< PreviousTwo thirds of Canada’s infrastructure funding go into Social Infrastructure. Further investigation shows that within this budget, 70% is spent on public buildings and health facilities. Education receives 19% while only 8% is spent on housing. While there may be some difficulty in comparing funding amounts with such blunt metrics, it is interesting to look deeper into spending on transport. While the sector only receives 11% of the overall spending, the budget spent on roads only accounts for a fraction of this. So where does this all leave the Canadian infrastructure land- scape? Unfortunately, quantifiable data is hard to come by and significantly, it takes years to collect. The last released report on the sector was assembled by a group of federal bodies, associations and networks in 2019. The 2019 Canadian Infra- structure Report Card was a collective effort that followed on from similar report cards in 2016 and 2012. According to the group, the reports showed that all is not well within the sector. “[It is] a timely update on the state of Canada’s public infra- structure across all core public infrastructure asset categories: roads and bridges; culture, recreation, and sports facilities; potable water; wastewater; stormwater; public transit; and solid waste. It finds that the state of our infrastructure is at risk, which should be cause for concern for all Canadians. In order to change course, Canada’s public infrastructure will require significant attention in the coming decades.” In fact, the report is even more critical. It showed an infra- structure network that was aging, in poor condition and struggling to meet the needs of Canadians. As far back as 2019, the statistics showed a worrying trend: •Nearly 40 percent of roads and bridges were in fair, poor or very poor condition, with roughly 80 percent being more than 20 years old. •Between 30 and 35 percent of recreational and cultural facilities were in fair, poor or very poor condition. In some categories (such as pools, libraries, and community cen- ters), more than 60 percent were at least 20 years old. •30 percent of water infrastructure (such as watermains and sewers) were in fair, poor or very poor condition. Five years on from the report, we are yet to be given an update. What is fair to say, however, is that infrastructure is a sector that is constantly in flux. Repairs and new construction is taking place all the time, so it could be disingenuous to paint an overly negative picture. However, the overall view is of an infrastructure network that is being underfunded and is, as a result, incrementally worsening. The report itself was critical of a number of infrastructure aspects. “A concerning amount of municipal infrastructure is in poor or very poor condition. Infrastructure in this condition represents an immediate need for action, as the rehabilitation or replacement of these assets is required in the next 5-10 years to ensure that the services | 10 APRIL 2024“In order to change course, Canada’s public infrastructure will require significant attention in the coming decades.” | 11 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONit provides continue to meet the community’s expectations. An even larger proportion of municipal infrastructure is in fair condition. Infrastructure in this condition represents a view of things to come in the medium to long term. This infra- structure will continue to deteriorate over the next decade, falling into poor and very poor condition if rehabilitation or replacement actions are not taken.” At the time, a pre-COVID world, this was an ominous view in itself. For Bill Karsten, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, it was time to take action. “We’re talking about roads, bridges, libraries, arenas and more—things Canadians rely on every day. Good, reliable infrastructure supports our quality of life in communities across the country, so Canadi- ans should find these results concerning.” So, what has been done since then to revitalize Canadian infrastructure? The picture is unclear. Certain measures have been introduced but without quality data to back it up, we are left in the dark. Prior to the report, in 2016, the Investing in Canada plan was announced. This was a federal com- mitment of over $180 billion over a twelve-year period. So far, figures show that it has invested $147 billion of this in over 95,000 projects. It is currently unclear what impact this investment will have on the next Report Card, but it is hoped that there will be a positive swing across all metrics. | 12 APRIL 2024Another recent announcement could also herald a new dawn for infrastructure projects, particularly those in indigenous areas. Last month, Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) announced a $100 million loan participation agree- ment with the First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC). This program will support the affordable financing and access- ing of funding for infrastructure projects in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. This funding, it is hoped, will ensure an improvement in living conditions, new economic opportunities, and housing. According to Ehren Cory, CEO of Canada Infrastructure Bank, the funding is vital to improving the lives of Canadians. “Through this investment, Indige- nous communities will work with FNBC to access critical financing to develop much-needed infrastructure in their communities and advance socio-economic reconciliation.” The long-term outcomes of this fund, alongside the Invest- ing in