Steelworkers warn new tariff order will disrupt key sectors

The Trump administration’s decision to double tariffs on both steel and aluminum to 50 per cent would devastate Canada’s industries and hundreds of thousands of jobs. The United Steelworkers union (USW) is urging the federal government to act swiftly and forcefully.

“A 50% tariff would completely shut us out of the U.S. market,” said Marty Warren, USW National Director for Canada. “This isn’t trade policy – it’s a direct attack on Canadian industries and workers. Thousands of Canadian jobs are on the line and communities that rely on steel and aluminum are being put at risk. Canada needs to respond immediately and decisively to defend workers.”

The tariffs will take effect on Wednesday, June 4. USW said these measures would severely disrupt integrated North American supply chains and threaten jobs, both directly and indirectly, in sectors like manufacturing, auto, defense, aerospace, and construction. Canada is the United States’ largest supplier of steel and aluminum.

“Workers in Canada’s steel and aluminum industries have already been hit hard by months of uncertainty,” Warren added. “Now their livelihoods are being threatened again. We need more than statements. We need concrete action — and we need it now.”

The top priority must be expanding the use of Section 53 of the Customs Tariff and apply targeted countermeasures to protect the Canadian market from offshore steel, the union announced. The government must also eliminate the exemptions that allow U.S. steel and aluminum to enter Canada tariff-free. If the United States is closing its market to Canadian producers, Ottawa must ensure Canadian producers are not undercut in their own.

Strengthening domestic demand through industrial investment and domestic procurement reform must also be a priority. This could include requiring Canadian-made steel and aluminum in all publicly funded infrastructure projects to support local jobs and build long-term resilience, introducing a made-in-Canada tax credit to further incentivize the use of domestic materials by private industry, and supporting affected workers through a reform of employment insurance and a wage subsidy program with jobs guarantees to help retain skilled workers.

U.S. tariffs double on Canadian aluminium

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday doubling the tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 50 per cent, a move that the Aluminium Association of Canada is calling a “misguided measure that threatens the security of North America’s integrated supply chain.”

“A 50 per cent tariff on Canadian aluminium will suppress demand across the continent — whether the metal is produced in Canada or the U.S.,” said Jean Simard, president and CEO. “It will impact workers on both sides of the border and disrupt key sectors including defense, construction and automotive.

At a rate of $1,349.50 per metric ton, the tariff effectively makes Canadian exports to the U.S. economically unviable. While Canada remains committed to serving its U.S. customers, the industry may be forced to diversify trade toward the European Union.

“This measure risks increasing U.S. reliance on aluminium from distant sources — including China, Russia, India and the Middle East — for a material critical to national security,” said Simard. “It jeopardizes 125 years of cross-border industrial cooperation and will trigger a fundamental shift in global trade flows.”

The Canadian industry supports the U.S. goal of increasing domestic aluminium production capacity from 50 to 80 per cent. However, punitive tariffs do not create the certainty needed for long-term, capital-intensive investments. Even with higher domestic output, the U.S. will continue to rely on substantial aluminium imports.

Canada’s 9,500 aluminium workers produce metal that is transformed by more than 700,000 American manufacturing workers into essential products. This binational value chain contributes more than $228 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

The association said the priority for both countries should be addressing unfair trade practices by China, whose state-subsidized overcapacity has distorted global markets, forced smelters to shut down and undermined producers in North America.

It also cautioned that while the U.S. produces roughly 1 million metric tons of primary aluminium annually, it consumes five times that amount. Tariffs will only raise costs for U.S. manufacturers and consumers at a time of ongoing inflation concerns.

Toronto rental building first to earn LGBTQ+ accreditation

Hazelview Properties has opened Canada’s first Rainbow Registered residential rental building located at 73/75 Broadway Ave in Toronto. While numerous businesses across the country hold the accreditation, the Story of Midtown Toronto rental property is the first rental building to receive the honour.

“At Hazelview, we go all out to build and nurture a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture, whether it’s in our workplace or properties we manage,” says Jasmin Pirani, Partner, Marketing and Social Impact. “Earning the Rainbow Registered accreditation for Story of Midtown Toronto is a proud milestone that reflects our dedication to creating safe, welcoming spaces where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. This recognition reaffirms our promise to foster communities that celebrate diversity and prioritize the well-being of all residents.”

