THUNDER BAY – The value of construction activity in Thunder Bay increased by more than 50 per cent compared to 2016, even though the total number of building permits issued will likely be down.
City chief building official Des Stolz said about 1,080 building permits had been issued as of Friday, with a construction value of approximately $146 million.
This year’s construction value again climbed over the 10-year average of close to $130 million after the value dropped to $94 million in 2016, though more than 1,160 permits were approved.
“There are a number of projects if you go around town you can see,” Stolz said.
Those major projects included construction beginning on two new postsecondary academic buildings, the Centre for Advanced Studies in Engineering and Sciences Building at Lakehead University and the Technology, Education and Collaboration Hub at Confederation College. The extension of Kingsway Park Public School is also underway, which will allow the Lakehead Public School board to consolidate that grades 4-8 school with the adjacent kindergarten to Grade 3 Hyde Park Public School.
The multi-million dollar terminal renovation at the Thunder Bay International Airport also began earlier this year.
Two accommodation projects took significant steps forward as construction of the Delta waterfront hotel kicked into gear this year. As well, Stolz said the city has approved the conversion of the former Superior Court of Justice building on Camelot Street into a new boutique hotel.
Commercial growth included the new Lakehead Landing development on Fort William Road across from the Intercity Shopping Centre and additions within the Thunder Centre retail area.
Stolz said one of the busiest categories was multi-unit residential development. Among the significant activity included work resumed at the Thunder Bay Country Club’s condominium project, a new 24-unit Royston Court apartment building, Fountain Hill condos on Dawson Road, a 28-unit building on John Street Road as well as 12-unit and a 24-unit apartment buildings on Algoma Street.
“(Developers) obviously see an increased market for apartment units and condos,” Stolz said. “That’s where the market seems to be residentially.”
