SHCA | Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association
by SHCA SHCA

Saskatchewan Research Council Indigenous Action Plan builds on decades-long reputation of collaboration

An Indigenous Action Plan being set in motion by the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) aims to engage and advance the participation of Indigenous Peoples within the organization and communities across Saskatchewan. SRC is proud to launch a new Indigenous Action Plan that centers on Indigenous Peoples, communities and businesses to help achieve shared goals. Continuing to build trust and strong relationships with Indigenous communities is a hallmark of this plan.

“The Saskatchewan Research Council has a long history of collaboration with First Nations and Métis communities, spanning more than 40 years in areas such as ecological studies, student enrichment and job training opportunities, and longer-term initiatives including remediation of former mine and mill sites in northern Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for SRC Warren Kaeding said. “The new Indigenous Action Plan further builds upon these relationships to ensure continued Indigenous participation in Saskatchewan’s key economic sectors and growing workforce.”

SRC’s Indigenous Action Plan has been built to align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) Call to Action 92 and will be lifted by four integral pillars: Employment, Leadership, Indigenous Community Relationships and Business Development.

“Continuing to build trust and strong relationships with Indigenous communities is a hallmark of this plan,” president and CEO of SRC Mike Crabtree said. “Advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is not only the right thing to do, it’s simply good business. We encourage all our staff, collaborators and clients to embrace reconciliation each and every day.”

Of particular importance within the plan will be two new programs supported by the Employment pillar: an Indigenous Workforce Program and an Indigenous Summer Student Program, Kiskiyihta (Kiskee ih-taah), which is a Cree word meaning to learn or to know. Together, these programs will help SRC increase recruitment and hiring of Indigenous Peoples by collaborating with Indigenous educational institutions and training entities to develop strategies for the retention and advancement of Indigenous employees. The collaborating organizations will also support SRC in finding potential candidates for SRC job openings and for the Indigenous Summer Student Program.

Other important initiatives within the plan include the formation of an Indigenous Advisory Committee, increasing Indigenous procurement via SRC’s Indigenous Procurement Policy, growing the number of Indigenous learning opportunities for SRC employees, and strengthening meaningful engagement and collaboration with Indigenous communities and Tribal Councils. 

Canadian Construction Association
by SHCA SHCA

Canada’s Construction Industry Launches National Campaign Calling for Action on Infrastructure Investment and Development During Federal Election

In this federal election, construction will no longer be ignored. March 27 marks the official launch of the Construction for Canadians campaign, supported by 57 national, provincial and regional construction associations from coast to coast.  

“A strong construction industry is the key to a strong Canada,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of the Canadian Construction Association (CCA). “To support long-term growth, the next federal government must make the necessary and overdue investments in trade-enabling infrastructure, workforce development and modernized procurement.” 

Construction affects every Canadian. It shapes Canada’s physical landscape, grows the economy, connects communities and plays a critical role in building a prosperous and resilient country. However, underinvestment, workforce challenges and outdated policies, combined with Donald Trump’s threats and tariffs, are barriers to the growth Canadians need. To set Canada up for success, the next federal government must commit to supporting construction.  

“The stakes are high. Without strategic investment, Canada risks falling further behind,” said Gilbert. “We need bold action to ensure our industry has the resources, talent and opportunities to keep building a strong economy and communities where Canadians can thrive.” 

Canada’s economy runs on construction. With over 1.6 million workers and $151 billion in economic impact, this industry is the foundation of the future. Learn more about Construction for Canadians at construction4cdns.ca. Canadians can help spread the word by sharing #construction4cdns on social media and sending a letter to their riding candidates at construction4cdns.ca/get-involved. 

SARM logo
by SHCA SHCA

SARM Responds to the 2025-26 Provincial Budget Announcement

SARM logo

The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), alongside its member rural municipalities (RMs), highlights both the positive aspects and concerns regarding rural communities across the province in this year’s provincial budget.

“Today’s budget includes several priorities that our members have been advocating for, although there is still room for improvement. We believe that these initiatives will significantly support our RMs and the people living in rural Saskatchewan,” said Bill Huber, SARM president.