Rainbow Registered is an accreditation program run by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC). The program grants a time-limited recognition to businesses and organizations for demonstrating compliance with the quality standard. Accredited businesses are deemed market-ready for the 2SLGBTQI+ customer and given the right to be associated with the program’s prestigious Rainbow Registered designation.

Story of Midtown Toronto received the accreditation in recognition of its commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that both residents and team members experience a welcoming and supportive environment. Inclusion at the property is embedded in everyday interactions, such as a paid volunteer day for community causes, Pride-themed email signatures, and resident communications that reinforce respect and belonging.

Team members undergo comprehensive training on 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion, covering pronoun usage, unconscious bias, and inclusive language to foster real-world allyship. Additionally, the building operates under a people-first framework, where policies go beyond stating values and instead outline clear steps to support individuals from all diverse backgrounds. These policies are reviewed annually, with mandatory employee acknowledgment, ensuring consistency, accountability, and a culture of care.

Hazelview Properties is also in the process of receiving the Rainbow Registered accreditation for its corporate offices and select properties within its Toronto/GTA portfolio as part of the organization’s larger commitment to create inclusive environments where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated.

“We are thrilled to recognize Hazelview Properties as Canada’s first Rainbow Registered residential rental building,” says Connor McKiggan (They/Him), National Business Development Manager, Canadian 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce. “This milestone reflects a powerful commitment to inclusive housing—one where 2SLGBTQI+ residents are not just welcomed but meaningfully supported. By embedding equity into its policies, training, and everyday operations, Hazelview is setting a new standard for what it means to build community. We’re proud to stand alongside them as they lead by example.”

Nova Scotia scrutinizes liquor retailing

A newly launched consultation is asking Nova Scotians to weigh in on liquor retailing with a possible eye to expanding the number and types of venues where alcohol can be purchased and/or consumed. The provincial government plans to randomly survey about 1,500 individual residents in the coming weeks, and the general public is also invited to submit comments until June 30.

“Nova Scotia is taking steps to eliminate interprovincial trade barriers and that makes this a good time to look at how alcohol is sold and consumed,” says Nova Scotia Minister of Finance and Treasury Board John Lohr. “We’ll be reaching out to interested groups and polling Nova Scotians to determine whether this is something they’re interested in and what their concerns might be.”

The government is anticipating feedback from roughly 250 stakeholder groups. Meanwhile, the province’s largest union has stated its opposition to broadening sales beyond the 300 or so venues currently licensed to sell alcohol. That includes the provincially operated retailer, Nova Scotia Liquor Corp., private wine and speciality stores, farmers’ markets and on-site retail outlets at breweries and wineries.

“The whole idea is a solution in search of a problem,” asserts Sandra Mullen, president of the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees’ Union (NSGEU). “Putting alcohol in convenience stores will end up making it easier to buy a 12-pack than it is to buy a double-double at Tim Horton’s. Moreover, it has the potential to reduce much-needed provincial revenue, which is used to fund health care, education and other important public services that people count on.”

Pressure washing your property

Maintenance managers work hard all year to keep the property looking professional, from completing repairs to managing the grounds, and more. Pressure washing can be an effective tool to remove dirt, salt, and sand and restore curb appeal on walkways, in parking lots, on building exteriors, and with outdoor furniture, fixtures and dumpster or recycling areas.

The benefits

Along with cleaning your exterior surfaces, pressure washing can also:

Lengthen the lifespan of your driveway or parking lot by clearing out any accumulated acidic grime and algae, which can erode the surface.
Prevent long-term damage by clearing out weeds and vegetation growth, which can lead to cracking and the need for repairs.
Improve safety by mitigating the appearance of cracks, dirt, or slippery mildew on the surface.

Here are some tips for effectively using a power washer to clean your outdoor surfaces:

For a professional-grade clean, a pressure washer with a minimum of 2500psi and a flow rate of 10 litres per minute is recommended.
Investing in or renting safety gear such as sturdy boots, eye protection, and gloves can protect you from dislodged debris or detergent splashes.
Avoid pressure washing surfaces with loose stones or gravel, as damage or injury can be caused when they are scattered from the pressure.
Ensure that you have the correct pressure, are holding the washer far enough away from the surface, and that you move the washer rather than spending too long in one place. Improper use can lead to pitting, surface lines, degradation, and erosion of joint sand or mortar between bricks or paving stones. Spend some time getting used to the machines and testing them before moving on to the surface you are looking to clean.
The process can be lengthy, so budget enough time and labour to get the job done effectively.

