Construction groups ask Toronto to revamp procurement practices – Equipment Journal

Several construction associations in the GTA are calling on Toronto to make changes to the city’s procurement practices.

The Toronto and Area Road Builders Association (TARBA), the Greater Toronto Sewer and Watermain Contractors Association (GTSWCA) and the Heavy Construction Association of Toronto (HCAT) — whose members are responsible for about 75 per cent of Toronto’s total construction capital spend — are calling on the city to improve its procurement strategy to accelerate project timelines, mitigate traffic congestion and reduce overall costs.

“We are still using infrastructure that was put in place by our grandparents, and we are now seeing the impacts of underinvestment from past decades with this summer’s flooding and ongoing lack of affordable housing,” said Patrick McManus, Executive Director of GTSWCA.

“With Toronto’s continued growth and changing climate, delaying investments and halting construction is not an option, and less bureaucratic delays will only help get projects built faster and reduce continued traffic congestion.”

TARBA, GTSWCA and HCAT jointly propose several solutions to accelerate construction timelines, alleviate traffic congestion and cost.

The groups are requesting the implementation of early tendering and faster project awards. By tendering and awarding projects, like road maintenance and sewer expansion, earlier in late fall or early winter for the following year, the city can maximize the construction season while receiving more competitive pricing.

As well, the group’s suggest incentivizing project acceleration for early project completion, rather than penalties for delays, to expedite construction timelines.

TARBA, GTSWCA and HCAT also recommend:

Empower Decision-Making by Project Managers: Project managers should have the authority to make decisions during design conflicts to manage disputes and prevent construction delays.

Better Coordination and Communication: Improving project coordination and clear communication with residents can reduce disruptions and maintain public trust.

Promote a Culture of Innovation: Proactive collaboration between city officials and contractors on risk-sharing and modern procurement models can help unlock efficiencies.