Public Services and Procurement Canada
Status report on transformational and major Crown projects: 2018 to 2019 Departmental Results Report
Document navigation for "Status report on transformational and major Crown projects: 2018 to 2019 Departmental Results Report"
On this page
National Defence Headquarters Carling Campus Project
This project is to upgrade and refit the buildings at Carling Campus enabling the Department of National Defense (DND) to consolidate a significant portion of its accommodations, currently located in the downtown core, to a single, suburban crown-owned location by March 31, 2020.
Project outcomes
This project will ensure that National Defence will have secure location from which they can continue to communicate sensitive information with other international allies, and a new work location that will drive business transformation by introducing the workplace renewal initiative and opportunities for co-location of staff currently in multiple locations. It will provide office space to accommodate a 3 phased migration of up to 9,455 DND team members who will consolidate to the campus from other National Capital Area (NCA) leases with full migration expected to be completed by March 31, 2020.
This consolidation project will result in important savings and cost avoidance for Canadians. The purchase of the campus represents overall savings and cost avoidance of approximately $750 million over the status quo.
Industrial benefits
The Canadian construction industry in the Ottawa region (including small and medium enterprises) will benefit from this project as the service provider (Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions), through the construction manager (EllisDon), will solicit bidders for the work to be done at the campus using transparent processes.
Sponsoring department
Public Services and Procurement Canada
Contracting authority
- Public Services and Procurement Canada
- Department of National Defence
- Shared Services Canada
Participating departments
- Department of National Defence
- Shared Services Canada
Prime contractor
Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions (BGIS)
Major subcontractors
- Design: NORR (Ottawa)
- Construction manager: EllisDon (Ottawa)
Project phase
The project is in the delivery stage of National Project Management System and has received 4 expenditure authorities.
Major milestones
Expenditure authorities 1: December 12, 2013
- Pre-design, design and construction of phase I (buildings 6, 7, 8 and 9)
- Design of phase 2 (buildings 5, 3, 2 and pavilion)
- Pre-design of phase 3 (building 10)
Expenditure authorities 2: June 9, 2015
- Construction of phase 2
- Design of phase 3
Expenditure authorities 3: February 2018
- Construction of phase 3
Expenditure authorities 4: February 2019
- Reorganize the 9 previously approved expenditure authorities into one expenditure authority
- Change completion date from March 31, 2020 to March 31, 2021
Inception stage of National Project Management System
- Statement of requirement approval: April 2012
Identification stage of National Project Management System
- Preliminary project plan approval: March 2012
- Feasibility report approval: March 2012
- Approval document for preliminary project approval: December 2013
- Identification close out document: April 2014
Delivery stage of National Project Management System
- Project charter: December 2013
- Project management plan approval: April 2014
- Approval document for expenditure authorities for phase I: December 2013
- Approval document for expenditure authorities for phase 2: June 2015
- Approval document for expenditure authorities for phase 3: February 2018
- Completion (last move in): March 31, 2020
Close-out stage
Completion: March 31, 2021
Progress report and explanation of variances
The Carling Campus project phase 1 move-in is completed as of December 2017 and the remaining phases (phase 2 and phase 3) will be moved-in in 2019. The project close-out is to be completed by March 31, 2021.
One phase 2 building has been moved into and the remaining phase 2 and phase 3 buildings are all at various stages of refit and work is progressing as planned.
Long Term Vision and Plan for the Parliamentary Precinct
The Long Term Vision and Plan (LTVP) is delivered by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) on behalf of the parliamentary partners (Senate of Canada, House of Commons, Library of Parliament, and Parliamentary Protective Service), as well as the Office of the Prime Minister and the Privy Council Office. The LTVP is a complex strategy implemented through rolling programs of work that offer flexibility to respond to emerging priorities. It comprises multiple concurrent projects of varying sizes and duration, including large-scale heritage restorations, new construction projects, smaller fit-up and information-technology-related work, as well as planning initiatives.
First developed in 2001, and subsequently updated in 2006, the LTVP has made significant progress in addressing health and safety risks, and in modernizing the Parliamentary Precinct to meet the needs of a 21st century parliament, including providing modern information technology, multimedia, and security enhancements. This infrastructure investment is essential to maintaining the working heart of Canadian parliamentary democracy, and preserving its heritage for future generations of Canadians and visitors.
To accomplish this, the LTVP is implemented through the following 5 distinct programs:
- Major Capital Program
- Recapitalization Program
- Building Components and Connectivity Program
- Planning Program
- Security Infrastructure Program (previously known as the Campus Infrastructure Program)
The Major Capital Program focuses on the rehabilitation of major buildings in the Parliamentary Precinct, including the 2 remaining rehabilitation projects in the parliamentary triad (Centre Block and East Block), the 180 Wellington Building, and the Senate of Canada Building. In addition, this program also manages new construction projects such as the Visitor Welcome Centre complex that connects the parliamentary triad to improve visitor experience and enhance security, as well as support parliamentary operations.