Incorporating pressure washing into your spring and summer maintenance plan can help managers enhance curb appeal, increase safety, practice preventive maintenance, and offer cost-effective solutions. Maintenance managers can use this tool as a simple way to improve the look of their property throughout the spring and summer seasons.

Salto’s smart intercom system uses your smartphone for guest access

Today’s crowded real estate market relies on strategic solutions to elevate resident experiences and simplify operations for property managers. As technology continues to revolutionize so much of the resident experience, modern intercom systems, like Salto’s XS4 Com iGO leverage new tech like smartphones and QR codes to allow for convenient two-way communication and simplified access. As a hardware-free solution, XS4 Com iGO utilizes QR and NFC technology to facilitate secure visitor access and communication for a seamless, superior resident and guest experience.

Along with improving day-to-day living, modern tools like this one provide a tech-forward impression of the building that can raise perceived value, save time, and attract a greater number of residents.

“XS4 Com iGO is a practical solution for properties looking to enhance visitor access without the need for costly video panels or new cabling infrastructure,” explains Preston Grutzmacher, Residential Business Leader, Salto North America. “Visitors use their smartphones, while residents have the XS4 Com door intercom app, ensuring an incredible and secure access experience.”

How does XS4 Com iGO simplify the resident experience?

As a hardware-free video intercom solution that connects seamlessly with modern access control technology, XS4 Com iGO significantly simplifies life for residents. Key features include:

Convenient visitor access: Visitors can simply scan the QR code or tap the NFC tag on the XS4 Com iGO plate or sticker to access the phonebook, eliminating the need for physical keys or traditional intercom hardware.

Real-time communication: The system enables secure face-to-face video calls between visitors and residents, allowing residents to verify guests visually before granting access.

Remote management: Managing building access can be handled remotely, even allowing property managers and residents to provide assistance via video call if visitors have trouble entering. The system maintains an audit trail that monitors entry, ensuring comprehensive security coverage.

Comprehensive audit trail: The system maintains a detailed record that monitors all entry events, ensuring complete security coverage and accountability.

XS4 Com iGO saves property managers time and money

The XS4 Com iGO intercom system dramatically simplifies property management operations. With no need to install dedicated hardware in each residential unit, property managers save significantly on installation costs and maintenance. The system eliminates the logistical headaches of managing physical intercoms, reducing service calls for malfunctioning equipment and freeing staff to focus on more valuable tasks. Property managers can also remotely configure and troubleshoot the entire intercom system from a centralized platform, eliminating time-consuming on-site visits. Other benefits include:

Simplified management: The XS4 Com cloud platform allows property managers to easily add or remove residents, streamline management of multiple entrances from a single system, and configure different access levels for various users (residents, staff, visitors), saving property managers precious time.

Reduced infrastructure costs: Without expensive wiring required throughout the building and no need to maintain traditional intercom hardware in each unit, XS4 Com iGO requires significantly lower installation costs compared to traditional systems. The solution consists of simple QR code and NFC-enabled plates or stickers that can be mounted at building entrances.

Professional appearance: The market is competitive, and first impressions matter. Modern technology like XS4 Com iGO creates an upscale impression and a clean, minimalist entrance without bulky hardware.

Enhanced building security: The system offers heightened security by eliminating unauthorized key duplication, along with swift and simple deactivation of access for moved-out residents. Rather than relying on traditional intercom voice access alone, video verification can be completed before allowing access, granting total control over who is coming and going into the building as approved guests. Not only can you see visitors, but historical data is available for your reference with a complete audit trail showing who accessed the building and when. The system also utilizes geofencing technology to ensure visitors can only initiate calls when they are within a certain distance of the property.

Emergency services access: Emergencies happen, and property managers want to be able to act swiftly and efficiently. This system allows property managers to grant immediate access to emergency responders remotely for critical situations where quick entry is needed.

Technology is vital to today’s modern living. The XS4 Com iGO system transforms residential building entry from an outdated, hardware-dependent process to a modern, smartphone-enabled solution that benefits managers, owners, and residents while enhancing security and convenience.

