Projects - Norland Limited

78th Street Interchange

12 March 2025
by Karen Lawrence

Scope of Work

The 78th Street Interchange project includes:

Installation of essential utilities such as drainage, water, and sanitary systems
Major roadway and bridge construction, including ground improvements, and paving
Environmental works involving planting and revegetation
MSE walls and the installation of electrical systems and signage

Challenges & Solutions

The 78th Street project presents several challenges, including the extensive coordination for the relocation and installation of major utilities and roadways. The presence of existing infrastructure necessitates careful planning and execution to minimize disruptions. Our team’s expertise in handling complex infrastructure projects helped to overcome these challenges and ensure project timelines are met.

Additional challenges involved working within an environmentally sensitive area and coordinating with various stakeholders to protect local wildlife and habitats. To address these challenges, BEL Contracting engaged closely with an environmental management group, ensuring that wildlife was not at risk before proceeding with any part of construction.

In addition to the environmental sensitivity, the area brings significant challenges when building roads in the bog due to the high water table Deliberate stagging and sequencing of the construction, accompanied with experienced BEL crews, the challenge was overcome.

Overall Impact

The new interchange will enhance connectivity to Highway 99, reduce traffic congestion on the Matthews Interchange, and improve infrastructure for Parkwood Industrial Estates on 88th Street. The Lower Mainland and Delta communities will benefit from increased local transportation connectivity and accessibility for residents and businesses in the area. This development not only betters the infrastructure in Delta but also reflects our commitment to optimal project outcomes. As we continue to progress, NorLand remains dedicated to delivering exceptional results, fostering strong partnerships, and contributing to the growth and development of the communities we serve.

Holdom Overpass

6 March 20256 March 2025
by Karen Lawrence

Scope of Work

The scope of work includes the design and construction of a new four-lane overpass that will extend Holdom Avenue south across Still Creek and the CN rail corridor, connecting to Douglas Road in Burnaby. The project also involves the construction of a new bridge crossing Sunken Engine Creek, building a new pump station, the extension of Goring Street to Kingsland Drive, intersection upgrades, as well as habitat enhancements and restorations. Construction started in late 2024, with anticipated completion in 2027.

Challenges & Solutions

The Holdom Overpass Project requires the close coordination of many stakeholders, including the port authority, City of Burnaby and and CN. NorLand’s experienced BEL Contracting division is committed to working closely with all parties involved to ensure the project is delivered within the set timeline and budget.

Overall Impact

In addition to enhancing transportation efficiency and trade capacity via the North Shore terminals at the Port of Vancouver, the Holdom Overpass Project will increase safety and connections for the Burnaby community. Both pedestrians and drivers will benefit from the improved traffic flow, emergency response, and public space. As the project progresses, NorLand’s BEL Contracting division continues to demonstrate its role in shaping and improving transportation infrastructure in the Lower Mainland.

Rendering provided by VFPA

Briarwood Bridge

24 January 202524 January 2025
by Karen Lawrence

Scope of Work

The bridge replacement consisted of three main components:

Instream Works:

Modifying the streambed to align with DFO requirements, ensuring improved flow and habitat conditions.
Site isolation while constructing instream works.
Installation of Class 100kg Rip Rap below the High-Water Level.

Design and Construction of Temporary Detour:

Relocation of an existing temporary bridge onto newly constructed abutments and approaches to maintain traffic flow during construction.

Main Bridge Construction:

Removal of the existing approaches.
Excavation for foundations to prepare the site for new construction.
Construction of a geosynthetic reinforced soil-integrated bridge system(GRS-IBS) abutments, ensuring long-term structural stability.
Installation of 980m³ of Class 100kg riprap for scour protection, safeguarding the bridge against erosion.
Placement of concrete girders and a cast-in-place concrete deck to complete the main structural elements.
Paving of the bridge deck and approaches to provide a smooth and durable driving surface.

Challenges & Solutions

The Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure awarded Copcan the contract on August 23rd, 2023, with a fish window from August 15th to September 15th, leaving limited time to complete the instream works. The project was considered urgent, as another flood event could erode the temporary bridge and again cut off access to the small community. To advance the project, Copcan collaborated with our Registered Professional Biologist and DFO to secure an extension of the fish window to October 1st. Upon award, Copcan immediately began preparing submittals, including the Traffic Management Plan, Environmental Management Plan (with a site isolation plan), and Rip Rap testing for Acid Rock Drainage (ARD). Despite the tight timeline, Copcan successfully completed all in-stream works within the fish window, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship, efficient project management, and the community’s safety and accessibility.

During the foundation excavation, it was determined that the bearing material for the Reinforced Soil Foundations (RSF) was unsuitable. The original design restricted over-excavation, as the RSF needed to rest on native soil to achieve the required bearing capacity. Copcan collaborated with the owner and the geotechnical engineer to conduct additional testing, enabling the design engineer to make necessary modifications. The revised design involved lowering the wall elevation, increasing the size of the tiebacks, and enlarging the RSF’s width and depth. This adjustment created a conflict with the detour abutments, which were designed based on the initial wall configuration. The proximity and increased depth of the revised foundations risked undermining the detour abutments that were already supporting live traffic. To address this issue, Copcan enlisted our structural engineer to design a sheet pile wall to stabilize the detour. Working closely with our sister company, CDI, we developed a cost-effective, schedule-friendly solution that ensured the project could proceed successfully.