Budget Highlights

Municipal Revenue Sharing

SARM is pleased with the increase, recognizing that RMs are a key component in driving the economy.

“The increase of 6.3 per cent from last year is always welcome; RMs have a major responsibility to provide the infrastructure that drives the major sectors of Saskatchewan’s economy,” said Huber.

The municipal revenue sharing model is unique to Saskatchewan. The model provides a more consistent flow of dollars to rural municipalities, which is greatly appreciated by our members. Recognizing that RMs are a key component in driving our economy will be imperative as the province works towards achieving its 2030 growth plan goals. RMs will need continued and increased support going forward.

Agriculture

Agriculture is the backbone of rural Saskatchewan and SARM is pleased with the investment in the Ministry of Agriculture this year. SARM supports the direction the province is taking, with Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership receiving a $89.4M investment this year. The program is in its third year; it has been a strong program to date.

Changes to the grazing formula will provide relief for producers renting crown land. The calculation will be more straightforward, and there will be a 20 per cent cap on rental fees. There will also be a $37 million investment in agricultural research to help producers stay competitive in other markets. These are all positives to note for this year.

Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG)

Funding for rural road and bridge infrastructure is imperative for RMs to continue to provide key economic sectors with a strategic transportation network that is effective and well maintained.

While SARM appreciates the increase in RIRG funding, the rising costs and challenges of maintaining rural infrastructure remain a pressing concern. SARM will continue to advocate for additional funding to ensure that RMs can adequately maintain and upgrade rural roads and bridges.

“While we recognize the challenges in balancing various priorities within budget constraints, we urge the government to ensure RMs have sufficient funding to maintain critical rural infrastructure across the province,” Huber said.

Health Care

The need for increased support of rural health care is increasingly apparent. Ensuring that all residents have access to quality health care is not just a matter of convenience, but a fundamental necessity that impacts the well-being and future of these communities. The virtual ER physician program and increases to EMS will improve response times and stabilize services across the province. The announced supports for 65 new and enhanced permanent full-time nursing positions in 30 rural and northern locations is also a welcomed opportunity for rural healthcare providers and our members.

The health care file is always a top priority for SARM, and members see these as positive changes in improving rural health care in the province.

Policing and Public Safety

The bylaw court hub model announcement is a positive step towards SARM members being able to enforce local bylaws. SARM has been asking the province for increased measures to aid in bylaw enforcement, and the increase in courts will go a long way to providing that.

Increases to the Sask. Marshals program and the RCMP are welcome sights. SARM will continue to advocate for larger investment in rural policing and safety, and supports all policing options available to rural Saskatchewan.

Moreover, SARM emphasizes the need for continued collaboration between the provincial government and RMs to address ongoing issues such as agricultural sustainability, health care, rural policing and rural infrastructure investments.

As Saskatchewan’s association of rural municipalities, SARM remains committed to advocating for the interests and concerns of its members, working alongside the government to foster the development and prosperity of rural Saskatchewan.

A fragment of a large bridge overpass with communications
by SHCA SHCA

$33.7 Million Highway 2 Over Trans-Canada Highway 1 Project Underway at Moose Jaw

A fragment of a large bridge overpass with communications

Highways Minister David Marit and the Moose Jaw community celebrated the recent start of an estimated $33.7 million project to raise the height of Highway 2 over Trans-Canada Highway 1. 

“Once completed, the project will improve safety and trucking efficiency over the long-term on Trans-Canada Highway 1 in Saskatchewan, which connects the province’s export-based economy to the rest of the country –  and the world,” Marit said.

The overpass project involves demolishing the existing pair of nearly 60-year-old Highway 2 over Highway 1 bridges, which have a clearance height of 4.5 metres and have been hit multiple times over the years by oversized traffic. The new structures will have a clearance height of 5.3 metres.

“On behalf of City Council, we thank the Ministry of Highways for undertaking this critical overpass project,” said Moose Jaw Mayor, James Murdock. “This improvement not only benefits the trucking industry, which is a cornerstone of our local economy, but also enhances the overall safety and well-being of our community, and the thousands of tourists that use Highways 1 and 2 to visit us.”

The existing classic cloverleaf shaped on- and off-ramps will also be replaced with modern diamond-shaped on- and off-ramps.