Salto is a leading global access solutions provider, developing facility access, identity management, and electronic locking technology, providing seamless, reliable, and secure experiences. For more information about Salto’s XS4 Com iGO, please visit their website.

Edmonton breaks ground on Capital Line South LRT

The City of Edmonton broke ground on the latest expansion of the Capital Line South LRT extension. The Phase 1 extension is 4.5 kilometres and will run along the west side of 111 Street from Century Park station to the future Heritage Valley North station at the Heritage Valley Transit Centre and Park & Ride.

“The expansion of the Capital Line South LRT marks an exciting milestone in Edmonton’s transit journey,” said the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister, Emergency Management and Community Resilience, and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada. “This project will better connect neighbourhoods, bridge communities, and give Edmontonians faster, more reliable and more efficient ways to get around their city.”

Capital Line Design-Build Ltd., a member of the Ledcor Group of Companies, with AECOM as its design partner, has been awarded the Design-Build contract for Phase 1 of the Capital Line South LRT Extension project. The total project budget is $1.38 billion.

“Ledcor is thrilled to partner with the City of Edmonton, AECOM and our local contractors to construct this important transportation infrastructure that will serve our growing city for decades to come,” said Brad Mytko, SVP infrastructure, Ledcor Group. “As members of the Edmonton community for over 75 years, we are proud to be part of this significant legacy project and are committed to prioritizing safety, protecting the environment and delivering the project successfully.”

Ledcor started major construction in early 2025. Construction is expected to take four to five years, followed by testing and commissioning. Phase 1 project highlights include:

LRT underpass at 111 Street and 23 Avenue
Two new bridges:
- Blackmud Creek LRT bridge
- Anthony Henday Drive LRT bridge
Two new stations:
- Twin Brooks station
- Heritage Valley North station (connects to the Heritage Valley Transit Centre and Park & Ride)
Llew Lawrence Operations and Maintenance Facility (south of Anthony Henday Drive)
New Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs).

AEDs coming to Ontario construction sites

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) will be required equipment on many Ontario construction sites under proposed amendments to the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Act. The stipulation has been introduced as part of a package of labour and employment legislation in Bill 30, which also contains the framework for a new administrative monetary penalty (AMP) regime tied to workplace and job site health and safety.

“Our skilled workers are at the centre of our government’s plan to build highways, energy and key infrastructure,” says David Piccini, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Ensuring life-saving equipment is where it’s needed to keep them safe is one more way we’re creating safer workplaces.”

As proposed, AEDs would be mandatory on sites with 20 or more workers where the construction or infrastructure project is expected to last for at least three months. The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) would reimburse subject employers for required purchase of the devices. That’s a cost currently estimated at about $2,300 per unit.

“Automated external defibrillators on construction projects will help save lives, ensuring that workers can be protected in emergency situations,” maintains Marc Arsenault, business manager of the Building & Construction Trades Council of Ontario.

“We are particularly supportive of initiatives that deliver practical, measurable impact, such as the requirement for AEDs on larger construction sites. These changes reflect a shared commitment to fostering safer, more resilient job sites across the province,” concurs Jeff Spitzig, executive vice president of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Ontario.

Sustainable floor care

More and more companies are prioritizing sustainability and ESG as part of their cleaning and maintenance programs. With the global green cleaning market projected to grow to around $430.61 billion by 2030, many companies will be looking to make cleaning more sustainable, and floor care is one area where maintenance managers and cleaners can focus their attention.

Adding sustainability to your floor care protocols doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing endeavour – companies can take small steps to get greener and improve their environmental impact over time.

Starting with an assessment of your current equipment and protocols will give you an idea of where improvements can be made, along with gauging how much water, energy, and resources you are using each time. This is a great starting point to make changes that improve performance and environmental impact. Look at how frequently you are vacuuming and mopping, replacing your cleaning product inventory, and how much your facility is recycling, so you can get a handle on where you’re maximizing your efforts and where opportunities exist.
Get greener with your products. According to Green Seal’s 2023 Impact Report, Green Seal-certified cleaning products save the equivalent of 1.7 billion 1-litre plastic bottles each year, so choosing certified green products can help make an impact.
Choose tools made from recycled or repurposed materials. Using plastic brooms, brushes, or single-use products can detract from your sustainability goals and add to the landfills. Use products with natural and non-toxic ingredients to lessen the impact on the environment, switch to microfibre mops to reduce the amount of chemicals and water needed, and choose water-based floor finishes with lower levels of VOCs.
Consider the entire process, from your supply chain to your protocols, when looking to go greener. Look for suppliers that use recyclable packaging, assess your water and energy usage, develop schedules that strategically maximize labour and resources, invest in technology and more sustainable equipment and supplies to become more sustainable.
Continue to assess your practices to improve and refine your efforts. As new technology, equipment, and products emerge, sustainable cleaning can become a more attainable goal.