The Recapitalization Program addresses projects in buildings that are occupied and operational but have not yet been fully rehabilitated. The projects are designed to preserve buildings, stop or reduce ongoing deterioration, respond to urgent building repair requirements, address health and safety issues, and reduce cost and complexity of future work. The Recapitalization Program is also responsible for the restoration and rehabilitation of the heritage Parliament Hill grounds.
The Building Components and Connectivity Program entails the modernization of the precinct's campus-wide communication and information technology.
The Planning Program focuses on the development of master plans to guide project planning and preparatory work for future projects, including the development of plans and cost estimates. It provides overall coordination between active projects to ensure they dovetail and contribute to broader objectives of the LTVP vision and guiding principles.
The Security Infrastructure Program (security, material handling, etc.) focuses on the implementation of security measures in the precinct.
Long Term Vision and Plan review
In 2018 to 2019, PSPC advanced the planning for the transformation of the precinct, into an integrated parliamentary campus. With the recent completion of the rehabilitation of the Senate of Canada Building (formerly known as the Government Conference Centre) and the West Block, and the construction of the Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1), the integrated parliamentary campus vision will be achieved through the restoration of the remaining 23 buildings in the precinct. This includes core buildings, such as the East Block, Confederation Building, Victoria Building, the Office of the Prime Minister and Privy Council Building (formerly the Langevin building) and Blackburn Building, as well as several aging and underutilized buildings along Sparks and Wellington streets.
PSPC developed a Campus Master Plan to advance the vision of an integrated campus. This Campus Master Plan will be leveraged by the department to ensure the LTVP reflects the government and parliamentary priorities. This will also build on and replace the 2006 LTVP, and will guide decision-making about the future growth, development, rehabilitation, and infrastructure of the integrated parliamentary campus. Looking forward, PSPC, the parliamentary partners, and stakeholder working groups will continue to work collaboratively to identify functional, flexible, integrated, and creative approaches to realize the full potential of the precinct campus and its important role in the nation's capital.
Project outcomes
The LTVP is a complex multi-decade strategy designed to address the following 3 priorities:
- restore and modernize aging and underutilized assets along Sparks and Wellington streets—this includes constructing new infill/buildings in a manner that respects heritage designations and converting the existing 100 Wellington building and site into a new space for Indigenous peoples
- leverage restored assets to create swing space, that is, interim space, to support the rehabilitation of core buildings such as East Block, Confederation, Victoria, Office of the Prime Minister and Privy Council Office, and Blackburn buildings
- use the restored assets to consolidate accommodations of Parliament, its administration, the Prime Minister's Office and the Privy Council Office
Through the delivery of the LTVP, broader benefits are also realized, including:
- a more efficient and accessible Parliament through modernized technology and communications systems
- progressive, sustainable, and energy efficient in buildings throughout the precinct
- significant direct and indirect job creation in small, medium and large companies across the country, as well Indigenous peoples
- a safe and secure environment for parliamentarians, staff and visitors
- leverage and advance research and technology in the restoration and management of complex heritage facilities through academic and private-sector partnerships
The benefits of a well-conceived and well-executed LTVP are substantial. When the work envisioned is complete, the Parliament buildings will stand not only as proud symbols of Canadian heritage, but also as the hub of a parliamentary system of government equipped to handle the demands of a growing, dynamic nation in a rapidly changing world.
Industrial benefits
The LTVP also provides a multitude of benefits to Canadians, including:
- creating and sustaining significant employment opportunities for Canadians, including youth, apprentices and Indigenous peoples
- ensuring the Parliamentary Precinct is more accessible, family-friendly and open to the public
- transforming the Parliamentary Precinct into a model of environmental sustainability
Job creation
The modernization and preservation of the Parliamentary Precinct provides Canadian businesses and individuals with the opportunity to play a unique role in our collective history, all while supporting diversity in both the industry, and its public service workforce.
Throughout the rehabilitation of the West Block, PSPC provided the opportunity for contractors to establish a masonry apprenticeship program. At the peak of the masonry rehabilitation apprenticeship program, over 200 masons were on site every day, including 62 apprentices, 18 of whom were women. This represented a record number of participants for a program of this nature in North America.
