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2020 National Model Codes now available

The 2020 National Model Codes have finally been released. The updated set of model construction codes aim to make Canadian homes and buildings safer and more accessible, while responding to climate change. Codes included in the March 2022 release include the National Building Code of Canada 2020, the National Fire Code of Canada 2020, the National Plumbing Code of Canada 2020, and the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2020.

“These new codes are more reflective of the current world we live in,” said Kevin Griffiths, chair of the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC). “Thanks to these updates, it will be easier for Canadians with accessibility considerations to navigate different spaces; large farm buildings are now included in the codes to reflect the evolving agricultural sector; and energy performance levels have been introduced to make buildings more energy efficient.”

The 2020 codes include nearly 400 changes developed through an open, transparent, and consensus-based process that included expert volunteers from across Canada. Updates follow a structured fiveyear cycle.

Among the current changes to the codes are revised instructions about safety glazing in windows and doors for schools; requirements impacting evaporative equipment and drain pans to minimize the growth and transmission of bacteria; adjustments to the minimum dimensions of building elements to accommodate people using a wider variety of mobility devices; and the introduction of encapsulated mass timber construction to allow for the construction of wood buildings up to 12 storeys tall.

As part of the development process, the public was given an opportunity to review and comment on all proposed changes before the codes were finalized. Current provincial and territorial building, fire, plumbing and energy regulations will remain in effect until the 2020 codes are adopted, with or without modifications, by the provincial or territorial authorities having jurisdiction.

The 2020 codes are available through the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) publications archive in a free electronic format for download. To purchase the publications in print format, an order can be placed online through the NRC’s virtual store.

Montreal Molson site redevelopment to showcase heritagebuilding

Preliminary designs have been unveiled by the consortium heading up the redevelopment project of the former Molson Brewery site in Montreal. Selection Group, Montoni and Fonds immobilier de solidarite FTQ revealed plans to make the legacy and heritage of the Ilot des Voltigeurs, the oldest part of the site, the central theme of the first phase of the nearly 6-million-squarefoot historic mixed-use project.

Several iconic elements of the former brewery, including the clock, the Molson sign, and the chimney, as well as the new Molson Coors’ administrative offices, will be an integral part of the development concept.

The consortium says that it aims to create a dynamic, innovative and diversified living environment while ensuring the sustainability of the existing Ilot des Voltigeurs built environment.

The proposed concept seeks to open the site to the surrounding areas and create views toward the St. Lawrence River while preserving a cascading silhouette around the highest point, the iconic Molson Tower.

To generate vibrant, mixed-use activity, the consortium proposes to create quality pedestrian-friendly spaces that will be accessible to all Montrealers, and to incorporate heritage and archeological remnants.

Since acquiring the site in 2019, the consortium has conducted a thorough analysis of the land, guided by the ambition to revive the identity of the former Molson Brewery’s original site, the Ilot des Voltigeurs, along with its multiple historical strata, as well as enhance the Montreal industrial heritage site.

According to the consortium, the entire site of the former brewery has potential to incorporate up to 6,000 residential units as well as more than 1 million square feet of commercial and office space. Plans would also include a civic area incorporating the lands belonging to the Societe d’habitation et de developpement de Montreal.

“Selection Group is honoured to be contributing to the design of a truly innovative living environment surrounding this Quebec industrial gem by building nearly 6,000 residential units,” stated Real Bouclin, founding president and CEO of Selection Group. “We want to give Montrealers a vibrant full-service neighbourhood that combines quality of life and environmental consciousness. We will ensure that this project will be exemplary and incorporates the unique characteristics of Montreal and Molson’s rich history.”

To assist with the planning process, the consortium worked with several experts, including the urban planning consultancy BC2, Sid Lee Architecture, the archeology firm Arkeos and architect Luce Lafontaine, a consultant in the conservation of built heritage, and consulted close to 50 organizations in the area to identify the community’s needs and concerns.

Over the past two years each Ilot des Voltigeurs building was assessed on various heritage criteria, including historical, architectural, social and usage values.

The redevelopment concept was presented to the Ville-Marie borough’s urban planning advisory committee last month, receiving a positive response, so the consortium is continuing its efforts aimed at developing the final project for the entire site.

To prepare the area and make room for public spaces on the ground, the silos on the site will be taken down over the coming weeks. Two of them, including the oldest one that dates back to 1973, will be preserved and featured in the project.