Cleaning companies that prioritize sustainable floor care can appeal to more of their clients, lower their carbon footprint, and make significant strides towards their ESG goals.

N.B. Legislative Assembly installs rooftop beehives

The New Brunswick Legislative Assembly installed beehives on the roof of the Departmental Building in Fredericton in honour of World Bee Day on May 20.

This ongoing initiative is the result of collaboration between Health Minister John Dornan and Francine Landry, Speaker of the legislature. Dornan, a hobby beekeeper, offered two of his own hives to promote pollination on the grounds of the legislative assembly and the surrounding area.

The initiative aims to pollinate nearby flowers, plants and crops, and the harvested honey will be used to promote New Brunswick. About 50,000 bees live in the hives, and, in the fall, the honey produced will be bottled and labelled as Speaker’s Honey. The jars of honey will be offered as gifts to dignitaries and ambassadors who visit the legislative assembly, and to food banks or charitable organizations.

Beginning in June, people will be able to see the activity around the beehives in real time from a kiosk at the entrance to the legislative assembly.

“While our hard-working bees are busy filling their hives with parliamentary honey, we wish them a fruitful pollination season and wish New Brunswickers a summer that is just as productive,” said Landry.

Photo from left: provincial beekeeper Michel Melanson; Francine Landry, Speaker of the legislature; and Health Minister John Dornan.

1,200-unit housing project planned for Montreal

Groupe HD and Fondaction have formed a partnership to acquire more than 210,000-square feet of land for a major housing development in the heart of the Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve district of Montreal.

A $425-million investment will create 1,200 residential units at a site that stretched from Sherbrooke Street to Chauveau Street. The project will include more than 15 per cent affordable units – approximately 180 homes – and aim for LEED Gold environmental certification.

NEUF Architectes will oversee the design with landscaping by BC2. The project is based on guidelines of the City of Montreal’s Assomption Nord Special Urban Planning Program (PPU), so the design will focus on inclusive residential diversity, quality green spaces, and harmonious densification.

Construction Praxis, the construction division of Groupe HD, will carry out two phases ahead of completion.

Legal setback deemed not fatal to U.S. tariffs

A legal setback for the United States government’s tariff strategy fulfills predictions from insiders versed in that country’s constitutional and law-making intricacies. Industry lobbyists speaking last month during a webinar sponsored by the U.S. Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) advised that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was likely a risky instrument to advance the White House agenda.

“I think the tariff area is an area where the Trump administration is getting ahead of itself,” James Lucier, principal and founding partner of Capital Alpha Partners, a strategic policy research firm based in Washington, D.C., told webinar listeners. “Instead of using tested authorities, which hold up in the courts and would be very, very reliable for establishing future tariff policies, they went to IEEPA, which has never been used to implement tariffs before.”

The U.S. Court of International Trade has now reinforced his misgivings — ruling that the president does not have authority to impose tariffs (which rests with Congress) and that they are not a proper response to the triggering emergencies identified in his executive orders. However, there’s no cost relief on imported products yet. The decision, issued May 28, is now under appeal, and IEEPA is not the sole mechanism propping up the administration’s slate of tariffs.

Notably, tariffs on steel and aluminum are authorized under the U.S. Trade Expansion Act and would not be removed even if the appeal court validates the ruling on the misuse of the IEEPA. In contrast, general 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, which are currently on hold for commodities and goods compliant with the Canada, U.S., Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) on Trade, were established through an executive order that cites IEEPA and an alleged crisis related to fentanyl infiltrating international borders. As well, IEEPA and an executive order were employed to impose reciprocal tariffs, currently set at a baseline 10 per cent, on most of the world’s trading nations except Canada and Mexico.