“The Saskatchewan Trucking Association welcomes the investment in the Highway 2 overpasses at Moose Jaw,” said Susan Ewart, executive director of the Saskatchewan Trucking Association. “This project is a critical improvement that will enhance safety and efficiency for trucking operations on this key transportation corridor, while demonstrating the provincial government’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure.” 

A Ministry of Highways contractor began staging in the area in mid-March and is expected to begin demolishing the northbound bridge the week of April 1.

During construction this year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the southbound bridge while the new northbound bridge is being built. Next year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the new northbound bridge while the new southbound bridge is being built. 

Highway 1 underneath the bridges will be reduced to two-way traffic throughout the project. Traffic from the exit ramps will be detoured as needed.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, pending weather.

Championship award golden trophy cup with shiny stars
by SHCA SHCA

Leaders in Construction: Meet the Recipients of CCA’s 2024 National Awards

Championship award golden trophy cup with shiny stars

Presented by Northbridge Insurance, the Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) National Awards ceremony was held on March 14, 2025, during the Annual Conference in Québec City. This year’s recipients represent the industry’s best and brightest.  

Congratulations to this year’s recipients for their exceptional contributions to the Canadian construction industry.  

Geza Banfai, CCA 2024 Pinnacle Leader Award – sponsored by PCL Construction 

An advocate for the Canadian construction industry for over 40 years, Geza’s commitment to legal reform, mentorship and the advancement of industry best practices promotes collaboration and efficiency in project execution, and helps the industry navigate challenges in an evolving legal landscape.

SUBHEAD: PCL Construction, CCA 2024 Environmental Achievement Award – sponsored by CHUBB Insurance Company of Canada

Recognizing PCL Construction for their Fairmont Royal York Decarbonization Project, which is a landmark achievement in sustainable construction, proving that even heritage buildings can evolve to meet modern environmental goals.  

Construction Association of Nova Scotia, CCA 2024 Workforce Excellence Award – sponsored by RAISE Underwriting

Through a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, the Construction Association of Nova Scotia is shaping a workforce that truly represents the communities it serves.  

Calgary Construction Association, CCA 2024 Partner Association Award – sponsored by Bockstael Construction 

The Calgary Construction Association is more than an industry leader – it’s a driving force for change. Affectionately known as “Little CCA,” the association is reshaping the industry by prioritizing services and focus areas that members need, such as dedicated public and media relations, advocacy and workforce strategies, and membership engagement events and activities.   

Westcor Construction Ltd., CCA 2024 Gold Seal Award – sponsored by Travelers Canada 

Westcor is a general contracting and construction management services company that aims to build a better world for clients, community and employees. Reflected by its people-first culture, Westcor empowers its people to reach their full potential and promotes Gold Seal certification as a recognized standard of excellence. 

Anthony DeVito, CCA 2024 Young Leader Award – sponsored by McMillan LLP 

Anthony DeVito, GSC, is a passionate advocate for the construction industry and has spearheaded multiple initiatives to address skilled labour shortages. His community spirit is equally inspiring, and in his just-over-a-decade long career, he has earned the respect of colleagues and industry peers alike. 

Groupe AGF, CCA 2024 Community Leader Award – sponsored by Marsh Canada Limited

For AGF and the Gendron family, community involvement and a culture of philanthropy are an integral part of corporate life. With over $4.5 million donated to causes across Canada and more than 750 employee-led fundraising events since its foundation’s inception, AGF unites its workforce, strengthens communities and demonstrates that collective action can create lasting impact.   

Enviro-Ex Contracting Ltd., CCA 2024 Excellence in Innovation Award – sponsored by Intact Surety 

Enviro-Ex Contracting’s Highway 97 Cottonwood Hill Phase Two Slide project overcame extraordinary geotechnical challenges, setting new standards for efficiency, safety and environmental responsibility, and stands as a testament to the potential of advanced technological integration in heavy civil construction. 

PCL Construction, CCA 2024 National Safety Award – sponsored by Vipond Inc.

At PCL Construction, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s a core value of every worker, every shift and every site. This unwavering commitment has led to zero fatalities in the past three years and an extraordinary 16.7 million hours worked without a lost-time incident. 

