Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
Staying true to history while ensuring the building’s structural integrity is a challenge that has been rewarding for EllisDon crews restoring and rebuilding Parliament’s Centre Block in Ottawa with partner, PCL Construction.
“It’s exciting—these buildings are historical landmarks and stand as a testament to our country’s history and a showcase of construction excellence,” Max Mantha, EllisDon’s Chief Operating Officer and executive vice-pesident, said in a statement. “The opportunity to work alongside PCL to bring modern engineering and construction into this project gives Centre Block the opportunity to stand for another century and hopefully longer.”
The project is multi-faceted, including the revered old architecture and design, with modern needs, engineering techniques and building codes. This is highlighted by the creation of a new basement structure slated to hold the new Parliament Welcome Centre.
Creating and building a basement beneath Centre Block highlights both the complexity of the project, and the expertise required.
From a construction standpoint, the basement is one of the most unique phases of the project.
The project requires an “intricate, carefully planned operation” that will create a temporary foundation supporting the building, while the old foundation is repaired, and the subterranean labyrinth is built to support the ongoing use and maintenance of Centre Block and the Parliament Buildings as a whole.
“We’re building a basement where there’s never been a basement and when you’re working with the foundations of the building as it stands, it’s a delicate process,” said Mike Armstrong, vice-president and Ottawa area manager, EllisDon. “Additionally, the entire project is representation of our ability to tackle complex projects with our expertise in the field.”