Lucier and his co-presenter, Scott Segal, a partner and specialist in energy, environment and natural resources law with Bracewell LLP, based in Washington D.C., speculated that other proven, but more time-consuming approaches for imposing tariffs will come into play. With legislated requirements for consultation and Congressional support, it typically takes about 270 days to implement a tariff through section 232 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act or up to a year via section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act.

“They probably will be relying more on those tariffs that take longer to administer,” Lucier said. “Had they waited (initially) the extra months or the year it might have taken to do 301 and 232 tariffs, they’d have a rock solid tariff regime.”

“The use of IEEPA basically allows the White House, in their view, to declare a national emergency and say that a tariff is necessary to address that emergency. But IEEPA does not say that you can impose a tariff based on the emergency; it says: you may impose such economic policy as may prove necessary. It’s much more generic,” Segal explained. “We often say: Don’t ask a court a question you don’t already know the answer to because it might just end up limiting the statute you wanted to proceed under. The president may find that will occur with tariffs.”

Lucier contrasted the “pandemonium” and “improvisation” unfolding around tariffs with the administration’s more tactical approach to deregulation, while Segal likened the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to an invading army that quickly undermines supports that could allow an occupied population to resist and recover. He theorized that rapid workforce and budgetary cuts have left various targeted federal agencies without the resources or stamina to persist until the courts might reverse the administration’s shutdown orders.

“Even if it later turns out to not be legal, so much change has occurred that you can’t put Humpty Dumpty back together again,” Segal mused. “I think, when we look back at DOGE, that’s going to be the story in a number of cases. There are very few agencies that would be able to hang on against an onslaught of presidential revision so some of the changes that are made have a whiff of permanence even if the president loses.”

“In a way, it’s great to have this tariff commotion as a distraction because it’s really directing attention away from a lot of the things that Trump is doing that could be meeting lots of litigation, but, so far, are not — deregulatory movements at the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) in particular,” Lucier added. “I also think that the deregulatory movements will be durable. They (White House) are working according to a plan and they’ve got a long-term vision that anticipates they’ll be losing certain things in the courts. So they’ll just move on to other topics.”

Deregulation is one of the carrots in the White House recipe for economic growth. It’s meant to simmer in with a stick of tariffs to stew more onshore production in the United States, but there are some suggestions that the latter ingredient could be too bitter for investors to digest.

“If Trump had simply refrained from the tariffs, you’d be seeing a lot of new investment in the country now,” Lucier asserted. “On the one hand, it does encourage people to build America, to buy American, to try to produce here, but it also makes it much more expensive to produce anything in the U.S..”

Montreal shopping site to become $3.5B mixed-use community

A vast site in the east of Montreal, currently occupied by two shopping centres, will be redeveloped into a transit-connected mixed-use neighbourhood. The project will unfold over seven phases spanning 15 years and require a total investment of $3.5 billion.

Groupe MACH is planning to include 7,000 residential units as well as a structuring linear park for the LANGELIER project. The neighbourhood will span 1,450,000 square feet, comparable to 25 football fields, at the intersection of Jean-Talon Street and Langelier Boulevard.

Out of the first phase will come five residential towers totaling 1,000 housing units (condominiums and rentals) and 250 social and community housing units dedicated to students. It will also feature a 75,000-square-foot cultural centre composed of a library, multifunctional rooms, and a 250-seat performance hall, which will be arranged around a public square centred on the future metro station. All gentle mobility paths of the project converge towards this square. Completion of this phase is expected to coincide with the opening of the new station, scheduled for 2031.

Currently, the site stands as a major heat island. The proposal aims to transform it into a people-centric urban hub that emphasizes environmental sustainability, promotes active mobility and fosters social diversity. The constructed areas will total about 5.8 million square feet.

“This is the largest mixed-use development in Greater Montreal in recent years,” said Daniel Arbour, vice-president, Major Projects, Groupe MACH. “Our vision is centred on human-scale urbanism, aiming to revive a declining urban landscape.”

The new neighbourhood will also entail a Quebec first: the creation of a residential complex through a limited partnership between Groupe MACH and Transgesco, which will leverage the assets of the Société de transport de Montréal. Two residential towers will directly link to the future blue line station at Langelier.

This partnership was possible through adoption of Bill 61 last December, which permits transport companies to partner with third parties for the construction of real estate projects and establish subsidiaries for this purpose.