PCL completes long-term care home build in 13 months

Lakeridge Health, Infrastructure Ontario and PCL Construction have celebrated a culmination of milestone events for Lakeridge Gardens, a new long-term care home located next to Ajax Pickering Hospital in Ajax, Ont.

On March 2, the three entities marked the substantial performance milestone. A major accomplishment, substantial performance signifies the completion of all major construction and that the home’s keys have been handed over to Lakeridge Health to operate.

Just last month, Lakeridge Health unveiled the home’s name, Lakeridge Gardens, after completing a community consultation that included feedback and perspectives from over 600 Durham Region residents.

“Lakeridge Gardens’ progress over the last year, and especially in the last few weeks, has been a remarkable achievement,” said Cynthia Davis, president and CEO of Lakeridge Health.

“Collaboration is key to success on any project, but the outcomes achieved on the Lakeridge Health Accelerated Build project truly personify what strong partnerships can achieve,” said Marc Pascoli, vice-president and district manager with PCL Constructors Canada Inc. “The successful outcome on this project is only possible thanks to the dedicated efforts of every individual who committed to the goal of delivering Ontario’s first accelerated build project in only 13 months, as promised.”

The project adds 320 long-term care beds to the Durham Region.

“We are deeply privileged to have worked with partners to create the accelerated build program in order to quickly deliver much needed long-term care infrastructure,” said Michael Lindsay, president and CEO of Infrastructure Ontario. “Through a range of accelerated measures such as modular construction, rapid procurement and the use of hospital lands, we have been able to successfully build this facility faster than the traditional timeline.”

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Canadian dealers among Bobcat’s best

Countdown to CONEXPO-CON/AGG has begun

Four Canadian companies were recognized as part of a group of 19 dealerships honoured for achievement during Bobcat’s 2022 North American Dealer Meeting. The dealerships, which will form the company’s 2022 Dealer Leadership Group were the highest-performing dealers based on a review process across Bobcat’s dealer network of more than 700 locations in the United States and Canada.

Canadian dealers making the grade included Manitoba’s Bobcat of Brandon,

Event organizers are promising construction pros a next-level experience when they arrive at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the CONEXPO-CON/AGG and International Fluid Power Exposition (IFPE), one year from now.

The largest construction trade show in North America, CONEXPO-CON/AGG will be held March 14-18, 2023, with IFPE co-locating during those dates to add the fluid power, power transmission and motion control industries to the mix. Both shows will take advantage of the recently added West Hall and adjacent Diamond Lot, as well as the Tesla-powered people mover, called the LVCC Loop.

“AEM and our show committees of industry leaders are working to take advantage of everything that has changed in Las Vegas to deliver a top-notch event delivering the latest innovations and best practices to help construction pros take their businesses and careers to the next level,” said Dana Wuesthoff, show director Ontario’s Bobcat of Brantford, Alberta’s Rentco Equipment, and Nor-Val Rentals from British Columbia.

“We are pleased to honour these dealerships for their excellent performance and commitment to exceeding customer expectations,” said Jeremy Holck, vice-president of sales for Doosan Bobcat North America.

“Our dealers continue to raise the bar for success and lead best practices in our industry, so this year we are honoring

of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023. “Between the West Hall and Diamond Lot bringing a lot of displays closer to the rest of the show as well as serving as a connector to the Festival Lot, and the LVCC Loop making it effortless to get across the entire Las Vegas Convention Center, it’s never been easier for attendees to see everything they want to learn about when they get there.”

The West Hall provides an additional 1.4 million square feet of indoor space, which CONEXPO-CON/AGG is using as a hub for earthmoving and materials handling displays, the largest of which include Case, K-Tec/Ashland, Hitachi and Hyundai.

“When you attend CONEXPO-CON/ AGG, you are able to see an item, touch it, sit in it, sometimes operate it and discuss more dealers than ever in the Bobcat Dealer Leadership Group.”

Representatives from the 19 dealerships will meet with Bobcat senior leadership throughout the year to provide insights and feedback as the voice of the company’s dealer network. To recognize and celebrate the achievements of the Dealer Leadership Group, Bobcat will also honour members at a dealer incentive trip to Hawaii later this year.

it with the engineers and manufacturers,” said Brian Dietz, of Bob Dietz & Sons, an excavating contractor.

Held every three years, CONEXPO-CON/ AGG offers attendees the opportunity to experience the newest equipment and products through demonstrations and industry-leading education, while making new professional connections.

For more information about the show, including how to register, visit https://www. conexpoconagg.com.