“This year’s award recipients demonstrate the best of the best of our industry. Congratulations to everyone for the recognition of their great achievements,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of CCA.  

The call for nominations for next year’s awards opens this fall.

Shantel Lipp
by Shantel Lipp Shantel Lipp

Budget 2025-26

Shantel Lipp - Portrait

Spring is finally here, according to the calendar. Meanwhile, most of us are waiting for the weather to catch up. Spring is the season that brings us renewal. When the snow finally melts, we see what has been hidden from us for the past four to five months and start to plan our outdoor work for the summer. 

For our industry, it is no different. We look for signs of renewed growth every spring when our provincial government releases its budget. On March 19, the Saskatchewan government delivered the 2025-26 budget. From our perspective, there were some encouraging signs. The 2025-26 highways budget was set at $777 million, with $421 million dedicated to capital projects.  

While this budget is going in the right direction by increasing slightly over last year’s budget, we still have a ways to go to get where we need to be. Our industry will continue to advocate for long-term planning for budget commitments that provides stability and growth for our members’ businesses. 

The current political climate surrounding the trade issue, while challenging for our industry, is also an opportunity for us to rethink how we build our industry to meet the challenge posed to our province. Due to the tariff issues created by the United States and China that are impacting our economy, Saskatchewan is busy exploring other trade partners. The status quo on getting our goods to market is no longer a viable option and we must be creative with how we get our products to our new trade partners. 

While we need to maintain our existing infrastructure, we should also look at resurrecting dormant routes along with the possibility of planning and building new ones. Diversifying our trade portfolio must include the best logistics to successfully deliver our products to our new trading partners. Our infrastructure is the backbone of our provincial trade. 

The SHCA is also encouraged by the announcement from the provincial government to hold construction roundtable discussions with partner groups. This will be an opportunity for our industry to advocate with other industries on the importance of government committing to issues such as long-term planning, removing interprovincial barriers and building a resilient workforce. 

Every year, we look forward to the renewal and growth that spring brings us. This year will be no exception for the heavy construction industry. Even though the province faces uncertainty with the looming tariffs, our industry remains optimistic facing the challenges ahead.

SHCA | Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association
by Shantel Lipp Shantel Lipp

Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association Applauds Premier Moe’s Decision to Pause Industrial Carbon Tax

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Regina, SK – [March 28, 2025] – The Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA) welcomes Premier Scott Moe’s announcement to pause the industrial carbon tax under the Output-Based Performance Standards (OBPS) program, effective April 1. This decisive action will provide much-needed relief to Saskatchewan’s heavy civil construction industry, which has long been burdened by rising costs due to the carbon tax.

“The heavy construction sector is a backbone of Saskatchewan’s infrastructure and economic growth,” said Shantel Lipp, president of SHCA. “Premier Moe’s decision acknowledges the negative impact that this tax has had on our industry. By pausing the industrial carbon tax, our members will see reduced financial pressures on key materials and inputs, allowing for more competitive project costs and greater investment in the province’s infrastructure.”

The OBPS program imposed a carbon tax on large industrial emitters, increasing the cost of critical construction materials such as asphalt, concrete, and steel. These added costs have contributed to higher project expenses, limiting industry growth and impacting the ability to deliver necessary infrastructure efficiently.

SHCA has consistently advocated for policies that support economic growth while balancing environmental responsibility. The association will continue working with the provincial government and industry stakeholders to develop practical solutions that support sustainability without stifling investment and job creation.

“We thank Premier Moe for recognizing the real challenges faced by the heavy construction industry and taking action to alleviate them,” added Lipp. “This decision helps ensure that Saskatchewan remains competitive and continues to build the roads, bridges, and infrastructure that drive our economy.”

For media inquiries, please contact:

Shantel Lipp, President
Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association
Phone: 306.586.1805
Email: slipp@saskheavy.ca

Closeup of map
by SHCA SHCA

$777 Million Highways Budget Delivering for Saskatchewan Motorists and Economy

Closeup of map
Click image to download full map (501 KB)

The Ministry of Highways 2025-26 Budget of $777.0 million is a road map to enhance driver safety and invest in strategic infrastructure to sustain Saskatchewan’s export-based economy.

