Construction has started on what will become Edmonton’s tallest tower and part of one of the largest mixed-use projects in Canada.

The 66-storey Stantec Tower is expected to rise 820 feet and open in two phases at the corner of 102nd Street and 103rd Avenue. Fall 2018 will see 28 storeys of office units, while 481 residential units will be completed by fall 2019.

The “superstructure,” also referred to as Stantec’s new headquarters, will consolidate more than 1,700 Stantec employees into one location in the heart of the ICE District—the city’s downtown revitalization zone. Stantec is handling the architecture and engineering elements, and will occupy 19 floors and close to 460,000 square feet. PwC Canada and Dentons Canada LLP are other future tenants.

“As this tower grows over the next year, we know it will change more than just the skyline,” said Bob Gomes, president and chief executive officer of Stantec. “It will be a major contributor to the revitalization of our downtown community, and we’re excited to bring our people together to be a part of this vibrant future.”

The development is earmarked for LEED Gold certification and will feature design elements, including a lobby that opens into the vibrant public plaza providing convenient access to Rogers Place and Ford Hall. ICE District will also be the future home of the Edmonton Oilers, JW Marriott Edmonton, condominiums, retail space, restaurants, nightlife and more.