Industry continues to discuss highways capital program with MTI

The MHCA Highways Committee is continuing discussions regarding highway projects delivery with senior MTI officials, focusing intently on ensuring that the full value of the annual budget is tendered and awarded in the program year.

“There are some intensive discussions regarding the rollout of the tenders, far enough in advance of the coming construction season, to allow for industry to begin early and wrap up construction by the contract completion dates,” MHCA President & CEO Chris Lorenc said.

To date, MHCA and industry representatives have had two meetings with senior MTI administration, with two more meetings scheduled.

Industry is concerned about the tender advertising schedules released to date; the summer schedule released earlier this month indicates numerous larger projects yet to be tendered in June and July. That is worrisome given that the relatively short construction season and compressed timelines.

The information was discussed at the June 7 meeting of the MHCA Board of Directors, along with other priority industry and advocacy issues.

MTI has also issued this month the new and revised bituminous paving specifications. Industry was asked for input, but the department accommodated few of the suggestions received, the Board was advised.

Lorenc noted part of the discussion with the department senior officials relates to forming a specification review working group, so industry representatives and the department managers can work together, in advance of revisions or additions.

In other matters discussed:

• At April meeting with Public Works officials and city Councillors, MHCA and industry representatives made a successful appeal for city roadbuilding tenders to accommodate more working days within construction contracts
• A wage survey within industry has indicated heavy construction companies are generally paying wage and salary rates at levels seen for skilled trades
• A number of initiatives have been taken by the Workforce Development Committee to connect with community resources to assist industry with recruitment and hiring
• The MHCA, through the Western Canada Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association, is working in a coalition of seven national business association to press for a National Trade Infrastructure Plan. The efforts have seen good support from the majority of Canada’s premiers, to date.
• The City of Winnipeg is beginning to rollout pilot projects that will include social procurement measures, including in request for proposals. Tenders from the Public Works department are not expected to see such measures in the near future.