Overall Impact

Construction began on September 26th, 2023, starting with clearing and grubbing activities, followed by in-stream works. Copcan successfully completed all in-stream works before the extended fish window deadline, demonstrating efficiency and adherence to environmental timelines.

Throughout the project, Copcan worked closely with the owner to address design conflicts related to the detour and the geosynthetic reinforced soil-integrated bridge system (GRS-IBS) abutments. Resolving these design issues caused a significant 4-month delay. To mitigate the impact on the project timeline, Copcan implemented an intensive work schedule, operating 12-hour days, 6 days a week, to accelerate progress and limit delays.

This project was a high-priority initiative for the Ministry, serving as a pilot project for the GRS-IBS abutment system, which is envisioned for future applications where a portable concrete plant may not be feasible. The successful implementation of this system resulted in a durable and reliable structure, ensuring uninterrupted access for the local community. This achievement highlights Copcan’s ability to navigate complex challenges while delivering quality results under tight constraints.

6th Street Reconstruction Phase 1

21 January 2025
by Kaelan

Scope of Work

Key components of the project included:

Road Reconstruction: Completed 2,100m² of full road reconstruction to enhance durability and driving conditions.
Water Infrastructure: Installed 180m of 150mm Ø C900 DR18 PVC watermain to modernize the water distribution system.
Stormwater Management: Installed 110m of 300mm Ø SDR35 storm piping, along with one 900mm Ø catch basin and two 1050mm Ø manholes, to improve drainage and mitigate flooding risks.
Curb and Sidewalk Installation: Installed 380m of mountable curb and gutter and 550m² of new sidewalk, enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility.

Challenges & Solutions

Urban Construction Constraints: The project required careful planning to minimize disruptions in a residential area. Copcan employed phased construction techniques and clear communication with local residents to ensure smooth execution.
Drainage Improvements: Upgrading stormwater infrastructure was essential to address local flooding concerns. High-quality materials and efficient installation methods were used to ensure long-term reliability.
Traffic Management: Maintaining access for local traffic and pedestrians during construction posed a challenge. Comprehensive traffic and pedestrian management plans helped minimize inconvenience for residents and businesses.

Overall Impact

The 6th Street South Reconstruction project has significantly improved road and pedestrian infrastructure in Cranbrook. With upgraded water and storm systems and enhanced sidewalks, the project has increased safety, functionality, and accessibility for the community. Copcan Civil’s expertise in civil construction ensured the successful delivery of a high-quality project on time and on budget.

Red Mountain Resort – Caldera Phase 4

21 January 202521 January 2025
by Kaelan

Scope of Work

Key components of the project included:

Utility Installation:
- Constructed 260m of 150mm watermain.
- Installed 170m of 75mm sanitary force main.
- Installed 90m of 400mm CSP culvert with riprap-armoured headwalls for enhanced drainage and erosion control.
Roadway and Driveway Construction:
- Built 2,650m² of roadway and driveway asphalt, supported by base and subbase aggregate layers.
Excavation and Blasting:
- Performed rock blasting and Type D common excavation to prepare the site for development.
Utility Infrastructure:
- Installed electrical and communication utilities to service the new subdivision.

Challenges & Solutions

Mountainous Terrain: Working in Red Mountain’s challenging topography required advanced excavation techniques and precise rock blasting. Copcan’s experienced team ensured accurate and safe site preparation.
Drainage and Erosion Control: Constructing culverts with riprap-armoured headwalls was critical to managing water flow and preventing erosion in the mountainous environment. Copcan uses high-quality materials and methods to ensure long-term performance.
Community Integration: Developing a subdivision within a popular resort community demanded careful planning to minimize disruption to residents and visitors. Effective project management and clear communication kept stakeholders informed and satisfied throughout the process.

Overall Impact

Completing Caldera Phase 4 marks another step forward in Red Mountain Resort’s growth, providing modern, serviced lots for future development. The project’s high-quality infrastructure and environmental safeguards reflect Copcan Civil’s commitment to excellence, ensuring the subdivision meets the resort’s needs for years to come.

Nanaimo Fire Station Civil Works

8 January 20258 January 2025
by Karen Lawrence

Scope of Work:

All site works for the new fire hall included water, storm and sanitary utilities, building excavation, detailed footing excavation, trenching for mechanical and electrical, curb prep, sidewalk prep, and road gravels.

Challenges & Solutions:

The small footprint of the site made it a challenge working alongside numerous different subtrades. The existing fire station was located on the same property and had to remain in place throughout construction until the new building was ready for handover. Copcan completed all the site prep and utility work adjacent to the existing building while other trades were onsite such as pile drivers, electrical, mechanical and carpentry trades. Kinetic Construction, the general contractor, worked closely with Copcan’s superintendent to ensure effected communication and planning in advance so that trades were not tripping over each other.