What also makes the project unique is designing a mixed-use community of this scale with gentle mobility—particularly pedestrian mobility—as a guiding principle and closely integrating it with major infrastructure like public transportation.

Groupe MACH is promising to give residents direct access to public transit, no matter where they are located within the community. Adding a network of continuous pedestrian paths, secure bike lanes, and seamless routes linking shops, residences, and public and community spaces will permit individuals to traverse the entire area and reach the metro station within eight minutes on foot.

Two rental housing projects underway in Burnaby

Metro Vancouver, through its non-profit Metro Vancouver Housing, in partnership with the province, through BC Housing, and the City of Burnaby, has started construction on two family-oriented, non-market rental housing projects.

“Metro Vancouver Housing is one of the largest non-profit housing providers in the region, and I’m extremely proud of the work that we’re doing to help address the housing crisis and keep this region livable for current and future residents,” said Metro Vancouver board chair Mike Hurley. “Metro Vancouver Housing is a trusted housing provider that has demonstrated that it can deliver and operate high-quality homes for people of different ages, abilities, and income levels.”

The Steller, centrally located in the Edmonds Town Centre neighbourhood, will help address the critical need for non-market rental housing and affordable child care in Burnaby by providing 122 new homes for families and individuals. The Connection, which is located at 7786 & 7792 6th Street, will replace 30 aging townhouses with 174 apartments. Both projects will include new child care spaces.

Construction on the two rental housing projects is expected to be completed in 2027.

The City of Burnaby will lease, at a nominal rate, a city-owned lot at 7388 Southwynde Avenue to Metro Vancouver Housing so that The Steller can be built. The city has also supported the projects through streamlining development approvals and has provided an $8.3-million grant for The Steller and just over $12 million for The Connection to help offset development charges and fees and provide deeper affordability.

“The City of Burnaby is proud to partner on projects like this that deliver the housing our community needs,” said Burnaby city councillor Pietro Calendino. “These two projects will fill important gaps and as a city we are continuously seeking ways to make it easier to get these types of projects built.”

All homes at The Steller and The Connection will provide much-needed non-market housing, with rents set to serve a range of low- to moderate-income households. About half of the units will be family-oriented two- or three-bedroom homes, and all units will be accessible or meet universal design standards to support people with disabilities and seniors.

In April 2023, the province, through BC Housing, signed a memorandum of understanding with Metro Vancouver, through Metro Vancouver Housing, that will see approximately 2,000 below-market homes built over the next 10 years. The first phase is underway and will provide approximately 500 new homes on four sites supported by a provincial investment of $120 million. As part of this phase, nearly $30 million will be allocated to The Steller and almost $42 million to The Connection.

How automation is reshaping the AEC industry

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry has long grappled with the challenge of increasing productivity while managing complexity, regulatory pressure, and tightening budgets. In recent years, automation has evolved from being a helpful enhancement to a strategic necessity. Across the industry, firms are leveraging automation to streamline workflows, reduce risk, and free up their professionals to focus on higher-value work.

Smarter Workflows, Stronger Outcomes

According to Autodesk’s latest State of Design & Make report, AEC leaders are prioritizing automation and digital transformation, placing them alongside priorities like workforce development and cost management. These tools are no longer reserved for niche applications; they are increasingly central to how firms design, build and deliver projects.

The true power of automation lies in its ability to resolve inefficiencies. This doesn’t just mean speeding up tasks, it means improving collaboration, reducing errors and making complex processes more predictable. Ultimately automation empowers firms to use human expertise more strategically while improving project outcomes through data-driven decision-making.

From Repetitive to Strategic: Real-World Examples

In the field, automation takes many forms. One common example involves the repetitive task of generating PDF documentation from Revit models. With automation in place, these outputs can be scheduled to run during off-hours, ensuring they’re ready for review each morning—saving time and reducing interruptions during the workday.

Similarly, when firms undergo server migrations, manual file path updates and reconfigurations can bring projects to a halt. Automation compresses these time-consuming processes, transforming multi-day transitions into streamlined, low-touch operations.

Data integration is another growing priority. As construction becomes increasingly digital, maintaining consistent data across platforms like Autodesk Construction Cloud and Procore is critical. Automated integration helps bridge this gap—aligning field and office operations, minimizing data-entry errors, and accelerating timelines.