Indigenous partnerships
PSPC continues to look at ways to increase the number of meaningful economic opportunities for Indigenous businesses, employment and capacity building. For instance, the LTVP is supporting set-asides for Indigenous firms and creating jobs for small and medium enterprises across Canada, representing a broad cross section of the economy. This resulted in a substantial amount of the expenditures on the major projects tendered to and through Indigenous firms in 2018 to 2019. Moving forward, PSPC will continue to leverage economic opportunities for Indigenous business involvement by including provisions in all major contracts to subcontract at least 5% to Indigenous firms.
Using voluntarily set-asides through a procurement strategy for Indigenous business, PSPC has awarded over $15 million in work for Indigenous firms since 2014 to 2015. All recently completed major projects have included the use of set-asides, providing for:
- a range of goods, including artisanal millwork and furniture for the parliamentary offices, the new Cabinet Room in the West Block, and committee rooms
- an array of services such as environmental engineering services for the completed Wellington Building and for future project management support services and construction management services for the campus
Youth and innovation
In restoring and modernizing the Parliamentary Precinct, PSPC has established partnerships with Canadian universities and colleges, including the universities of Alberta, Calgary, Carleton, Manitoba, and Montréal. These partnerships are enabling PSPC to leverage unique research capacity and expertise to strengthen the 19th-century heritage buildings to meet the needs of 21st century users and building codes. Partnerships are also providing multiple benefits for government, universities and students, and creating opportunities for hundreds of students to hone their skills and develop the experience they need to succeed.
Over the past year, PSPC has also directly hired 91 students, 33% more than the previous year, in various areas in support of the delivery of the LTVP.
The department is now using 3D imaging to improve the design, construction and operations of the Parliament buildings, and technology, such as 3D printing and robotic stone cutting, to restore them. The department is also working with the University of Guelph to propagate the American elm tree, previously located in the pleasure grounds on Parliament Hill, and provide genetic samples to support the university's Elm Recovery Project. The measures taken, in collaboration with the University of Guelph, will enable the legacy of this historic parliamentary tree to live on.
Environmental sustainability
Through the LTVP, PSPC is reducing the government's carbon footprint and transforming the precinct into a model of environmental sustainability that honours and protects its unique cultural heritage. Greenhouse gas reduction in the precinct remains at 56%, and PSPC is on track to reduce emissions by 80% by 2030, and attain carbon neutrality by 2050. PSPC is also diverting over 90% of demolition materials from landfills. The final waste diversion rate for the West Block and the Senate of Canada building is 93%.
Energy efficient measures that PSPC has incorporated into buildings include: capturing and reusing heat, green roofs, solar hot water panels, water-saving plumbing systems, new energy efficient windows, and energy saving electrical systems. Other measures include the installation of beehives on the roof of the Senate of Canada Building and green walls within renovated buildings.
In 2018 to 2019, the Parliamentary Precinct LTVP launched and completed a number key sustainability initiatives, including:
- a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment to understand the effects of extreme weather events on the Parliamentary Precinct infrastructure (the results of the study will provide engineering and operational recommendations to increase the portfolio's resilience to climate change)
- an Environmental Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan for the Parliamentary Precinct which addresses the unique characteristics of the precinct's infrastructure
- collaboration with Natural Resources Canada and the National Research Council to develop sustainable design principles for new construction projects in the Parliamentary Precinct
- a number of reports to inform decision-making on future projects and support improved conservation of heritage features
Universal accessibility
The Parliamentary Precinct is also a model for accessibility with the site and buildings more accessible, family-friendly and open to the public. New and restored buildings throughout the precinct, including the West Block, Senate of Canada Building, and the first phase of the Visitor's Welcome Centre, have been designed and built to meet and in many cases exceed buildings codes. Some of these measures include:
- Hearing
- Availability of hearing loops in committee rooms and the Chambers, as well as the use of voice floor indicators in elevators, and sign interpretation services.
- Mobility
- Barrier-free access has been created in all public areas, including into the Chambers, public galleries, offices, meeting places, washrooms, and corridors. Expanded accessible seating in the Chambers has also been added along with power assisted door openers and at elevators sized to accommodate a stretcher or a power-assisted wheelchair.
- Visual
- Tactile and braille signage, as well as stairs with contrasting edge strips.
To promote a more open and transparent parliament that is accessible to all Canadians, buildings have been modified to include enhanced broadcast capabilities and simultaneous translation for other languages (for example, Indigenous languages). Furthermore, buildings now include adult change table readiness; accessible changing stations; accessible drinking fountains; daycare, family, spouse and meditation/prayer rooms; and gender-neutral washrooms to reflect the modern needs of building users.
In 2018 to 2019, PSPC conducted an accessibility review in order to develop an accessibility action plan for the Parliamentary Precinct, including putting in place an external advisory panel to provide advice throughout the development of the plan.
