New concrete formula for long-lasting roads, bridges

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US researchers have developed an ultra high-performance concrete formula which is stronger and more durable than conventional versions

and could lead to roads and bridges that last longer and are cost effective. Ultra high-performance concrete, or UHPC, has been on the market for a while under a small handful of brand names, said researchers from the University of Michigan in the US. However, high prices have kept it out of widespread use, they said.

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Millennials and technology drive social responsibility trends

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The movement of business from charitable giving to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been part of the corporate landscape. However, in the last 10 years, there has been a move from businesses supporting good causes to initiating those causes themselves. This move from merely being philanthropic to a more action-oriented paradigm is happening in a variety of industries—from technology to clothing. “One-for-one” business programs have become a popular way to create social impact, whether it be about products or employee engagement.

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CDBI bulletin: Consultant certificate controversy: Are progress certificates binding?

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It is a common misconception that once a consultant has certified work completed by a contractor, the owner is bound to that certification and will be required to pay the amount certified in a timely manner regardless of the circumstances. While the older case law predominantly supports this position, and while the general premise still holds some merit, a deeper examination suggests that there are several instances in which an owner may be entitled to dispute its obligation to pay. Read more.

This NYC high-rise building cleans the air like trees do

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SoHo remains a super-trendy neighborhood in New York City, but a new high-rise in the neighborhood just might make the area smell a little sweeter. 570 Broome, designed by Turkish architect Tahir Demircioglu’s hot boutique architecture firm Builtd, is using a unique combination of two emerging technologies to constantly clean the air around the building — an attractive and welcome feature for a building that is located adjacent to the Holland Tunnel. Read more.

New from CDBI: Document 115: Unique aspects of design-build for owners

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One of the objectives of the CDBI is to recommend ‘best practices’ policies and procedures to support design-build utilization. It is therefore a priority for the Institute to develop a practice manual that provides guidance and recommendations on the successful delivery of design-build. Read more.

New government of Canada fund to help reduce climate change impacts and better protect Canadians against natural disasters

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Investing in disaster mitigation and adaptation infrastructure projects to strengthen communities against the effects of climate change is critical to protecting the lives and livelihoods of Canadians, promoting economic growth, and strengthening the middle class. Read more.

Three questions to ask when planning construction business succession

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In the story of a business, succession can be the most challenging chapter. Owners are often so consumed with growing their companies that they put off succession planning—but they do so to their own detriment. With a large number of baby boomers set to retire over the coming years, owners who are not prepared for succession will find themselves at a competitive disadvantage when it comes to transitioning their business. Read more.

Webinar: Supporting Women in Trades

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Across Canada, there is a renewed focus on how to engage women in skilled trades careers. At this webinar CAF-FCA will share data and insights about the current state of affairs among women in traditionally male-dominated trades. Learn how trades workplaces are faring when it comes to female inclusion and what resources can support efforts to engage women in skilled trades careers. Register now.

Release of the Building Construction Price Index program

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On May 23rd, Statistics Canada is launching an expanded building construction price index program.

A new price index for transit building construction will be added to the five existing non- residential building indexes, which include an office building, a warehouse, a shopping centre, a factory and a school. All of these indexes will be based on updated building models that reflect newer construction technologies and materials.

Coverage of building construction activity will also be expanded with the launch of new residential building construction price indexes. These will include an updated high-rise apartment building index, replacing the Apartment Building Construction Price Index, as well as new indexes for a single-detached house, a townhome and a low-rise apartment building.

Geographical coverage will expand from 7 to 11 census metropolitan areas for all non- residential and residential building construction price indexes, providing a more comprehensive picture of building construction activity across Canadian provinces.

The trade group level price indexes (e.g., mechanical, electrical, architectural and structural) for building construction will no longer be published on CANSIM, but will be available on request and at no charge.

More information will be available as of May 23 at http://www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p2SV.pl?Function=getSurvey&Id=470345. You may also contact Statistics Canada by phone at 1-800-263-1136, or by email at STATCAN.infostats- infostats.STATCAN@canada.ca.

Enhanced Welder Apprentice Training Initiative

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On June 5, the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency will be hosting an information session on the Enhance Welder Apprentice Training (EWAT) in our 3rd boardroom on 1256 Barrington Street in Halifax. Register now.