Overall Impact:

Construction began in the fall of 2020 and the project was completed in April of 2023. All the civil works was completed on time and on budget. Very few changes/claims arose throughout construction as the design, general contracting and civil teams all worked together quite effectively mitigating challenges and identifying possible concerns ahead of time.

Columbia Avenue Phase 2

8 January 20258 January 2025
by Kaelan

Scope of Work

Key components of the project included:

Replacing and upgrading deep utilities, including water and storm sewer systems.
Full highway reconstruction to improve road durability and safety.
Constructing two retaining walls to support new grades and enhance stability.
Installing concrete sidewalks, complete with site furnishings for public use.
Boulevard landscaping, including the addition of street trees to improve the urban environment.
Miscellaneous electrical upgrades and relocations to modernize street lighting and utilities.

Challenges & Solutions

Utility Coordination: Upgrading water and storm sewer utilities required careful coordination to minimize disruptions to residents and businesses. Copcan implemented phased construction plans to maintain access and utility service throughout the project.
Retaining Wall Construction: Building retaining walls in constrained urban spaces demands precision and efficient use of materials. Copcan leveraged advanced construction techniques to meet design standards while adhering to tight timelines.
Community Impact: Enhancing a major corridor while minimizing disruption to traffic and local businesses was a key challenge. Traffic management plans and proactive communication with stakeholders ensured the project progressed smoothly.

Overall Impact

The Columbia Avenue Complete Streets project delivered lasting benefits to the City of Castlegar. The upgrades improved essential infrastructure reliability, enhanced roadway safety, and added modern pedestrian and cyclist amenities. With thoughtful landscaping and public furnishings, the project also contributed to the area’s aesthetic appeal and urban livability, making Columbia Avenue a more inviting and functional space for the community.

Annex Dike Improvements and Fernie Valley Pathway

8 January 20258 January 2025
by Kaelan

Scope of Work

The project focused on improving flood resilience and community amenities along the Fernie Annex Dike. Key tasks included:

Constructing 2 kilometres of dike rehabilitation to reinforce flood protection for the community.
Supplying and installing riprap armouring above the high-water level, integrating geotextile fabric and plantings to stabilize the dike and promote environmental sustainability.
Completing in-stream works to construct a concrete boat launch station, enhancing recreational access to the Elk River.

Challenges & Solutions

Floodplain Conditions: Working within the dike’s floodplain required strict adherence to environmental regulations. Copcan ensured compliance by coordinating with environmental monitors and implementing mitigation measures, such as geotextile installation and plantings, to maintain ecosystem health.
In-Stream Construction: Building the boat launch station involved in-stream works within a live watercourse. Copcan carefully timed construction to minimize disruption, using temporary isolation measures to protect the river.
Recreational Access: Balancing flood protection with community recreational needs required a thoughtful approach. The integration of the concrete boat launch station ensured the project delivered both safety and recreational benefits.

Overall Impact

The Annex Dike Improvements project enhanced flood resilience for the City of Fernie, providing long-term protection for residents and infrastructure. In addition to the safety benefits, the project created new recreational opportunities through the construction of the Fernie Valley Pathway and the concrete boat launch station, fostering a stronger connection between the community and the Elk River. The integration of plantings and geotextile supports environmental sustainability, ensuring the dike remains resilient against future flooding events while preserving the natural beauty of the area.

Frost Road to Chute Lake Road Extension

8 January 20258 January 2025
by Karen Lawrence

This project will link Chute Lake Road to Gordon Drive, featuring a new roundabout at the Frost and Chute Lake intersection. Once complete, it will improve access for residents of the Kettle Valley and Ponds neighbourhoods to schools, South Perimeter Way, and future commercial services, while reducing traffic on nearby streets.

These photos show the existing conditions of the site as we prepare to break ground. Stay tuned for updates as we make progress on this transformative project, which will continue into 2025.

Cranbrook Lagoons – Berm Upgrades Phase 3

8 January 2025
by Kaelan

Scope of Work:
Copcan Civil successfully executed the following key tasks:

Constructed temporary coffer dams to isolate lagoon cells, enabling the safe reconstruction of cell berms to new design standards.
Installed a new clay liner to reinforce the reconstructed berms, improving the structural integrity and water retention of the lagoon cells.
Applied riprap armoring along the berms adjacent to Joseph Creek, spanning from the start of Cell 1 to the end of Cell 3, to prevent erosion and protect the reconstructed berms.

Challenges & Solutions:

Environmental Protection: The proximity to Joseph Creek required careful planning and adherence to environmental regulations. Copcan’s approach included temporary isolation measures and precise placement of riprap to safeguard the creek and surrounding habitat.
Temporary Coffer Dams: Isolating the active lagoon cells was essential for maintaining water management during construction. Copcan employed engineered coffer dams to create dry work environments, ensuring construction could proceed without compromising lagoon operations.
Berm Stability: Reconstructing berms with a new clay liner and riprap armoring required careful material selection and meticulous placement to achieve the design standards and ensure long-term durability.

The successful completion of Phase 3 in November 2024 marked a significant milestone for Cranbrook’s lagoon system, enhancing its resilience against erosion and improving water management capabilities for the city.