“Our government will continue to deliver on improving our transportation network to build an even better Saskatchewan for all who call it home,” Highways Minister David Marit said. “Our ongoing work will help families, businesses and industries better reach their destinations.”

A $421.0 million investment for capital projects will improve transportation corridors with multi-year initiatives such as:

  • Passing lanes for Highway 10 between Fort Qu’Appelle and Melville, and Highway 17 north of Lloydminster;
  • Highway 39 twinning at Weyburn; and
  • Ongoing corridor improvements on Highway 5 east of Saskatoon.

More than 1,000 kilometres (km) of provincial highways will be improved for a total of more than 7,000 km over six years. Improvements include:

  • 200 km of repaving;
  • 245 km of medium treatments, like micro surfacing;
  • 480 km of pavement sealing;
  • 95 km of Thin Membrane Surface and rural highway upgrades; and
  • 30 km of gravel rehabilitation.

The Safety Improvement Program will invest $25.4 million toward intersections, guardrails, lighting and other assets. Northern Saskatchewan will see $122.3 million to build, operate and maintain highways and airports. Across the province, an $81.6 million investment will repair or rebuild 18 bridges and more than 100 culverts.

This work includes:

  • Starting construction of overpass replacements on Highway 2 over Highway 1 at Moose Jaw; and
  • Replacing the bridge on Highway 2 over Montreal River near La Ronge.

Key municipal road, short line railway infrastructure and related investments include:

  • $18.4 million to support economic growth and safety on rural municipal roads ($1.0 million increase);
  • $8.6 million for construction and maintenance partnerships with urban municipalities;
  • $2.2 million for the Strategic Partnership Program to enhance safe movement of large trucks;
  • $850,000 toward community airport improvements; and
  • $1.0 million for the Short Line Railway Improvement Program ($470,000 increase).

With this year’s budget, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $13.8 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 21,800 km of highways across the province.

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Shantel Lipp - SHCA President
by Shantel Lipp Shantel Lipp

New Standard for Trade Summit

Shantel Lipp - SHCA President

The Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA) was once again proud to host the Infrastructure Summit and Trade Show in Regina, Sask., on Dec. 4 and 5. This was the second year for the show that brings together contractors, suppliers, engineers and other professionals to discuss the latest innovations in infrastructure and transportation.

Presentations over the two days brought together leaders inside and outside of the industry to speak to the challenges and the solutions for our industry. I am pleased to say the Summit exceeded our expectations in terms of the content that was delivered and the quality of presenters. Add to that we had attendance that was much higher in 2024 than 2023.

Engraved SHCA Industry Awards

We had an array of amazing presenters who spoke on the emerging technologies that will have a large impact on how our industry does business in the future. Sessions included: how AI can be applied to our industry, a look at international procurement models, the impact electric trucks have on pavement, and building a new tool which will show government and industry where to build infrastructure to meet the increasing demand of commodity trading in the Prairie region.

The content we presented to the delegates had a lot of thought and care put into the subject matter for each technical session. It was interactive and additional professional development credits were provided, a benefit that was not available to delegates in 2023. We chose to make the Summit more of an educational experience rather than a networking and social event.

We had an array of amazing presenters who spoke on the emerging technologies that will have a large impact on how our industry does business in the future.

The 2024 Summit set the tone and we will use it as a template going forward. The importance of the subject matter presented cannot be overstated. However, the presentations were only one piece of the Summit. We were fortunate as well to host a trade show alongside the presentations that brought the delegates firsthand knowledge of many of the new technologies being used by our industry. After a very busy two days, delegates had the opportunity to join us for the 2024 industry awards and banquet, where the best of the best were honoured for their contributions to the heavy construction industry.

I am pleased to say there will be a third Summit. This year’s Summit will be our new standard. We see the potential of the Summit being a civil construction industry version of what Agribition brings to the ag sector. We also want to expand our reach beyond local contractors and local equipment people, and have delegates from around the globe attend.

I want to thank all our sponsors, exhibitors and delegates who were key to making this year’s Summit a great success. I look forward to seeing everyone in 2025 as we build on this year’s success for a bigger third Summit.