Security
In recent years, PSPC has implemented additional measures in the precinct that balance security with the need to ensure access for Canadians to Parliament Hill. The Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1), a newly constructed modern, multi-level underground facility helps maintain a balance between openness and security on Parliament Hill by acting as the principal entrance to Parliament during the rehabilitation of Centre Block. The structure provides enhanced secure access for parliamentarians and staff, and visitor screening outside the footprint of the main Parliament buildings. This feature improves the visitor experience to one of Canada's most important heritage sites and popular tourist attraction.
Sponsoring department
Public Services and Procurement Canada
Contracting authority
Public Services and Procurement Canada
Participating departments and agencies
The National Capital Commission, the Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Parliamentary partners
- Senate of Canada
- House of Commons
- Library of Parliament
- Parliamentary Protective Service
Prime contractor
- West Block rehabilitation
- ARCOP/FGM Architects, Montréal, Quebec
- Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1)
- IBI Group Inc., Ottawa, Ontario and Moriyama & Teshima Architects, Toronto, Ontario
- Senate of Canada Building rehabilitation
- Diamond and Schmitt Architects Incorporated and KWC Architects Inc., Ottawa, Ontario
- East Block rehabilitation phase 1
- ARCOP Group/DFS Architects in joint venture, Montréal, Quebec
- Centre Block rehabilitation
- Centrus, a joint venture of: WSP Canada Inc, HOK Inc., HOK Architects Corporation, Architecture49 Inc, WSP UK Limited, Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc., HOK International Limited, Ottawa, Ontario
Major subcontractors
- West Block rehabilitation
- Construction manager: PCL Constructors Canada Inc., Edmonton, Alberta
- Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1) construction
- Construction manager: PCL Constructors Canada Inc., Edmonton, Alberta
- Senate of Canada Building rehabilitation
- Construction manager: PCL Constructors Canada Inc., Edmonton, Alberta
- East Block rehabilitation phase 1
- Construction manager: Pomerleau Inc., Ottawa, Ontario
- Centre Block rehabilitation
- Construction manager: PCL-EllisDon in joint venture, Ottawa, Ontario
Project phase
The LTVP encompasses numerous and varied individual major capital, recapitalization, building components and connectivity, and planning projects taking place simultaneously at different project phases at any one time. The major Crown projects are described below.
West Block rehabilitation
The West Block is the oldest building of the Parliamentary triad on Parliament Hill. This 4-story building was built in 3 phases between 1859 and 1909.
After a 7-year rehabilitation project, the beautifully restored and modernized West Block was officially transferred to the House of Commons on November 1, 2018, in time for the winter 2019 parliamentary sitting. Final work focused on completing the installation of electrical, information technology, multimedia and interior finishes.
The rehabilitation of the West Block was a key element of the LTVP, as the rehabilitated building houses interim legislative functions for the House of Commons during the rehabilitation of the Centre Block. Rehabilitation work began in 2011 with the aim to restore and modernize the West Block and address health and safety risks to meet the needs of a 21st century parliament. This included the structural restoration, seismic reinforcement and upgrading of all building systems to current standards. PSPC also leveraged the rehabilitation project to position Canada as a leader in the rehabilitation of heritage buildings, by reducing the precinct's environmental footprint, maintaining a balance between openness and security, and making an accessible and inclusive environment for parliamentarians, staff, and, visitors.
Following the rehabilitation of the Centre Block, the West Block will revert to a parliamentary building, containing office suites for members of parliament and their staff, committee rooms and associated support space.
Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1)
The Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1) is the first new building to be built on the Hill in over 100 years. The building was designed to perfectly blend with the historical structures and natural surroundings of Parliament Hill, and provides enhanced secure access for parliamentarians and staff, as well as visitor screening outside the footprint of the main Parliament building, shipping and receiving for the West Block and a utility pathway between adjacent buildings. The building also improves the visitor experience to one of Canada's most important heritage sites and popular tourist attractions.
In 2018 to 2019, PSPC completed the construction of the first phase of the Visitor Welcome Centre in time for the winter 2019 parliamentary sitting. Final work focused on installation of mechanical and electrical systems, interior finishes and furniture.
Senate of Canada building rehabilitation
Located outside Parliament Hill, the Senate of Canada Building (formerly known as the Government Conference Centre) occupies a prominent location in downtown Ottawa, along the Rideau Canal.
After a 4-year rehabilitation project, the beautifully restored and modernized Senate of Canada Building was officially transferred to the Senate of Canada in December 2018. Senate functions historically located in the Centre Block were relocated to the Senate of Canada Building, to accommodate the Senate Chamber, 3 committee rooms, and Parliamentary Office units for leadership and legislative functions for the duration of the Centre Block rehabilitation.
