructured. You can’t have interest coming into Canada that’s not invested in the U.S.; that’s double tax,” Hanna says. “Also, if you’re paying your Canadian parent for management services, those amounts may not be deductible in the U.S.. Anything that would have been deductible in the U.S. could be affected by a super BEAT.”

For now, the threat appears to have abated. Once conjured, though, there are questions of whether it could cast lingering uncertainty over the U.S. market or, alternatively, augment Canada’s safe haven reputation.

“Canada has a somewhat unfriendly withholding tax regime for foreign investors when it comes to a sale. A non-resident may have to go through some certification and clearance processes,” Hanna says. “But, at the end of the day, if there’s a capital gain, the Canadian tax is 12.5 or 13 per cent, including the provincial rate, and many foreign investors will be able to get a credit for that.”

Strohminger suggests finding assets to buy to could be more of a challenge.

“Foreign investors who targeted the U.S. may, in some cases, look to Canada as an alternative, but our investible real estate universe is much smaller and is dominated by large domestic players. So the effect will likely be limited,” he muses.

Construction begins on VGH new operating rooms

Construction has begun on 15 new operating rooms and one hybrid operating room upgrade as part of Phase 2 of the operating-room expansion at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH). Completion of both phases of the operating-room expansion is expected to increase the number of surgeries from 16,800 to more than 19,000 per year.

“These new universal operating rooms will substantially increase the number of surgeries that can be delivered from Vancouver General Hospital,” said Minister of Infrastructure Bowinn Ma. “Construction is now underway on these important health-care facilities, while also creating good jobs during construction and, once complete, in health care.”

The new operating rooms will have a universal design, allowing any surgery to be performed in any room. They will be built to better accommodate equipment and storage, supporting a logical flow of tasks and activities during surgeries and improving efficiency. The enhanced design, technology and equipment will create a safer, more comfortable working environment for all staff and will optimize patient safety and surgical outcomes.

The new operating rooms will be built on level 2 of the Jim Pattison Pavilion at VGH. Construction is expected to finish in 2029.

In May 2021, Phase 1 of the project was completed with the opening of the Phil and Jennie Gaglardi Surgical Centre, featuring 16 advanced operating rooms and a 40-bay pre- and post-operative recovery area.

Once phase 2 is finished, the surgical centre will have 32 operating rooms and 78 perioperative bays, along with upgraded infrastructure, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical and plumbing systems. With these new, flexible operating rooms, health-care teams will be able to increase the number of operating room hours available and surgeries performed.

U.S. CRE industry opposes Section 899

Foreseen Canadian fallout averted

IDS Vancouver

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