Hub of Activity

Despite ongoing challenges, B.C.’s construction industry is booming. From Prince George and Vernon to Squamish and Burnaby, building permit records are at all time highs.

In this issue, we take a special look at the District of Squamish where strong population growth is driving demand in housing, infrastructure and facilities. The area has several master-planned developments in different stages including Oceanfront Squamish by Matthews West, which is set to transform the waterfront dramatically with a park, homes, commercial and more. The district is also working hard to keep pace with a focus on critical public facilities to support the growing community.

Another hub of activity is further north in Prince George where construction companies are very busy, according to Nicole Bryant, CEO, Northern Regional Construction Association (NRCA). The latest stats show that the city issued record building permits in 2022 totalling $252 million — a roughly five per cent increase over 2021’s record-setting year.

Bryant, who took over the helm at NRCA last year, shares what the association is focusing on and some new initiatives that will improve member engagement including an awards gala in September.

On Vancouver Island, the fourth annual VICA Awards returned to an in-person celebration during the Vancouver Island Construction

Conference held in April. The winning projects were all complex and built during the global pandemic. Casman Projects earned the top prime contractor award for a project over $20 million. Building a condo over a theatre was a unique feat.

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Cheryl Mah Managing Editor