The rehabilitation of the building included significant interior renovations, such as the full replacement of key building systems to modern efficient mechanical, electrical and life-safety systems, and to remove hazardous substances. In addition to meeting the interim accommodation needs of the Senate, the rehabilitation of this building will help meet the long-term business needs of PSPC after the Senate returns to the Centre Block.
Final work focused on finishing the east addition of the building, the Chamber and committee rooms, information technology infrastructure, and interior finishes (such as drywall, mouldings, plaster ceilings, etc.).
East Block rehabilitation (phase 1)
The East Block on Parliament Hill was built in 2 major campaign periods. The first portion was completed in 1865, which included the main east and south wings (referred to as the 1867 Wing). Subsequently, in 1910, a second wing was added to the east to enclose the courtyard.
In 2018 to 2019, PSPC continued advancing the first phase of the East Block rehabilitation project. Rehabilitation work has started on 4 targeted areas to address the more pressing health and safety issues: the South West Tower, the South East entrance (Agricultural entrance), the South entrance and the Governor General's entrance. Work being completed to rehabilitate these areas included seismic upgrades, masonry rehabilitation, restoration of heritage stained glass, replacement of windows, exterior doors, and some of the copper roof, and the conservation of ornamental ironwork.
In addition, PSPC has continued to implement an enhanced maintenance program to provide targeted maintenance activities, and an ongoing screening and investigation program to identify urgent issues that need to be addressed before the building's full rehabilitation for which early planning activities continued this year. Examples of these activities include the development of a functional program, as well as technical and feasibility studies.
As part of the second phase, the department is assessing options for the remaining exterior rehabilitation and for advancing the full interior rehabilitation of the East Block. The full rehabilitation will address the remaining exterior work not addressed in the first phase, including the 1910 Wing, completing the seismic reinforcement program for the entire building, and replacing interior building systems with modern systems. The building will also be upgraded to meet the modern building standards and functional requirements to meet the accommodation needs of the Senate of Canada.
Centre Block rehabilitation
Built between 1916 and 1927, the Centre Block is one of Canada's most important national symbols. An icon of Canadian democracy, the Centre Block is home to the Senate of Canada, the House of Commons, and the Library of Parliament. The building is occupied by the Parliamentary Protective Service, the Privy Council Office and by PSPC for building maintenance.
The beautifully restored and modernized West Block, the Senate of Canada Building and Visitor Welcome Centre phase 1 were officially transferred to parliamentarians in fall 2018, achieving a key mandate commitment of moving parliamentary operations from the Centre Block. In 2018 to 2019, PSPC worked collaboratively with Parliament to ensure a seamless and phased transition of parliamentary operations into the interim spaces, and completed the move in time for the January 2019 parliamentary session.
Decommissioning activities are now underway in the Centre Block, and PSPC is completing assessments of the building's condition. This involves carefully opening up the walls and floors to better understand the building's condition, working with parliamentarians to clearly define the functions and requirements of a modern Centre Block, and developing an informed concept (or schematic design). Rehabilitation will include structural and seismic reinforcements, security enhancements, and completely new building systems that will extend the lifecycle of the building well into the 21st century. A series of enabling projects is also underway to address work that needs to occur before the start of major construction activities.
100 Wellington: A space for Indigenous peoples
PSPC is leveraging the delivery of the LTVP to advance efforts in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. In 2018 to 2019, the department continued to work with Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNA), national Indigenous organizations, and the Algonquin Nation to transform the former United States Embassy located at 100 Wellington into a national space for Indigenous peoples.
Together with Indigenous partners, PSPC is also working with CIRNA to transform the 100 Wellington building into an Indigenous Peoples' Space. The Minister responsible for CIRNA is the federal lead on the development of the vision for the space, while the Minister responsible for PSPC is accountable for the rehabilitation of the building. The building has been converted into a temporary exhibition, meeting and press space for Indigenous peoples for use in the next 2.5 years, until major construction activities begin for the final long-term design. Collaboration is ongoing to refine the vision for the permanent space, and to establish an Indigenous-led not for profit organization to operate the space in the short and long term.
The Indigenous Peoples' Space project represents a unique and historic opportunity to promote reconciliation and a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples, all while enhancing Indigenous participation in the Parliamentary Precinct.
Major milestones
Long Term Vision and Plan
Since the completion of the Library of Parliament in 2006, PSPC has delivered 24 major projects in the precinct, all on time and on budget. Since 2015, 5 major projects have been completed: the Sir John A. Macdonald and Wellington Buildings, the West Block, the Senate of Canada Building (formerly known as the Government Conference Centre), and the new Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1). The following table outlines the projects and their respective target and final completion dates.