Supporting Growth with Scalable Solutions

Automation isn’t only for the largest firms. Whether it’s a custom utility to resolve a specific bottleneck or a broader implementation that integrates multiple workflows and platforms, today’s automation tools are highly scalable and accessible.

One compelling example comes from Advanced Drainage Systems (ADS), a manufacturer of engineered water management solutions. As demand grew, ADS partnered with our team to replace a legacy 2D tool with a modern web-based application. This new system automated design workflows for a significant portion of their product lines, reducing turnaround time from days to minutes while supporting ongoing innovation and global expansion.

The Path Forward

While the potential of automation is clear, the path to implementation can feel daunting. For AEC firms looking to get started, the key is to begin by identifying routine, time-consuming tasks that could be automated. Early wins build momentum and make it easier to scale automation strategies over time.

It’s important to recognize that automation isn’t about replacing professionals—it’s about supporting them. By taking on the repetitive and predictable aspects of project work, automation frees up skilled teams to focus on what they do best: solving problems creatively, innovating new solutions, and delivering high-quality results.

Firms that embrace this shift aren’t just boosting internal efficiency—they’re positioning themselves for sustained growth in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven market.

Joe Eichenseer is the building solutions division manager at IMAGINiT Technologies, where he helps architecture, engineering, and construction firms enhance their workflows and adopt advanced BIM solutions. With over 25 years of industry experience, Joe specializes in leading cross-functional teams and implementing custom automation tools that deliver measurable efficiency gains.

Cleaning during allergy season

Allergy season is in full swing, and cleaning can become a crucial part of maximizing the employee and guest experience in your building. As hay fever season progresses throughout the spring and summer, there are some cleaning practices that can exacerbate symptoms, rather than improving air quality and indoor conditions.

Indoor allergens are common, from dust mites in carpets and upholstery to mould spores in damp places, to pollen that can drift in through open windows, bay doors, or on people’s clothing. Developing cleaning strategies to address these allergens can help make your space more enjoyable and safer for guests and staff.

Cleaning schedules and protocols

Often when allergy season arrives, cleaners spend extra time sanitizing surfaces and vacuuming to try and contain dust and dirt, but this can actually stir up more pollen, potentially making symptoms worse. Develop a regular cleaning schedule, rather than targeting certain areas “as needed,” using a damp cloth to try and limit the dust and pollen being released into the air. Replace cloths regularly to ensure they remain an effective cleaning tool. Ensure that your schedule includes cleaning “out of sight” areas like inside lamp shades and around vents where dust and allergens can collect.

Also, opening windows and bay doors in the early morning and evening (during low pollen times) can help add ventilation to your interior, making the air cleaner and more breathable. Focusing on increasing IAQ and limiting mould growth with monitored humidity will also help minimize dust and allergens in the air.

Products and equipment

Using equipment that targets dust, like a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, can help enhance your cleaning efforts by trapping allergens, rather than releasing them into the air. Some cleaning chemicals can worsen allergy symptoms, so focusing on greener, fragrance- and chemical-free products can help minimize triggering allergy symptoms. Look for product certifications like ECOLOGO®, a Canadian certification given to products with verified reduced environmental impact, to avoid greenwashed products that will not help your efforts.

Indoor plants can also help improve IAQ and remove allergens from the air, absorbing airborne contaminants and removing common toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene while increasing humidity levels. Adding indoor plants can help make the environment more aesthetically pleasing, while helping to contribute to better air quality and reducing allergen triggers.

Cleaning with intent can help janitorial staff and maintenance managers provide a safer, more enjoyable, allergen-free environment.

Ontario asserts veto rights for school names

The Ontario government is asserting veto rights for school names through a proposed amendment to the provincial Education Act. That would come with guidelines for school boards and a requirement that they receive Ministerial approval before naming a new school or renaming an existing one.

The measure is part of package of legislation in the newly introduced Bill 33, which includes several amendments that underscore the Ontario government’s authority in administering various aspects of schools, colleges and universities, and child, youth and family services. The proposed amendments to the Education Act would impose new directives for school board oversight and operational compliance.

That includes the Minister of Education’s entitlement to approve, reject or set conditions related to school names. As proposed, school boards will have submit their choices for approval. If a name is rejected, existing schools must continue to be known under their current monikers, or new schools must temporarily be identified by their street addresses until an alternative name is approved.

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