At the recent Hamilton-Halton Construction Association (HHCA) 2025 Construction Forecast conference, held on January 30, discussions focused on the promising pipeline of regional public infrastructure projects, despite ongoing trade tensions and the looming threat of tariffs from the Trump administration.
One of the key highlights from the conference was the update on the Woodward wastewater upgrades project. Phase one of this large-scale initiative was completed last April, with Ball, Maple Reindeers, Alberici, and North American Construction all playing roles in executing the project under three separate contracts. Currently, phase two of the project is in the design phase, paving the way for future progress.
Despite the trade uncertainty caused by the potential for tariff impositions, HHCA members were reassured that significant investments are continuing to flow into the local infrastructure landscape. Regional public sector organizations, including Hamilton Water, the Halton Region capital projects division, and Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS), shared their plans for upcoming projects, which are expected to be tendered throughout 2025 and 2026.
Among the major projects set to move forward in the near term are the $2-billion reconstruction of Juravinski Hospital and the $445 million Phase 2 expansion of the Woodward wastewater treatment plant, which will include upgrades to the north secondary treatment plant. These projects are expected to provide substantial work for the region’s construction industry, offering ample opportunities for local contractors and firms.
Sue Ramsay, the general manager of the HHCA, acknowledged the anxiety within the sector created by the uncertainty surrounding potential tariffs. However, she emphasized the resilience of the construction industry, stating, “construction is resilient.” She reminded members that the role of the construction association is to assist with navigating these challenges by offering access to national resources, such as the Canadian Construction Association, and by providing educational programming designed to help members stay informed and adapt to changes in the industry.
Alongside concerns about tariffs, Ramsay pointed out that other pressing issues are on the horizon for the construction sector, particularly the upcoming reforms to the Construction Act. This piece of legislation, which will have a significant impact on the industry, has members closely monitoring developments and preparing for changes that may affect their operations.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding trade and legislation, Ramsay noted that opportunities for construction work in the Halton and Hamilton regions remain abundant. Public sector projects, particularly in municipalities, are set to keep the construction sector busy. With the province experiencing continued growth, there is an ongoing need for investment in both new infrastructure and the revitalization of existing infrastructure to keep up with the demands of a growing population.
In summary, while trade tensions and legislative reforms create challenges, the Hamilton-Halton region is brimming with major infrastructure projects that will keep the construction industry active and growing in the coming years. The focus is on building resilience, staying informed, and ensuring the community’s infrastructure needs are met as the region continues to develop.