LTVP project | Target completion | Final completion |
---|---|---|
Perimeter security project | 2013 | 2013 |
East Block 1867 Wing—Northwest towers | 2013 | 2013 |
Sir John A. Macdonald Building rehabilitation | 2015 | 2015 |
Wellington Building rehabilitation | 2016 | 2016 |
West Block rehabilitation | 2018 | 2018 |
Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1) | 2018 | 2018 |
Senate of Canada Building | 2018 | 2018 |
West Block Building rehabilitation
- prime design consultant engaged: 1995
- members of parliament vacated West Block: January 2011
- major construction started: February 2011
- construction manager engaged: June 2011
- ready for occupancy: fall 2018
Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1)
- prime design consultant engaged: February 2013
- major construction started: 2014
- ready for utilization: fall 2018
Senate of Canada Building rehabilitation
- prime design consultant engaged: 2014
- construction manager engaged: 2014
- major construction started: 2014
- ready for occupancy: fall 2018
East Block rehabilitation (phase 1)
- prime design consultant engaged: 2014
- construction manager engaged: 2015
- major construction started: 2016
- major construction completion: 2022
Centre Block rehabilitation
- construction manager and prime design consultant engaged: 2017
- enabling projects completion: 2019
- schematic design completion: 2020
- design development completion: 2021
- major construction start: 2019
- construction (substantial) completion: to be determined
- ready for utilization: to be determined
Progress report and explanation of variances
Variances of the budget
West Block rehabilitation
The total project cost within the approved budget was $862.9 million [excluding goods and services tax (GST)/harmonized sales tax (HST)], and the project was completed within this amount.
Visitor Welcome Centre (phase 1)
The total project cost within the approved budget was $129.87 million (excluding HST), and the project was completed within this amount.
Senate of Canada Building rehabilitation
The total project cost within the approved budget was $219.8 million (excluding HST), and the project was completed within this amount.
East Block rehabilitation (phase 1)
The total project cost remains within the approved budget of $80.6 million (excluding HST).
Centre Block program
Expenditure authority at an indicative cost estimate of $761.6 million (excluding HST) has been approved to execute enabling projects, detailed investigation programs to inform schematic design, and refine cost and scheduling and develop the decommissioning strategy to empty the Centre Block. It is anticipated that a more substantial cost estimate and schedule will be further realized in 2019.
Variances of the major milestones
There are currently no variances to the major milestones. An active management approach has been instituted to avoid project delays, and lessons learned have been captured and are being applied to subsequent projects in the LTVP Program.
Long Term Vision and Plan for investments in federal science
Federal science and research plays a key role in the lives of Canadians and is essential to achieving the Government of Canada's mandate of supporting the health, security and well-being of Canadians and advancing Canada's economic agenda. Investments in federal science are being implemented leveraging a whole-of-government approach which aims to build a stronger and more collaborative federal science and technology ecosystem, all while addressing the aging federal science infrastructure which has reached a critical state. Guided by a long term vision and plan, the initiative will revitalize federal science by building a national network of modern, multipurpose, federal science and technology laboratories. This will support evidence-based decision-making, promote collaboration with partners, and foster innovation in core program delivery, including regulatory responsibilities. This initiative creates the opportunity to engage with Canada's science landscape, build strong relationships with academic institutions as well as the private sector, and is expected to create over 20,000 jobs (person-years of employment) in its first phase in a broad footprint of the Canadian economy from architecture and engineering, to manufacturing, trades and construction.
These investments will enable federal scientists to conduct innovative and collaborative science in 21st century facilities across Canada. Implementation will take place in phases, with phase 1 addressing facilities in the NCA, Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic, and Western Canada regions.
The initiative is a joint undertaking by ministers responsible for science and for federal infrastructure, in partnership with science-based departments and agencies (science partners). The minister responsible for PSPC as well as Shared Services Canada is accountable for the infrastructure and information management and technology (IM/IT) aspects of this initiative.
