Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government and Infrastructure Ontario have selected Bird Construction to expand the Thunder Bay Correctional Centre and Kenora Jail.
Both projects will address capacity pressures and provide additional space for effective programming and improved services. They are also designed to improve safety for staff and inmates.
Bird Construction will start work on both projects in April, and construction is expected to be completed in Spring 2021.
“Our government continues to take action to enhance the safety of frontline staff while working to improve programming for inmates, including supports specifically tailored to Indigenous individuals,” said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones.
The expansions at Kenora Jail and Thunder Bay Correctional Centre will leverage both integrated conventional site construction and innovative modular construction solutions through Bird’s partnership with Stack Modular.
Teams in Manitoba and Ontario will bring together experience and local expertise, “reaffirming our commitment to building meaningful partnerships with regional communities including engagement with local Indigenous communities,” Bird said in a news release.
This award follows the successful delivery of Phases I and II of the Ontario Provincial Police Modernization Projects, executed through a consortium led by Bird, and delivered for IO and the Ministry of the Solicitor General.
The state-of-the-art facilities include unique designs reflecting the communities “and are a testament to Bird’s proven expertise and experience in designing, constructing, and commissioning fast-tracked and rapid delivery builds.”
“We are pleased to once again be delivering infrastructure projects for these important clients. This contract underpins our proven ability to provide rapid delivery solutions and further demonstrates the unique value offering of Bird’s partnership with Stack Modular,” said Teri McKibbon, president and CEO of Bird.
“Comprehensive planning and collaboration will be at the foundation of these accelerated builds, which aligns with our values and supports our strategy to build long-term value for communities and shareholders.”