Canada plan, are currently unknown. It is certainly encouraging to see long term projects such as Metrolinx and the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Initiative come to fruition, but without evidence, much of this is guesswork. With no news on the horizon as to the completion of the next Report Card, we cannot be sure. Good things are hap- pening, that is clear, but are they good enough to stem the tide? We will have to wait and see. | 13 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONWRITTEN BY MEGHAN BARTON W hat is the secret to establishing a framework in steel fabrication that leads to three decades of success and growth in the temperamental and rapidly changing steel con- struction industry? Burnco Manufacturing, founded over 30 years ago in Concord, Ontario, is a renowned name in the construction industry, specializing in structural steel fabrication. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Burnco has expanded its operations to become the largest steel bridge fabricator in Ontario. Burnco initially focused on smaller building projects before venturing into industrial work. One notable early project was constructing facilities for Toyota manufacturing in Southern Ontario during the early to late 2000s, marking its entry into large-scale industrial projects. | 14 APRIL 2024| 15 APEIRON CONSTRUCTION Burnco's portfolio grew to include diverse projects across Canada, including a significant $70 million storage facility for potash in Saskatchewan. This project, completed for Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan, demonstrated Burnco's ability to handle complex industrial projects with precision and expertise. While Burnco is based in Ontario, it has success- fully completed projects in various provinces across Can- ada, including Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and New Brunswick. They are currently negotiating their first project in British Columbia, further expanding their geographic reach. Burnco has a long history of industrial and automotive expe- rience in Canada and the US. Their notable contributions include participation in six Toyota projects spanning from Tupelo Mississippi to Woodstock Ontario, as well as involve- ment in Mercedes Benz projects in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and General Motors in Flint Michigan. Burnco operates primarily out of its 180,000 square feet fabrication facility in Concord, with plans to expand by an additional 50,000 square feet. The facility houses around 250 employees, including engineers and various operational teams. The steel manufacturing industry is constantly evolv- ing, requiring adaptation to mitigate supply and operational | 16 APRIL 2024NORTH AMERICAN LEADER IN THE DISTRIBUTION OF STRUCTURAL BOLTS HEAD OFFICE & WAREHOUSE Saint-Hubert, QC 1-800-661-2658 WAREHOUSE & SALES Brampton, ON Edmonton, AB 1-866-999-6011 1-877-325-2658 www.amcanjumax.com Bolts | Nuts | Washers | Welding Studs Anchor Bolts | Threaded Rods | Clevis & more! ASTM F1852 TC Bolt A325 Assembly ASTM F2280 TC Bolt A490 Assembly ASTM A325 Assembly Type 1 & 3 ASTM A490 Assembly Type 1 & 3 interruptions. Burnco has incorporated more automation into its fabrication facilities to improve efficiencies and reduce reliance on labor. This strategic move has not only enhanced their operational efficiency but also positioned them as a forward-thinking company in the industry. “When we started nearly 30 years ago, we ventured into structural steel, grow- ing from a new player to one of Canada's top 10 steel fabrica- tors in both size and quality. In the bridge sector, we proudly rank among the top 3 or 4, showcasing our commitment to excellence and growth,” says John Boote, General Manager. Burnco Manufacturing's recent recognition as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies is a testament to its commitment to evolution and innovation. One key factor is their people-first approach, focusing on customer service and supporting their team to deliver exceptional results. Despite challenges such as supply chain issues and weather-related disruptions, Burnco has maintained a track record of delivering projects to clients, ensuring customer satisfaction. Burnco's philosophy of man- agement revolves around delivering exceptional customer service by supporting their team and addressing challenges head-on. “Burnco Manufacturing is honored to be recognized as one of the country's best managed companies. Our commit- ment to excellent customer service and supporting our team has been key. We've always made sure to deliver projects, no matter the challenges, whether it's supply chain hiccups or dealing with weather setbacks. It's all part of the construction business, but we've stayed true to our promise of delivering for our clients, and that's what sets us apart,” says Boote. Being a team member at Burnco is a source of immense esteem and fulfillment. "We take great pride in the quality of our work. We build products that awe the average person on the street. It's amazing to see pieces that are 100 to 150 feet long being shipped across the country. Participating in the creation of such impressive structures is truly awesome," says Boote. This sentiment resonates throughout the team, highlighting the awe-inspiring nature of their work and the sense of accomplishment they derive from contributing to such significant projects. “Burnco’s philosophy of management revolves around delivering exceptional customer service by supporting their team and addressing challenges head-on.” | 17 APEIRON CONSTRUCTION The most recent awe-inspiring project completed by the team is The Gordie Howe International Bridge. This super- structure is a cable-stayed bridge spanning the Detroit River, currently under construction. The crossing connects Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario providing the busiest border crossing point with increased capacity for uninterrupted freeway traffic flow for travelers and industry. Named for Canadian hockey great and long-time Detroit Red Wings and NHL All-Star player, this project is a joint effort between the builder, Bridging North America, and the US Federal Highway Administration, Transport Canada, Ontario Ministry of Trans- portation and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). Burnco Manufacturing was tasked with delivering the structural steel girders to support the approach ramp from grade to the main crossing over the river. Securing the contract for the Gordie Howe Bridge project was a considerable achievement for Burnco Manufacturing. It involved a rigorous bidding process and months of col- laboration with the client, Bridging North America. Burnco's success in winning the bid can be attributed to its technical qualifications, local presence, and proven track record in delivering high-quality structural steel products. The Gordie Howe Bridge project holds immense significance as it serves as a vital link between Windsor and Detroit. By participating in such a large-scale international bridge proj- ect, Burnco has not only enhanced its industry recognition but also solidified its position as a leading fabricator capable of handling complex and high-profile projects.Algoma Steel extends congratulations to Burnco Manufacturing Inc. on celebrating 30 years! Algoma has been proud to collaborate on many projects with Burnco, including the Gordie Howe International Bridge, where 4,500 net tons of Canadian-made steel plate are being used for the bridge ramps. At Algoma, we're dedicated to building better lives and a greener future. We are currently undergoing an electrifying transformation replacing existing basic oxygen furnace with electric arc furnace steelmaking. When complete, Algoma will reduce carbon emissions by approximately 70%. 1-705-945-2351 algoma.com The completion of their portion of the Gordie Howe Bridge proj- ect has positioned Burnco for future growth and opportunities, particularly in the US market. The company's successful deliv- ery of 150 curved girders over a nine-month period showcases its technical expertise and capacity to undertake large-scale projects. This accomplishment has not only garnered industry recognition but also paved the way for potential partnerships and collaborations with other contractors in future projects. While the company primes for the future, Burnco is also cel- ebrating a milestone that highlights its history and longevity. As Burnco Manufacturing celebrates its 30th anniversary, the company's staying power can be attributed to its ongoing drive to grow, expand, and provide exceptional service to cli- ents. This commitment to excellence has enabled Burnco to evolve with the industry and maintain its position as a leader in the steel fabrication sector. Looking ahead, the construction industry is expected to con- tinue evolving, with advancements in technology playing a significant role. Burnco Manufacturing anticipates continued growth in automation and the development of new materials, which will require the company to remain adaptable and inno- vative to meet the changing needs of its clients. Burnco is already planning to increase its labor force to accommodate its expanding operations. With specific targets still under dis- cussion, the company's intention is clear—to continue evolv- ing its business and expanding its reach in the coming years. Apart from its core steel fabrication business, Burnco has also ventured into coatings operations, both in-house and in the field. The company’s participation in The Gordie Howe International Bridge project (all the curved bridge girders are coated with a 3-part elaborate coating system) required Burnco to acquire a new coating certification program and make modifications to some of their equipment and manufac- turing processes. This diversification has not only expanded Burnco's service offerings but has also allowed the company to partner with manufacturers and corrosion specialists, enhancing its ability to provide an elevated customer experi- ence with diverse products and industry specializations. Burnco's relationships with coating manufacturers and automation experts, such as sister company, Prodevco Robotic Solutions, have been instrumental in its success. These partnerships have enabled Burnco to develop equip- ment and processes that set it apart from traditional steel fabricators, showcasing its ability to innovate and adapt to new challenges. “In our industry, standing still means falling behind. That's why we've embraced automation, recognizing its transformative power. In 2015, we acquired Prodevco to enhance our fabrication capabilities. Change and adaptation aren't just strategies; they're our lifelines,” says Boote. As Burnco Manufacturing reflects on its 30-year journey, it is evident that adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to excellence have been the cornerstones of its success. Look- ing ahead, Burnco remains poised for continued growth and expansion, driven by its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the construction industry and its clients. | 19 APEIRON CONSTRUCTIONNext >