In phase 1, the program serves 13 federal science-based departments and agencies, therefore significant horizontal engagement is required on an ongoing basis. Science departments and agencies have identified complimentary outcomes that are the basis for phase 1 infrastructure projects. The initiative partners have also identified 5 science clusters that are focused on opportunities to strengthen their respective research agendas, through enhanced interdisciplinary work and shared facilities where appropriate:
- Atlantic Science Enterprise Centre will undertakescience focused on improving sustainability of Atlantic fresh and saltwater resources; monitoring and protecting the health of coastal ecosystems of the Gulf St. Lawrence/Atlantic Ocean regions (Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, National Research Council)
- regulatory security science will provide seamless integration of complementary government science capabilities to protect Canada's people, animals, and plants, as well as advance innovation and economic growth (Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Agriculture and Agri-food Canada, Health Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada, National Research Council, Canada Border Services Agency)
- TerraCanada will undertake science focused on advancing technology solutions to increase the environmental competitiveness of the Canadian resources sector. It will also focus on advancing Canada's Low Carbon Economy to help Canada meet emission reduction targets and grow the clean energy and manufacturing sectors, as well as build capacity to protect Canadians from hazards of human origin, such as air contamination, radiation exposure, fire, and unsafe consumer products (National Research Council, Natural Resources Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Health Canada, Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission)
- transportation safety and technology science will focus on addressing and reducing transportation safety risks for Canadians; creating new technologies to improve safety certification processes, as well as enhancing transportation safety (Transportation Safety Board of Canada, National Research Council)
- cultural heritage science will support innovative heritage conservation, focused on preserving cultural heritage for future generations, facilitating access to collections, as well as identifying and addressing emerging risks to cultural heritage (Parks Canada, Canadian Heritage)
Project outcomes
The horizontal investments in federal science will create a world-class, national network of federal laboratories to support evidence-based decision-making, collaborative scientific discovery research with partners, and innovation in core program delivery across the science spectrum, including regulatory responsibilities by:
- creating a world-class national network of federal, leading edge, collaborative, accessible and sustainable facilities
- promoting collaboration via equipment sharing and improving access to common tools through a more streamlined procurement of major equipment
- mitigating policy barriers that inhibit internal and external collaboration necessary to the modern science and technology enterprise
- upgrading IM and IT systems, policies, and processes to ensure a secure environment that enables effective collaboration
- managing prudently science and technology asset portfolio
By addressing the science infrastructure, this initiative will also enable PSPC to meet its regulatory responsibilities pertaining to real property and infrastructure, including accessibility and sustainability.
Industrial benefits
These investments in federal science will provide a multitude of benefits for Canadians, ranging from enabling science excellence, to providing greater opportunities for talent, youth, minorities and women, while leveraging Canadian laboratories that are a model of sustainability and accessibility.
Science excellence
Federal infrastructure is a critical enabler of federal science excellence. Renewed, modern 21st century laboratory infrastructure, supported by robust and tailored IM/IT will support evidence-based decision-making and allow scientists to identify innovative solutions to address environmental and health issues, as well as invigorate Canada's research capabilities. This in turn will accelerate scientific breakthroughs and discoveries that will ultimately benefit Canadians.
A Diverse and inclusive talent pool
Enabling science excellence requires talented and innovative individuals who can find solutions, leveraging science to address the challenges facing Canadian society. State-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to collaborate with scientific leaders will help Canada recruit and retain high-caliber talent. Attracting and retaining a talented, diverse, and inclusive cadre of scientists, including early-career and international scientists, will build Canada's reputation as country of scientific innovation.
Gender and diversity
Positive indirect impacts for diverse groups of people are anticipated in the federal science and technology community as federal science sets standards for equal opportunity and treatment. Women comprise more than half of the federal scientific and professional occupational groups, even though they are under-represented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics in the broader Canadian labour force. The federal science community also includes representation of visible minorities, Indigenous peoples and those with disabilities that is reflective of the Canadian population. Furthermore, amongst all federal occupational categories, the visible minority population is the highest in the science community.
Opportunities for youth
Projects will create unique opportunities for Canada's youth. This initiative will offer opportunities for students to contribute to delivery of the program and build industry capacity. Student programming will be leveraged over the course of this initiative program of work through partnerships with universities to leverage innovative practices and deliver the program more efficiently.
Environmental sustainability
Environmental responsibility is a key principle of this horizontal initiative. Through renewed science laboratories, PSPC will demonstrate leadership in low-carbon, resilient, and green operations, with new facilities designed to meet federal standards for environmental sustainability. By reducing the overall footprint of federal science facilities and focusing on making new buildings environmentally sustainable, climate resilient, and targeting carbon neutral, the government will lead by example and support its commitments under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.
Accessibility
Investments in federal science will provide a significant opportunity to create work spaces and infrastructure that ensure accessibility and inclusion by accounting for these factors in the early design and planning stages. These investments will also pilot new approaches for design and implementation, through the inclusion of local community representatives for the development of accessibility standards in building design. Flexible and adaptable space will ensure that scientists can respond quickly to shifting priorities and stay at the cutting edge of their field. Specific and additional commitments to accessibility will set the bar higher for all Canadian workplaces through practices exercised in the initiative's spaces. From accessible laboratories to gender-neutral washrooms, the built infrastructure will create an environment from the ground up that is supportive of diversity and inclusion.
Sponsoring department
Public Services and Procurement Canada
Contracting authority
Public Services and Procurement Canada
Participating departments
- Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
- Shared Services Canada
- Agriculture and Agri-food Canada
- Canadian Heritage
- Environment and Climate Change Canada
- Parks Canada
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada
- Health Canada
- Public Health Agency of Canada
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency
- National Research Council of Canada
- Transportation Safety Board of Canada
- Natural Resources Canada
- Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
- Canada Border Services Agency
Prime contractor
Not applicable
Major subcontractors
Not applicable
Project phase
Phase 1 is a critical first step to strengthening the science ecosystem in Canada and enabling Canadian scientists and researchers to excel in their respective fields by working hand-in-hand with them to build new and renewed facilities that support collaboration and evidence-based decision-making. It is about leveraging lessons learned and an established concept of collaboration to achieve science and research objectives.
In 2018, Cabinet approved the launch and delivery of a program of work comprising phase 1, most notably the federal laboratory renewal, which will focus on renewing aging critical science infrastructure and building new laboratories in the National Capital Region, as well as Ontario, Quebec and the Western Region.
Cabinet also approved 5 science priority areas, including security, regulation, health and safety, resource management, transportation and heritage conservation to be addressed over the 5 years of phase 1. Science plans have been completed for each of the science clusters, and outline their vision and desired outcomes.
Key priorities for phase 1
- Implement an evergreen governance that enables the effective management of this horizontal initiative
- Develop science plans for each of the 5 science cluster for phase 1 projects, including site selection through collaborative science planning
- Develop a new approach to the procurement and management of equipment to optimize utilization and support leading edge science
- Develop custodianship and operating models for science assets involved in phase 1, as well as the framework for a portfolio strategy for the Federal Science Asset Class
- the portfolio strategy will inform subsequent plans and strategies, including the implementation of a data management system for key information required to set and monitor performance indicators
- Deliver projects to address the critical elements of the science and technology infrastructure
Major milestones
In November 2018, Cabinet approved the launch and delivery of the phase 1 program of work.
This initiative serves all federal science-based departments and agencies. Successful implementation of phase 1 requires horizontal engagement with these organizations, as well as central agencies and Shared Services Canada, on an ongoing basis.
The initiative is guided by a LTVP, with the following major elements to be completed during the first phase of the plan through 2023.
Site selection
The development of a transparent evidenced-based site selection methodology in collaboration with the science clusters in order to ensure that science and the scientific community are primary drivers of any decision made for new facilities.
Design and procurement
PSPC will tender and award an architectural and engineering services contract for laboratory design. The contractor will develop a laboratory standards catalogue, functional programming, and concept designs for the renewal of the critical science infrastructure elements.
PSPC will tender and award regional based architectural and engineering services and construction management contracts to design and build the smaller cluster facilities located in Ontario and the Western Region. The regional clustered approach creates a scale of economy that will improve quality and supports a streamlined and efficient approach to delivery in these areas while creating new opportunities for more firms to participate in this initiative.
Project delivery
Advance the planning, design and delivery of 11 science infrastructure projects with many being completed by 2023.
Effective life-cycle management of Canada's renewed federal science infrastructure
In order to best support the effective life-cycle management of new and renewed federal science infrastructure and the long-term viability of these important assets, PSPC is working with the Treasury Board Secretariat on 2 key initiatives:
- in collaboration with science-based departments and agencies, develop a new custodianship model and associated operating framework to fund and operate the facilities
- establish a federal science and technology portfolio strategy in order to generate the greatest value possible from these facilities
- the strategy will be implemented in phase 1, and will form the basis of a planned update to Cabinet
Progress report and explanation of variances
Progress report
- PSPC implemented an evergreen governance that enables the effective management of this horizontal initiative
- Cabinet approved the science plans for each of the 5 science cluster for phase 1 projects.
- PSPC has commenced phase 1 activities, which focus on addressing the infrastructure elements that are in the most critical condition including:
- the development of comprehensive site selection methodology was developed in collaboration with the science clusters in order to ensure that science and the scientific community are primary drivers of any decision made for new facilities (a list of potential sites has been identified and are currently being assessed against science, real-property and socio-economic impacts)
- PSPC also tendered the architectural and engineering services contract for laboratory design and the contractor will develop a laboratory standards catalogue, functional programming, and concept designs for the renewal of the critical science infrastructure elements
Variances of the major milestones
There are currently no variances to the major milestones.
Document navigation for "Status report on transformational and major Crown projects: 2018 to 2019 Departmental Results Report"
- Date modified: