The Chronicle Herald Saturday, July 18, 2009 E1

www.nsrba.ca NNOVAOVA SSCOTIACOTIA RROADOAD

BBUILDERSUILDERS AASSOCIATIONSSOCIATION special advertising feature 20009518

Joseph Robichaud Photography Road building is a key driver of the Nova Scotia economy. The industry is one of the province’s largest employers, representing a wide cross section of professions and trades. The sector employs more than 7,500 people annually, with an estimated payroll of $375 million. Road building key component of N.S. economy

By Ken Cashin roads, and its crucial infra- Special Features Writer structure components. Road building work has a long OR MOST PEOPLE, and in and storied history in Nova Sco- many industries, infra- tia, going back more than a centu- structure improvement is ry and today the industry remains Flittle more than a vague strong and healthy and is one of concept — an endeavour that province’s most modern and everyone agrees is necessary and progressive sectors. important, but one that someone The NSRBA works with gov- else has to accomplish. ernment to standardize road In the road building industry, building processes and develop however, infrastructure renewal environmental and safety regu- is quite literally where the rubber lations. The association also meets the road. In this industry, partners with other local industry it’s not just a catch phrase; it’s a associations and educational literal reality, a day to day respon- institutions to develop training sibility. programs. “Every single day in Nova Sco- The NSRBA recently hired a tia, in every corner of the prov- new executive director and is ince, from small communities to undertaking a new long-term large urban centres, people in strategic plan. The process is road building are hard at work aimed at making amendments to helping to maintain and improve old bylaws and preparing the the province’s most basic infra- industry for the next decade. structure, for the betterment of The NSRBA’s president, Ken everyone,” says Ken Thomas, Thomas, says road building has president of the Nova Scotia Bonnie Bobryk Photography an exciting future in Nova Scotia, Road Builders Association The 2009 NSRBA board of directors are (front, left to right): Rylan MacDow, Ron Dunn, Andrew with a projected increase in em- (NSRBA). Lake and Pat Gray. Back, left to right: Brad Scott, vice president; Ken Thomas, president; Paul ployment and more work expect- “The improvements they make ed in the public sector resulting to our roads and bridges are White, past president; Carol Ingraham; John Flemming; Grant Feltmate, executive director; and from infrastructure renewal pro- sometimes overlooked,” says Donald Chisholm. Missing from photo: Marcel Poitras, Trevor Chisholm, and Troy Nauss. grams announced by federal and Thomas, “but they’re ones we all provincial governments. utilize and benefit from every day. Road building is also a key sector employs more than 7,500 nies engaged in road, bridge, The key challenges ahead, says Roads are an integral part of our driver of the Nova Scotia econo- people annually, with an estimat- heavy civil, marine, and sewer Thomas, will be replacing retiring transportation system; they im- my. The industry is one of the ed payroll of $375 million. and water main construction. skilled trades people and training pact everything we do, from province’s largest employers, Represented by the NSRBA, Founded in 1947, the association enough people to do the work where we go, to how we get food representing a wide cross section the road building industry is and its members play an integral on the table — they’re essential.” of professions and trades. The made up of 140 member compa- part in building the province, it See KEN THOMAS /E2 NOVA SCOTIA ROAD BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PAST PRESIDENTS * Dr. H.W.L. Doane * H.H. Latimer * C.A. Maier R.G. Steed Aubrey Martell Ron Legere * D.F. MacIsaac * D.R. MacKay * R.K. Chappell J.G. Flemming Tim McSorley Gary Rudolph * W.P. Bickle * W.W. Spicer * L.D. Hopkins * S.W. Weeks * Gerry Holle Ken Thomas * G.C. Hault * L.H. Langley * P.W. Ross Dave MacKenna Elmer Thomas Barry Hunter * O.H. Norman H.W. Doane * J.T. Douglas * Vic Lunn Fred Benere John Flemming * M.H. McManus * A.O. Parsons * F.A. Martell John Chisholm Jack Eisener Wally Caldwell * R.S. Parsons D.W. Latimer R.E. Bayard * Dan Arbing Greg Burke Carl Baillie * F.C. Hudson * J.S. Stevens A.M. Dechman Eric Barker D.J. Campbell Don Maillet * J.D. Harnett * J.A. Domville * R.F. Titus Haluk Alemdar Cecil Vance Paul White *Deceased For NSRBA Membership and other information, please call 450-1433 www.nsrba.ca 20009491 E2 Saturday, July 18, 2009 The Chronicle Herald N.S. Asphalt User Producer Association hosts its second successful spring seminar By Melanie Furlong asphalt and we had speakers on Special Features Writer both of those subjects this April.” Hot mix asphalt recycling is The Nova Scotia Asphalt User technology that involves pro- Producer Association is contin- cessing the old asphalt off the uing to share more information road and mixing it in with the new about developments in the asphalt before putting it back down on the industry with its members across road. A few trial projects were the province, says Mike Deering, done in Nova Scotia last year and the association’s chair. Deering says there will be more On April 15, more than 300 asphalt recycling projects this participants attended their second summer. successful Spring Seminar held at Another technology involving the Holiday Inn Harbourview, recycling asphalt pavement hap- which was supported by more pens at the road itself. Both CIR than 20 industry sponsors. (cold in place) and FDR (full “The seminar covered topics depth reclamation) are both tech- from asphalt plants to placing nologies to reuse and rehabilitate asphalt on the road,” says Deering. the existing asphalt pavement in “Our speakers were both local and place on site. Recycled asphalt from the U.S. covering a broad reduces 10 to 25 per cent of the spectrum of the industry to try virgin material used by introduc- and have a little bit of something ing the recycled asphalt into the for everyone.” conventional hot mix asphalt at The Nova Scotia Asphalt User the asphalt plant. Currently, as- Producer Association is made up phalt is the most recycled product of contractors, government em- in the world. ployees, suppliers, consultants “We’re on the edge of that tech- and educators. There are currently nology right now and hopefully a 19 members of the Nova Scotia few contractors will try it this Road Builders participating in the year,” he says. group. Producer members include: Warm-mix asphalt is the new Aberdeen Paving, Basin Contract- ‘green technology,’ made by low- ing, Costin Paving, Dexter Con- ering the temperature during struction, Highland Asphalt, manufacturing but using a very Ocean Contractors, Ocean Paving, similar process to conventional S.W. Weeks Construction, Will- hot mix asphalt. Kare Paving, Industrial Cold Mill- “This reduces emissions,” says ing, Roto Mill Services. Supplier Deering, “but there haven’t been a members include Atlantic Tractors lot of long-term studies regarding & Equipment, Aggregate Equip- warm mix asphalt and how it ment, McAsphalt Industries, Impe- performs long term. It’s the new- rial Oil, Santon Equipment, est asphalt technology and we Strongco, Wallace Equipment and brought people in to speak about Wilson Equipment. it to make sure we were informed “Technology in the asphalt as much a we can be about it.” industry is changing as rapidly as Deering says the association’s we’re willing to let it,” says Deer- goal is to help everyone make ing. “The specifications are getting better asphalt. stricter so we have to keep up “If something is working,” he with the demand of government says, “we should all be doing it. Todd Gillis Photo agencies and we need the tech- Better asphalt improves every- Work on the 101 Highway twinning is one of the major road projects currently going on in N.S. nology to do that. We try to make thing from safety on the roads to everybody aware of the advance- road quality itself. That’s our goal. ment of technology out there. Two We’re just at the starting point of of those technologies are hot mix getting everyone together to work recycled asphalt and warm-mix towards a common goal.”

Getting message out Nova Scotia Road Builders Association facts information specific to road in Nova Scotia, so there are many By Ken Cashin Who we are... I Employees are highly valued. building. variables. Hopefully, the govern- Special Features Writer I They expect, wish and are The industry is also estab- ment stimulus plans will benefit I Founded in 1947, NSRBA Raising your profile and getting lishing industry-specific training our industry for the next couple represents contractors work- often required to work long your message out is important for programs with local educational years. Ideally, the economy will ing in Nova Scotia who are hours. practically every association, as it institutions like Nova Scotia have rebounded during that peri- engaged in road, bridge, heavy- I They are often away from helps you grow and improve, Community College. od to the point where private civil, marine, sewer and water home for extended periods. better serve your members, and “We expect lots of employment demand for our services will be main construction. The in- I They originate from both achieve your goals. opportunities in the coming back up again.” terests of suppliers to the rural and urban communities; New executive director of the years,” says Feltmate. “We’re Feltmate is quick to point out, industry are met through asso- from every county, town and Nova Scotia Road Builders Asso- taking a proactive approach to though, that even with the in- village in the province. ciation (NSRBA) Grant Feltmate dealing with the anticipated de- creased government budgets, ciate membership. I Their payroll and benefits says a key focus will be to pro- mand.” there’s still a shortfall — the I NSRBA is the only organ- mote greater awareness of what Another key focus, says Felt- spending is still lower than what’s ization representing the road substantially exceed minimum the association does and highlight mate, has been the development needed for the job of not only building sector in N.S. standards. the significant role it plays in of a new strategic planning pro- maintaining our infrastructure, I Our 140 member companies driving the Nova Scotia economy. cess to help direct the association but also expanding it. directly and indirectly employ Spin-offs of road building... The NSRBA’s executive direc- going forward. He adds that the He adds that road building is approximately 7,500 individu- I Approximately 7,500 per- tor position was formally created NSRBA has also improved com- directly responsible for creating als annually. sons, directly and indirectly in October, 2008. Similar to other munications with the other prov- the fundamental infrastructure I Our work impacts signif- earning an estimated $375 road building associations in inces to address common issues upon which a good economy can Canada, the position provides a in the industry. be built. icantly on the service and million in wages, are employed consistent point of contact for its Helping organizations gain a “A good highway infrastructure supply industry. annually by the sector; and members and important industry clear picture of where they want is a crucial support for building a I We are distinct from the these numbers will grow as stakeholders. The executive to go and find the best way to get solid provincial economy,” says construction industry; we have funding increases. director’s main responsibility is to there is something Feltmate has Feltmate. “Nova Scotia’s road unique working conditions and I Economic benefits accrue to carry out the mandate provided done many times before, having building industry is very impor- needs. communities and families by the board of directors. directed a number of significant tant to our province, both in the across N.S. “Our 140 member companies associations through successful economic impact it provides Industry realties... I Goods and services required create a huge amount of em- strategic planning. through direct employment as ployment in the province — 7,500 With over 20 years of consult- well as the spending on local I Our sector is highly compet- by contractors are purchased jobs annually with an estimated ing experience and a broad range goods and services.” itive. locally wherever possible, $375 million in wages,” says Felt- of exposure to private industry, On an on-going basis, he says, I The industry is seasonal. assisting small businesses mate. “We’re also major purchas- associations and government, the NSRBA’s goal will remain Early tender calls are critical province wide. ers of Nova Scotia products and Feltmate is a steady hand on the consistent: to secure reasonable to timely tender completion. I Improves sustainability of services. wheel at an important time in the levels of stable, long-term govern- I Safety is a top priority for the Nova Scotia’s rural communi- However, we feel that knowl- NSRBA’s history. He says the ment spending necessary to main- industry. ties and businesses. edge of our industry’s significance industry finds itself in an unusual tain the prov- could be much better and we’re situation right now, with the ince’s roads working hard to change that.” economic downturn on the one and bridges As a result of the new public hand and, on the other hand, a and build new relations campaign, the associ- new emphasis on infrastructure ones for the ation recently revamped its Web spending by all levels of govern- future. site, aiming to enhance its profile ment. “Now is the and make available better online “This has resulted in much time to invest services to its members. The site larger than usual government in our roads boasts a colourful, sharp new spending being earmarked for and bridges,” look, better functionality, and road building,” says Feltmate. says Feltmate. includes an improved member- “But, at the same time, our “It would give “Serving the Maritimes” ship directory. industry is dealing with less de- the province Other new initiatives are also mand from the private sector, as tangible, long- underway. The NSRBA is working those entities make their way term assets with the provincial government to through the economic challenges that would lead COMMERCIAL-RESIDENTIAL address the industry’s long-term of the day.” to productivity labour needs in critical areas He adds, “We’re also going gains for many • Asphalt Paving - Commercial/Residential such as accurate labour market through a change of government years.” • Municipal Sewer & Water Installation

with the Nova Scotia Community College • Excavation & Commercial Site Development Ken Thomas (NSCC) to create the Dexter Institute, a • Portable Custom Crushing two-year heavy construction program that • Quarry Rock Products continued from / E1 trains people for careers in road building and construction. • Classifi ed Sand Products coming down the pipeline. He says that He adds that, together with the N.S. although road building offers rewarding, Department of Education, NSCC and the • Washed Stone Products good paying jobs and a diverse range of Construction Association of Nova Scotia career choices, fewer young people seem (CANS), the NSRBA is involved with a to be getting into it. program called Building Futures for Youth, “The demographic is changing,” says which allows Grade 11 students to explore QUARRY CRUSHED GRAVEL Thomas. “Traditionally, our workforce has a career in road building through a sum- come from rural areas, but today a lot of mer education and work program. AND DRAINAGE ROCK young people are moving into the urban “We’re trying to show young people that centres, looking for office jobs and work road building is an excellent career choice, For estimates & All Inquiries, in other industries.” with lots of employment opportunities Thomas says the NSRBA has undertak- down the road,” says Thomas. “It’s also Contact Head Offi ce: en a number of initiatives to meet the very rewarding work. At the end of the day 186 Terra Cotta Drive • New Glasgow • Nova Scotia labour needs of the future. He points out you can look over your shoulder and see Tel: 902-755-3777 • Fax: 902-755-2580 that Dexter Construction has partnered what you’ve done.” 20007890 The Chronicle Herald Saturday, July 18, 2009 E3

Joseph Robichaud Photography A long-term initiative called Building Futures was launched by the Construction Association of Nova Scotia to commemorate its 150th anniversary in 2012. Building futures By Ken Cashin goal. As of January 2009, CANS Special Features Writer member companies and industry organizations have committed Joseph Robichaud Photography ‘Many hands working’ together $1,250,000 to NSCC scholarships. CANS is committed to helping close the skill shortage here in Nova Scotia. is what the road building industry Contributors include many mem- is all about. bers of the Nova Scotia Road And just as road building re- Builders Association (NSRBA). an annual student award of $1,000 well as other regions of the coun- career options to young people quires the co-operation of many Support has also come from vari- in perpetuity. Contributors can set try. The primary role of CANS is to coming into the workforce and people with various skills, the ous associations within the indus- the qualifying criteria for the represent the interests of its mem- allow workers already in the in- success of the industry itself de- try as well. scholarships. ber companies. dustry to upgrade their skills. pends on the ability of the many CANS president, Carol MacCul- Last year, the program awarded MacCulloch says the 10-year groups within it to work together loch, says the awards will help eight scholarships and 20 this forecast for the local construction CANS contributors for a common purpose. attract students to construction- year. industry indicates the sector will NSRBA Member Companies A great example of industry With the endowment, CANS will offer excellent employment oppor- related programs to meet the who have contributed to the cooperation is a long-term initia- be able to provide approximately tunities. In the next decade, she growing labour needs of the con- tive called Building Futures one hundred $1,000 student says, many of the most CANS 150th Anniversary Building launched by the Construction struction industry. awards annually for the life-time experienced trades people in the Futures Industry Investors as of Association of Nova Scotia “CANS is committed to helping of the college so that 100 students industry will be retiring and the January 2009 are: Black & McDo- (CANS) to commemorate its 150th close the skill shortage here in will be able to financially support sector will likely see an upswing nald, Conrad Brothers Limited, anniversary in 2012. Nova Scotia and what better way their education every year. in work if federal and provincial Dexter Construction Company For Building Futures, CANS to accomplish this goal than with CANS is an industry trade asso- governments honour the commit- Ltd., Eastern Fence Erectors Ltd., members are rallying together for a strong commitment to the ciation representing contractors, ments they’ve made to infra- J. R. Eisener Contracting Limited, a unified goal — to establish a NSCC,” says MacCulloch. “CANS suppliers and service providers structure renewal. Elmsdale Landscaping Limited, $2.5-million endowment fund with has 700 member organizations and comprising the non-residential CANS and other industry part- Fraser & Hoyt, Higgins Construc- the NSCC Foundation for student is positioned well to make a bold construction industry. CANS was ners, together with the department tion, J.W. Bird & Co. Ltd., Ocean scholarships and bursaries at the statement about the industry’s founded in 1862 as the Halifax of education and NSCC, are also Contractors Limited, OSCO Con- Nova Scotia Community College value to Nova Scotia.” Builders’ Society. undertaking other initiatives to crete, The Shaw Group Limited, (NSCC). Donors can establish their own Since that time, CANS member- meet future labour needs. NSCC Stevens Group of Companies, Building Futures has already named endowment at a minimum ship has grown to include firms has invested in construction relat- Wade Atlantic, and Wilcraft Con- reached half of its fundraising amount of $25,000, which provides from all over Atlantic Canada as ed programs, which provide more crete Services. Placement program gives Grade 11 students chance to test drive construction industry By Ken Cashin Despite fluctuations in con- of Nova Scotia (CANS). Community College (NSCC), is “They have a chance to meet up Special Features Writer struction employment due to the CANS president, Carol MacCul- giving Grade 11 students at vari- with employers in their local area current weakening of demand loch, says the industry is cooper- ous high schools in the province a and see for themselves the many The good news in the heavy from the private sector, the com- ating on a number of initiatives to chance to explore the heavy benefits of working in this indus- construction industry is that the bination of an aging workforce improve training capacity and construction industry. try.” employment picture for the next and an expected upturn in public address the industry’s require- “Building Futures for Youth CANS developed Building 10 years looks very promising. sector work in the years ahead is ment for new entrants. She says a gives students a great opportunity Futures for Youth in partnership Industry experts say the key issue increasing the need for training new program, called Building to test drive the industry and see with the Department of Educa- will be to train enough people to infrastructure in the province, Futures for Youth, a co-op educa- what a career in construction is do the work. says the Construction Association tion/work program at Nova Scotia all about,” says MacCulloch. See PLACEMENT PROGRAM /E9

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Contributed Bill Estabrooks is the new Min- ister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. Estabrooks is no stranger to road building industry By Melanie Furlong Special Features Writer Nova Scotia’s roads are one of the greatest indicators of the econo- my’s good health, says Bill Es- tabrooks, the new minister of transportation and infrastructure renewal. “That’s why the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association has always been so important to me as an MLA and now as a minister,” says Estabrooks. “I certainly appre- ciate the fact that they are a well organized, skilled group that has always been in close contact with us whether we’re in opposition or government and it is so important they are given support from what- ever government of the day to Joseph Robichaud Photography make sure that they continue to make roads, maintain them and Komatsu equipment owners can track how many hours are on the machine, how much fuel is in the tank, how many hours the machine keep them safe. Our roads are an was idling, how many hours it was digging with a bucket or running an attachment, and how many times it moved forward or backward. indicator to visitors and Nova Scotians that we’re making good use of their money.” Although Estabrooks is new in his position as minister of trans- portation and infrastructure renew- High-tech equipment saves time, money al, he was once the transportation critic. By Melanie Furlong “I’m certainly aware of the great Special Features Writer work done by the Nova Scotia Road Builders and one of my pri- Heavy equipment owners and orities as minister is to make sure operators can track just about that we continue to work with them closely to build a good work- everything they do these days ing relationship,” says Estabrooks. thanks to developments in satel- “They have a huge responsibility lite communications. when it comes to building and Morgan Cronin, vice-president maintaining our highways. Whether of Wilson Equipment Ltd., says all we’re talking about improving of their Komatsu machines come infrastructure or connecting com- equipped with satellite communi- munities throughout the province, cations called the Komtrax sys- they are key to the success not just tem. to this government, but to making “Most machines today are run sure we have good safe roads.” by computers,” says Cronin. After just one week on the job, “Computers run the engines, the Estabrooks says it’s too early to confirm specific projects yet, but fuel delivery systems, the hydrau- that they are at the cabinet table lics and the transmission. They now. send electronic information back “We do know that when it comes and forth between the different to the provincial projects and the components so now the satellites stimulus package from the federal can intercept this and it can be government that Road Builders are broadcast to the owner. The crucial, especially at this time of owner can access that informa- the year,” says Estabrooks. “We tion by going on a secure site on have to make sure they have ap- the Internet.” Joseph Robichaud Photography propriate funds so that we can Komatsu equipment owners continue to make sure this is an can track how many hours are on All of Wilson Equipment Ltd.’s Komatsu machines come equipped with the Komtrax satellite com- important part of the economy in munications system. Nova Scotia.” the machine, how much fuel is in Estabrooks says the construc- the tank, how many hours the tion season is well underway with machine was idling, how many can look up the fault code, diag- machines can also be set that Komatsu is also using satellite more projects in the works. hours it was digging with a buck- nose the problem and have the advise the machine where it can communications to run heavy “I understand how important it et or running an attachment, or right parts dispatched to it, giving operate. If it goes outside the trucks autonomously in large is that we have these so-called how many times it moved for- the service technician a much boundaries, it will shut down and mining operations in Australia shovel-ready projects for us in ward or backward. better idea of what the problem is can’t be started again. and South Africa. Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia “If there’s any fault with the and allowing him to service it “This is an anti-theft feature “These trucks go back and more efficiently.” you can switch on if you like,” forth with nobody in the cab,” Road Builders Association comes machines, the computer will as prepared as anybody when it The system can also tell own- says Cronin. “It will also tell you says Cronin. “They’re guided by recognize the fault code and can ers how much fuel the machine is where the machine is located.” GPS satellites and radar on the comes to shovel-ready projects,” actually be programmed to send Estabrooks says. burning in its economy mode or The Komtrax system is avail- ground. If the vehicle approaches “That’s their claim to fame and an email to the owner’s Black- full mode and can save users able for every Komatsu machine a person or a pick-up on the road, we want to make sure as a govern- berry or to his computer telling money by showing them which is including wheel loaders, bulldoz- the truck detects it and stops. It’s ment that we’re there to support him there’s a problem and what it most efficient. ers, trucks and other construction like a robot in that it’s aware of them in as many ways as possible.” is,” says Cronin. “The dealership Boundaries for operating the equipment. itself and its surroundings.”

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20011726 Bible Hill, NS B2N 6M4 Phone: (902) 843-3157 Road Builders Association Fax: (902) 843-3187 www.armtec.com 20007788 The Chronicle Herald Saturday, July 18, 2009 E5 Construction zone safety By Melanie Furlong be inconvenienced by construc- Special Features Writer tion delays,” says Gray. “In an effort to keep motorists Considerable effort has been better informed we have put out made to improve construction news releases and radio commu- zone safety by road building nications and added message contractors since the mid-’90s, boards ahead of a lot of job sites. says Patrick Gray, director of We’ve also made changes to new- safety for the Nova Scotia Road er cones and barrels that are Builders Association. taller, brighter and more visible to “Safety has become paramount delineate the work zone from the with road building contractors, travelling area.” and statistics will support the One of the most significant safety improvements that have changes impacting construction been made,” says Gray. “Dealing zone safety is the doubling of with traffic still remains the big- speeding fines in construction gest challenge road construction zones, which was legislated last crews face. We have realized that year. communication and coordination “We’re working with law en- with all parties is key on every forcement to try to force people project.” to slow down,” says Gray. “On the That’s why the Nova Scotia 100-series highways, you’ll see Road Builders Association, in signs asking people to reduce conjunction with the department their speed from 100 km per hour of transportation and infra- to 80 km per hour. Drivers will structure renewal, has made even have demerit points assigned to more efforts to promote road their driving records, and speed- construction safety awareness to ing ticket fines now can range the motoring public. anywhere from $337 for a first “The public is concerned over time offence to $2,407 for a third the poor condition some of our offence.” roads are in, especially after the All the measures are part of a harsh winter we had. But as the safety campaign the Nova Scotia construction season begins, and Road Builders Association is repairs and upgrades are being working on with the department made, motorists do not want to of transportation and infra- structure renewal. Janice Harland, manager of traffic engineering services for the department, says, “We’re pleased to be working with Nova Scotia Road Builders to promote work zone safety. Partnership in this effort reflects our shared interest and responsibility to both highway construction and mainte- nance workers and motorists.” “We’re trying to make motorists understand that they have to be patient, attentive and reduce their speed in work zones,” says Gray. “We’re working very close to on-coming traffic and if you’ve ever had the chance to stand on a job site, and a speeding car comes close, it can definitely be unsettling. For many men and women, that’s their workplace and we want to make sure they Joseph Robichaud Photography go home safely to their families at Joseph Robichaud Photography Slow down in work zones. the end of the day.” Dealing with traffic still remains the biggest challenge road construction crews face.

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Dexter Construction Company Limited PO Box 48100, Bedford, Nova Scotia, Canada B4A 3Z2 A network across Canada Tel: 902-835-3381 Fax: 902-835-7300 www.municipalgroup.ca Eastern Region : 800 881-9828 FREDERICTON 506-457-5544 Dexter Construction Company Limited MONCTON 506-857-9513 A Member of the Municipal Group of Companies. 20007070 E6 Saturday, July 18, 2009 The Chronicle Herald

Joseph Robichaud Photography While physical labour has not disappeared from the industry altogether, road building today is light years more advanced than it was only a few decades ago. Unique careers found in road building industry

By Ken Cashin tion equipment is evolving con- ators to highly technical careers “The manual shovel work has civil design, inspection of con- Special Features Writer stantly, and, as such, computer like surveying and new product been replaced by equipment that’s struction projects, as well as simulators are often used for development. Many unique career been specially designed for the technical writing for consultants, In the eyes of many people, it training, while equipment design paths can be found here, both in tasks at hand,” says Rudolph. construction companies, and used to be that a career in road is becoming highly specialized the field and in the office, with “Career opportunities have ad- other contractors. building — if you could even call and those who operate road jobs as diverse as project manage- vanced and kept pace with the The day to day activities and it a career — meant a harsh sen- building machinery are specialists ment and engineering & design. new generation of tools and con- experiences on the job are in- tence of back-breaking labour in their field and make very good Gary Rudolph, with local con- struction methods. Road building credibly diverse, challenging, and digging a ditch or excruciating money. tractor Highland Asphalt Lafarge, is a fantastic career path offering dynamic, he says, which provides work in the sweltering summer The industry employs 7,500 says the range of career options is diversity, specialized skills train- a unique opportunity to develop heat shovelling steamy asphalt. people and pays an estimated staggering, encompassing every- ing, and dynamic work envi- both people skills and technical While physical labour has not $375 million in wages annually. Its disappeared from the industry payroll and benefits far exceed thing from project estimators to ronments.” abilities. altogether, road building today is minimum standards. The top 20 the people who execute the work. Rudolph says that while much “The work environment chang- light years more advanced than it per cent of all individuals work- Some of the many jobs, he says, of the appeal is that you get to es greatly from day to day,” says was only a few decades ago. The ing in heavy construction earn include everything from engi- work outside, you can work in Rudolph. “You see results quickly industry offers a diverse range of over $45,000 annually, while the neers and architects to IT special- many different environments, and you can take pride in your career choices and employs peo- average salary for this profession ists, communications people, both indoor and outdoor. The accomplishments. You often work ple from a broad spectrum of is about $39,000 per year. surveyors, heavy equipment oper- type of work you can do, he says, in a team environment where disciplines and backgrounds. Job opportunities run the ga- ators and safety managers, to includes laboratory analysis and everyone’s role and contribution Today, the design of construc- mut from heavy equipment oper- name just a few. testing, environmental analysis, is important and respected.” NSRBA building more than just roads By Ken Cashin held its seventh annual golf tour- auction was held, with the pro- Special Features Writer nament at the Truro Golf Club. ceeds going to a charity of the Each year the event attracts 140 NSRBA president’s choice: the Since its founding in 1947 the players and has raised more than Truro STAR program. For this Nova Scotia Road Builders Asso- $30,000 over the past seven years charity the NSRBA raised more ciation (NSRBA) and its members for charities like Christmas Dad- than $8,000. have played an integral part in dies and the Turkey Club Society. The STAR program is a non- building the province, its roads, At the NSRBA’s annual general profit organization that relies and its infrastructure. meeting in January 2008, the solely on fundraising and dona- A non profit organization, the association put on a formal eve- tions. The first session of STAR NSRBA also helps build good will ning and held a live silent auction took place in January 2004 and in the local community by giving with the proceeds going to the the organization has continued to back to it through charitable Children’s Wish Foundation of grow each year. It provides much donations. Canada. The event raised over needed support to special needs Every year the association $80,000 dollars. children in our community. shows it support by donating The donation is one of the The NSRBA’s 2009 donation to surplus funds to many different largest that the charity has ever STAR was the largest the program charitable groups and causes. received from a third-party event. Joseph Robichaud Photography On July 10, 2009 the NSRBA In 2009 a smaller version of the See CHARITY WORK / E11 Road work is presently underway on Fenwick Street in Halifax.

WILL-KARE PAVING & CONTRACTING LTD.

Serving Central Nova Scotia, Canada Since 1974 Your Paving Specialists serving Truro and surrounding areas. TRURO, NS Phone: (902) 897-7283 www.willkarepaving.ns.ca 20011735

A Member of the NSRBA

124 Lower Truro Rd. 30 Isnor Drive, Suite 2

20007908 P.O. Box 723 Burnside Industrial Park Truro, N.S. B2N 5E8 Dartmouth, N.S. B3B 1K5

GENERAL Tel: (902) 895-0511 Tel: (902) 481-9040 CONTRACTORS Fax: (902) 893-0111 Fax: (902) 468-1614 P.O. Box 1193, Antigonish, NS 008 (902) 863-6445 www.mackaystruckcenter.ca 6 2001 The Chronicle Herald Saturday, July 18, 2009 E7 Route 215 paving begins this summer By Melanie Furlong “After that has happened on Special Features Writer section one, we’ll put down a layer of gravel and grade it on, Basin Contracting Limited has then pave with two courses of just been awarded a paving pro- asphalt,” says Isenor. “There’s a ject worth $4.8 million along different job description for all Hants County’s Route 215. the sections. Section three is also Curtis Isenor, chief estimator being cold planed and then will for Basin Contracting Limited, have some patching and two says the project will be broken courses of asphalt as well. Sec- into four sections totalling 16.8 tion two involves just patching kilometres. isolated areas on that section of The first section begins 500 road and then repaving over top metres west of William Connolly of the existing asphalt.” Road and runs 7.5 kilometres Brad Scott, controller for Basin easterly. Contracting Limited, says one of The second section starts ap- the unique characteristics of this proximately seven kilometres job is that they will be putting east of William Connolly Road some recycled material into the and continues for 4.9 kilometres asphalt mix. easterly. Of the millings from the cold The third section starts approx- planning done on sections one imately 400 metres east of the and three, the province will keep Stirling Brook community line 80 per cent and Basin Contracting and continues easterly toward Limited will be entitled to 20 per Selma for 4.4 kilometres. cent. The fourth section of the job, “What’s unique about this pro- and one of the first things they’ll ject is that we will have to use 15 do, involves replacing a wooden per cent recycled asphalt pave- cross culvert with a new concrete ment (RAP) in the first course of structure. our asphalt mix,” says Scott. “I “We’ll get the structure in sec- believe this is the first time they tion four done,” says Isenor, “and tendered a project this way to then we’ll schedule the other allow recycled material to go sections based on its completion. back into the asphalt mix.” We should begin work by July 20, When the tender for this job but the work has just been award- was called, says Isenor, the com- ed and there are still some meet- pany had the option of bidding on ings and things to be finalized. it in the standard specification or The job is scheduled to be fin- bidding on it using RAP. They ished by October 31.” chose to bid using RAP. The job will entail cold plan- “There’s no change in the meth- ning in sections one and three, od it’s put down,” says Scott, “the which means grinding the exist- alteration is where you actually ing asphalt, removing it at a spec- introduce it into your asphalt ified thickness and hauling it to plant. We are under renovations sites determined by the depart- in our asphalt plant in Elmsdale ment of transportation and infra- that will allow us to put RAP into Joseph Robichaud Photography structure renewal. our plant mix as we make it.” A road worker on the job recently on Kempt Road in Halifax. NOVA SCOTIA ROAD BUILDERS ASSOCIATION Membership List se ORDINARY MEMBERS ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Shop G & R Kelly Enterprises Ltd. dho s CAT Shop l Aberdeen Paving Ltd. Hy nd le Technica Supplie Alva Construction Ltd. Gateway Materials Ltd. a care Flexib Co fety s and upling s st Sa alysis Hand Basin Contracting Ltd. GE Canada Equipment Financing GP Mac co meeting financing sfilms An Tools GEMTEC Ltd. ms Analysis meeting Chapman Bros. Construction Ltd. Con hine progra ams Parts GEOCON Atlantic Ltd. tr The progr for Cumberland Paving Gu ol & CAT non r Dexter Construction Co. Ltd. Gerald Battist Trucking Ltd. ida Rental St equ CAT Custome Spe nce fle ores’ ipmen Industrial Cold Milling Gillis Truckways Inc. cia xible ter Equipment (N t Service Grant Thornton list and ms exus) Highland Asphalt Limited competitive investment greements Modern Enterprises Ltd. Graymont Eastern Canada rate Ove A Hertz Equipment Rental s analysis r (CSA) Municipal Ready-Mix Ltd. ing Holcim (Canada) Inc. Reman (EIA) THEIR SALES rthmov 300 Nova Construction Co. Ltd. HSBC Bank Canada nd Ea tals ren Ocean Contractors Ltd. Parts a PITCH fundamen tal units Job-s Hydraulic Systems Ltd. ts aulic ctions ite Ocean Paving Ltd. Imperial Oil Ltd. componen Hydr produ analys S.W. Weeks Construction Ltd. Inspec-Sol Inc. est nalysis is t s a Irving Oil Limited enche Price e AFFILIATE MEMBERS K & D Pratt Group Inc. b Complet ACL Construction Ltd. O Spe aulic K & M Inspection Consultants Ltd. pen cializ hydr B Spicer Construction L.S.W. Wear Parts Ltd. Dynamometers/ Satur shop ed repair Beaver Marine Ltd transmission days s and Lafarge Canada Inc. tooling service Conrad Bros. Ltd. Liebherr Canada Expedited & engine CAT Costin Paving & Contracting Lockhart Truck Center parts Custom D.W. Matheson & Sons Construction Ltd. Maccaferri Canada Ltd. veries & Certified deli welding Access t Eastern Fence Erectors MacKays Truck & Trailer Ltd. More th rication o the Rebuild an85 fab Global Elmsdale Landscaping Ltd. Mac Williams Engineering Limited Caterpill shops Ca C ar terpillar England Paving & Contracting Ltd. Maritime Testing (1985) Ltd. ertified Used Martin Marietta Materials Canada Ltd. Techni 5 Parts Higgins Construction cians 5 and networ uid McAsphalt Industries Ltd. certified C Parts k On sitefl Howard E. Little Excavating Ltd. 8 ontaminat ice lab J.R. Eisener Contracting McLennan Sales Div. of EMCO lube trucks enient ion Serv analysis Conv Control artments Maritime Fence Ltd. Metso Minerals Canada Inc. 50 cations Dep ) Miller Tire Services Ltd and lo (SOS Northern Contracting Limited Field s Nova Enterprises Ltd. ice truck Parts / Roto Mill Services (Atlantic) Ltd. Serv ange Sackville Trenching Ltd. Nova International Ltd. Repair exch t Ormac Industrial Supply omponen Trax Construction Ltd. OSCO Concrete tions C ange Will-Kare Paving & Contracting Ltd. Op exch P. Clarke & Co. Inc. Parts and Machine Parts for Trucks, Inc. Da Service cy Online p arts ore appr ASSOCIATE MEMBERS il Emergen Mobile B aisals R.S.T. Industries Ltd. deli y Pa salesreps. ervice ordering and in 3091592 Nova Scotia Limited ve rts parts s Welding spection Reinforced Earth Co. Ltd. ry (PSSRs) 4 /7 24 /7 s Advanced Composite Structures Limited CAT from 2 Aggregate Equipment Ltd. Reliant Traffi c Control depo Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (Canada) Ltd he ts rvice Alfred J. Bell & Grant Ltd. tateoft Se Planned Roadtec Inc. S t ining ma Allstar Rebar Ltd. art pain tra s inten Analysis of Rockico Truck & Trailer Sales Ltd ervi ance ALPA Equipment Company Ltd Sancton Equipment Inc. facility ces ( ground AMEC Earth & Environmental Ltd. PM) eng Seaboard/Harmac Transportation Group ar aging Archibald Drilling & Blasting (1986) Ltd. F otal Custom terpill tooling ( GET) CAT c ertified Serco Distribution s ull T track dozer Ca ARMTEC LTD. Shaw Group Limited erv tenance& Serv Bucket/ ancial & dealer Arrow Construction Products Ltd. m ic main ices pection fin SMS Equipment Inc achinee repair ins services Your used eq uipment Atlantic Explosives Ltd. Sojourn Signs s ) .catused.com Atlantic Industries Limited hop (TMR Business www Source Atlantic rator Part Atlantic Tractors & Equipment Ltd. South Shore Ready-Mix Ope Consignment cal ner Axis Mobility Ltd. ining Inside Techni Since19 Stanhope Simpson Insurance Ltd. tra sales Communicators 27 Barrett Enterprises Limited Stantec Consulting Ltd Sales Bird-Stairs Represen Strescon Ltd. tatives Black & McDonald Ltd. Strictly Sales & Service Inc. Bluewave Energy Strongco Equipment Ltd. Bourque Security Services NS The Cat Rental Store/Hewitt Rentals Brenntag Canada Inc. Trans East Trailers Ltd Britney Conveyor Ltd Trout River Industries Halifax/Dartmouth Bathurst Canadian Salt Company Ltd. Turf Masters Landscaping Ltd. Casey Concrete Ltd. United Rentals of Canada Inc. 175 Akerley Boulevard 1925 Hall Court CBCL Ltd. Universal Truck & Trailer Dartmouth, NS Bathurst, NB Classic Freight Systems Ltd. Urquhart-MacDonald & Associates T: (902) 468-0581 T: (506) 548-9871 Coastal Bulk Transport Ltd. V. J. Rice Concrete Ltd. Conestoga-Rovers & Associates Ltd W. S. Tyler Canada Consbec Inc. Wade Atlantic Sydney Moncton Fredericton Craig Manufacturing Ltd. Wajax Industries Ltd. Creighton Rock Drill Ltd. Wallace Equipment Ltd. 135 Frenchvale Road 11 Lynds Avenue 165 Urquhart Cres, RR#1 CSP Web-Based Management Inc. Weightronic Canada Inc. Balls Creek, NS Moncton, NB Vanier Industrial Park Cubex Limited Wilcraft Concrete Services T: (902) 564-8166 T: (506) 852-4545 Fredericton, NB Downeast Communications Wilson Equipment Ltd. Dyno Nobel Ltd. Wolseley Engineered Pipe Group T: (506) 452-6651 www.atlcat.ca Earthmover Atlantic Ltd Wolseley Waterworks Fraser & Hoyt Insurance Ltd. Yarmouth Bloomfield Charlottetown 25 Cottage Street 66 Gard Road 130 Sherwood Rd, RR#3 Yarmouth, NS Bloomfield, PE Charlottetown, PE T: (902) 742-7673 T: (902) 853-3003 T: (902) 894-7329 2 9 4 9 000 2 E8 Saturday, July 18, 2009 The Chronicle Herald Road builders using more green technologies By Ken Cashin Special Features Writer While road building in Nova Scotia is a major driver of the local economy, it’s also one of the province’s most progressive industries. The sector is implementing a number of green technologies and ways to use resources more efficiently to help reduce the environmental impact of con- struction. It’s also winning awards for doing so. Ocean Contractors recently won the 2009 Resource Recovery Fund Board Nova Scotia’s Mobius Environmental Award for innovation in waste reduction. Ocean was recognized for its innovation in the support and development of an asphalt shin- gle recycling system through a partnership with Halifax C&D Recycling. Ocean is the only hot-mix asphalt producer in Canada to use recycled asphalt shingle grit. With this green technology solu- tion, Ocean has diverted from landfill roughly 3,558 metric tonnes of recycled asphalt shin- Contributed gle grit product over the last Ocean Contractors recently won the 2009 Resource Recovery Fund Board of Nova Scotia’s Mobius Environmental Award for innova- three years. tion in waste reduction. In 2008, almost all of Ocean’s private hot-mix asphalt paving jobs used a percentage of recy- cled hot-mix asphalt shingle grit product for a total of more than 1,395 metric tonnes. With the Mobius Award, Ocean was also recognized for partnering with Halifax C&D in lobbying the Department of Transportation to agree to use Ocean’s recycled shingle grit pavement product in a pro- vincial road, which was the first time this was done anywhere in the world. “Green construction is the wave of the future, it’s the way the industry is heading,” says Ocean president, John Flem- ming. “We want to be part of this push toward a greener industry.” Flemming says clients today are not only interested in getting a good price and top quality; they also want to know what the company’s position is on the environment. He says it’s a feather in your cap if you can offer green initiatives as part of Contributed your package. In 2008, almost all of Ocean Contractor’s private hot-mix asphalt paving jobs used a percentage of recycled hot-mix asphalt shingle In addition to recycling tear- off shingles and using the mate- grit product for a total of more than 1,395 metric tonnes. rial in their hot mix asphalt, Ocean has also begun putting claimer at its Dartmouth plant, ideas and new ways of doing reclaimed asphalt pavement where surplus or ‘waste’ con- things. If you’re environmentally (RAP) materials into their mix. crete can be separated into its conscious at all, you can make a Using RAP materials saves on base components and re-in- big difference.” new asphalt cement and also troduced into new production. Flemming says the key is reduces the cost of trucking Most recently, Ocean installed getting governments and regu- materials to the road building a process water management latory bodies on board. He says site, as there is less need for system at its Halifax location. the process can be slow, but virgin aggregate. The innovative Enviro-Port well worth it in the end. To implement the RAP tech- technology cuts water consump- He points out that both the nology, Ocean uses a vertical tion and virtually eliminates provincial department of trans- impact crusher and screens, surface run-off. portation and HRM have now which effectively recycle an Flemming says even the water developed specifications that existing road to make a new used to wash the trucks gets regulate the use of RAP materi- one. The equipment crushes the re-circulated and re-used. als for road construction. roadways’ existing asphalt pave- “Companies have to be willing “This is very positive for our ment into smaller aggregate to make fundamental changes if industry,” says Flemming. “It sizes which is then added to the they want to go green,” says will help push companies to new asphalt mix. Flemming. “You’ve got to be take the next step and imple- Ocean’s ready mix concrete willing to put up capital costs ment green technologies. It will Contributed division is also investing in and project your rate of return be good for the environment In addition to recycling tear-off shingles and using the material in green technologies. The com- over time. It’s not difficult if and good for the industry over- their hot mix asphalt, Ocean has also begun putting reclaimed pany operates a concrete re- you’re willing to look at new all.” asphalt pavement materials into their mix. NSRBA members always in search of new ways to reduce environmental footprint By Ken Cashin one million square yards annually. and seedlings. members committed to the envi- asphalt recycling 30 years ago. Special Features Writer With its many years of experience For many years Elmsdale has ronment is Roto-Mill Services We’ve grown continually, adding in turf management, Elmsdale is spread reused bales of hay pur- Ltd., an innovator in road building various methods over the years, Although it’s true that the envi- the sod supplier trusted by gov- chased from local farmers. The recycling. with a focus on In-Place Asphalt ronment is top of mind with prac- ernments, landscape contractors, company also uses silt fences on First established in 1979, a recycling.” tically every industry these days, city parks, grounds superintend- work sites to protect water qual- small company was formed to The In-Place process utilizes it’s not altogether new in Nova ents and homeowners. ity in nearby streams, rivers, address the needs of recycling existing aggregate and residual Scotia’s road building industry. One of the key environmentally lakes and bays. asphalt pavement for road recon- asphalt cement with a small addi- For decades, NSRBA members friendly methods Elmsdale uses is Elmsdale president George struction. tion of new asphalt cement to have been factoring the envi- a planting process called hydro- Coupar says the public has come From those early days of only form a stabilized base material. ronment into their decision mak- seeding. An alternative to the to expect that great care will be one milling machine, Roto-Mill The process reduces the need ing and finding new ways to re- traditional process of broad- taken to lessen the environmental has flourished as an industry for non-renewable resources and duce their environmental foot- casting or sowing dry seed, with impact of construction. leader within the Ontario and requires much less energy than print. hydroseeding a mixture of water, “People today want to see a Atlantic markets. Roto-Mill re- conventional road reconstruction seed, fertilizer, mulch and lime is new highway looking like it has cently opened an Atlantic Office or rehabilitation. Elmsdale Landscaping Ltd. sprayed over prepared ground in dropped out of the sky,” says in Cooks Brook, Nova Scotia. Roto-Mill also produces large Elmsdale Landscaping Ltd. has a uniform layer. Hydroseeding Coupar. “In our industry we have Roto-Mill’s Chris Thompson amounts of reclaimed asphalt been in business for 55 years and promotes quick germination and to be as environmentally friendly says the company is constantly pavement which can be utilized in is one of the largest landscaping inhibits soil erosion. as possible, with everything we looking for and developing new the hot mix asphalt. contractors in Atlantic In addition to lessening the do. With today’s methods, you can technologies to help in the ad- “We’re committed to sustain- Canada. Known for its superior environmental impact, hydro- build almost anything in an envi- vancement of road building recy- able road construction,” says nursery sod production, today the seeding is a highly effective plant- ronmentally friendly way.” cling processes. Thompson. “We’re reducing the company maintains over 1,000 ing method, as the mulch in the “The environment is very im- need for non-renewable re- acres in production and has the hydroseed mixture helps main- Roto-Mill Services Ltd. portant to us,” says Thompson. sources and providing a cost facilities to harvest more than tain the moisture level of the seed Another of the many NSRBA “Our company was founded on effective, quality product.” Aberdeen England Paving & Contracting Ltd. SERVING NORTH EASTERN NOVA SCOTIA & CAPE BRETON LT D. Paving Ltd. 1648 ADDINGTON FORKS RD. ANTIGONISH, NS Commercial, Residential and Highway Paving Ph. 902-863-3231 Sand and Gravel Sales • Custom Crushing • Heavy Equipment Rentals Fax: 902-863-2137 20016024

1-866-400-2276 20010829 www.englandpaving.com The Chronicle Herald Saturday, July 18, 2009 E9 Road building career smart idea By Ken Cashin pal Group of Companies, the Dexter In- Special Features Writer stitute is a full partnership between Dexter Construction Co. Ltd. and NSCC. Now in Pursuing a career in road building is a its eight year, the institute offers a two- smart idea. Firstly, there’s lots of work. year heavy construction professional pro- In Canada since 1993 construction em- gram. ployment has outpaced all other occupa- Some of the many course topics offered tions, growing by almost 13 per cent. The top 20 per cent of all individuals include heavy equipment theory and oper- working in heavy construction earn over ation, surveying, drafting, geology, and $45,000 annually, while the average salary project management. for this profession is about $39,000 per The institute accepts 32 students per year. year and offers two paid work terms. The employment forecast is also encour- Those who meet and surpass program aging. Experts say four to five per cent of requirements receive a post secondary the local industry’s 30,000 construction certificate and are guaranteed employment workers are retiring every year, creating with Dexter Construction. The positions huge employment opportunities for today’s offered range from equipment operators youth. and surveyors to site supervisors and Also, federal and provincial govern- project managers. ments are expected to invest significantly Joseph Robichaud Photography The course covers both theory and in infrastructure renewal over the next few The road building industry today employs people from a wide variety of disciplines. years, which will give the industry a seri- fieldwork. Students study in areas such as: ous boost in public sector work. safety, computer fundamentals, communi- cation, applied mathematics, human rela- Training tions, heavy equipment theory and oper- Deciding upon a career is one thing, but ation, geology/topography, surveying ba- finding the right school or training in- sics, site preparation and heavy construc- stitution isn’t always easy. Fortunately, tion. several post secondary programs are of- The Dexter Institute’s Shalini Richards fered in Nova Scotia that are geared to says the program exposes students to a jobs in heavy construction. broad range of learning experiences. The In 2007, Nova Scotia Community Col- institute’s key advantage, she says, is that www.mcasphalt.com lege’s (NSCC) School of Trades and Tech- it allows you to try out various possible nology introduced its civil engineering career choices before committing to one in technology program. particular. She adds that it shows young The two-year course includes five weeks people that heavy civil construction offers of on-the-job training and an optional cooperative education. The program trains much more than a good paying summer people for the planning, designing, con- job. struction, and maintenance of structures “The challenge right now in our indus- and public works, and altering geography try,” says Richards, “is to change the per- to suit human needs. ception that it’s only seasonal work. Civil engineering technologists work on We’re trying to break from that and get various aspects of built structures, high- the message out that construction is defi- ways, and marine structures and projects. nitely a career choice — there are definite- The program is designed to provide an ly opportunities here for growth.” overview of the field in the context of She points out that construction today is environmental sustainability, so that stu- much more technologically driven and dents can develop projects that are feasi- employs people from a variety of dis- Asphalt ble, practical and ecologically sensitive. ciplines, from engineers and architects to Emulsions Dexter Institute IT specialists. The industry, she adds, is Asphalt Sealants becoming seen as a legitimate career path Seeing the need for more local training, and Membranes for many people, including women. the construction industry and educational Performance Graded Toll Free: 1.800.268.4238 “Dexter Construction is expanding and facilities in the province are partnering Asphalt Cements Central: 416.281.8181 Quebec: 514.645.1691 together to help meet the labour needs of our company offers many opportunities Atlantic: 902.468.3733 Western:403.279.7229 the future. for professional development,” says Specialty and Custom A great example of this is the Dexter Richards. “Our industry has a very bright Blended Asphalts [email protected] Institute, which opened in 2001. Emerging future. It’s not just a job; it can grow into a from Dexter Construction’s parent, Munici- career.”

the full journey through their qualifica- tions. Placement program “What we’re trying to do,” says MacCul- continued from / E3 loch, “is identify opportunities for young people coming into our industry. We’re tion’s apprenticeship division, local school trying to provide a better way to connect boards, NSCC, and in consultation with employers and workers together.” industry representatives. The initiative is In addition to addressing future training designed to increase the number of youth needs, she says, a key challenge in the exploring a career in the construction years ahead will be to hold onto the indus- trades. try’s workforce by providing them with Students enrolled in the program are consistent employment. pre-screened by CANS and provided with Long-term, stable funding for public up to 100 hours of work-place orientation sector projects, she says, will go a long and safety training prior to a summer work way toward ensuring that the industry placement. They have the potential to earn develops and maintains a skilled work- co-operative education high school credits force. for their participation, as well as time and “The challenge is getting to the point training credits toward a formal appren- where we have stable public expenditure,” ticeship. says MacCulloch. “Many of our most The students are also registered as skilled workers will soon be retiring, so Construction Trades Pre-Apprentices and we’ll need consistent employment to at- are required to maintain logbooks. Mentor- tract and hold enough qualified trades ship training for their supervisors is also people here to do this kind of work. If you an essential element of the program. don’t have things to build, you won’t have So far, 40 students have participated in the people who can build them, either.” Building Futures for Youth. Those who She adds that while government com- want to apply can do so through their mitments to infrastructure renewal pro- school’s co-op education teacher. grams are encouraging, the spending has MacCulloch says the industry doesn’t not rolled out in a timely manner and the seem to have a problem attracting people industry is still waiting for many of the to the trades — the issue is creating ade- projects to get the green light. quate resources in the apprenticeship “We’re cautiously optimistic,” says Mac- system, seats at the training institutions, Culloch. “But, right now we’re sort of on and strategies to support trades people in the edge of our seat.”

A.C.L. Construction Limited is a large civil construction company based out of Halifax, NS that specializes in Municipal Pipe, Blasting, Subdivision Development, Site Services and Earthwork. The company presently does work in various areas of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

21 Frazee Avenue • Dartmouth • NS • B3B 1Z4 P: (902) 481-4535 • F: (902) 481-4545 019

Website: www.aclconstruction.ca 6 2001 E10 Saturday, July 18, 2009 The Chronicle Herald North Dartmouth trunk sewer: Phase 2 By Melanie Furlong Special Features Writer Phase two of the North Dart- mouth Trunk Sewer handles wastewater from the new Dart- mouth Crossing development and completes a connection thus closing a gap that has existed since the 1960s when the trunk sewer was first built. The finishing touches on the North Dartmouth Trunk Sewer project were completed this June when 100 trees and approximate- ly 1,600 shrubs were planted along Lake Banook’s new water- front trail. The walking trail winds along 500 metres of lake shore covering the sewer project. “We had to either build a bigger pumping station or finish this trunk sewer along the shore to handle the increased flows,” says Glenn Woodford, project manager for Terrain Group, the project’s design engineers. “The city also wanted to have more walking trails around the lake and it offered us the ability to put the two projects together.” The project was a combined effort by Halifax Water and Hali- fax Regional Municipality. Steve Hogan, project manager for Dexter Construction, the project contractor, says pumping Lake Banook to lower the water level by two metres was the most challenging part of the job since it had to be done in the winter. Dexter Construction had to stop lowering the lake’s water level by Christmas Eve so the lake would be at its natural level by this spring. It was completed on schedule. “We used three 12-inch and two 10-inch diesel pumps to pump the water into Sullivan’s Pond where there’s a sluice way that runs from there into the harbour,” says Hogan. “We had to lower the water level to install the sewer pipe and we also performed the work at that time for the World Championship canoe course, including building some new anchors for their lane wire sys- tem.” Although the original design report recommended high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is used in the project, Woodford says they had concerns about its buoy- ancy and the amount of curvature Contributed the HDPE could handle. Phase Two of the Dartmouth North Trunk Sewer should have a life-span of about 100 years. “We could actually get a tighter radius of curvature using con- culty in bending it to follow the layers of protection on the pipe to ration over time. A very special- eliminate any possibility of buoy- crete pipe.” “Because it’s so close shoreline, as well as installing it eliminate any chance for leak- ized pipe design was required, ancy due to the high water table to the lake and below the water in a wide, open trench.” age.” including waterproofing, pipeline and close proximity to the lake. level, it could float and we’d need It was decided to use a special- Rylan MacDow, sales manager alignments and section weights.” The wall thickness of the pipe to have a complicated tie-down ly designed concrete pipe, sup- for Shaw Pipe, says “The trunk The pipeline changes direction was increased from a standard system,” says Woodford. “Be- plied from Shaw Pipe. sewer will carry sanitary effluent more than 10 times over a length thickness of 140 mm to 230 mm cause the lake is used for boating “The water tightness of the from Highway 111 to Brookdale of more than 500 metres by using in order to achieve the required in the summer, the work had to trunk sewer was a major focus, Cresent for many years, and since many radius pipe sections and 6,260 kilograms per pipe section. take place in the fall/winter. We we could not afford any chance this effluent can be corrosive few manholes in a serpentine Phase Two of the Dartmouth also worried about using HDPE in of leaks in the pipeline” says special additives were introduced pipeline installation. North Trunk Sewer should have a cold temperatures and the diffi- Woodford. “We put three different into the pipe to resist any deterio- The pipe was made heavier to life-span of about 100 years. Nova Scotia Road Builders Association completes new website Contributed “The association decided some director for the Nova Scotia Road hosts a useful and up to date Please be sure to check your time ago that a new website Builders Association. membership listing with informa- own member profile to confirm The NSRBA is pleased to ad- would be an important tool to “The association is utilizing this tion on all of our 136 member that all the information listed vise its members that its new increase our public profile, send a crucial tool now to advise its companies.” there is up to date and accurate. website is officially up and run- clearer message about who the members of upcoming events, The site will continue to evolve NSRBA also encourages you to ning as of May of this year. The website has a fresh new Nova Scotia Road Building Asso- allowing them the ability to pay and develop over time as the send your corporate logo to them look and feel, is much more user ciation is, and to better support online for events and member- association determines what so that it can be included with friendly, and will be a valuable our members in the efficient and ship registrations electronically, other functions the membership your other corporate information. tool as the association moves accurate transfer of information,” and the ability to view recent would like to see added or ex- Be sure to check the site out at progressively forward. says Rylan MacDow, associate tender postings. The site also panded. www.NSRBA.ca

OCEAN PAVING LIMITED Proud member of the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association A reputable paving company in business in 113 Elmsdale Road, Port Hawkesbury for over 35 years Elmsdale, NS B2S 1K7 Providing quality asphalt work to RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL and Phone: (902) 883-2291 INDUSTRIAL customers FREE ESTIMATES Toll Free: (800) 219-SODS (7637) Located in the Light Industrial Park, Port Hawkesbury Fax: (902) 883-2761 16 MACINTOSH AVE. • Hydroseeding Ensuring construction work proceeds in an • Hay mulching PORT HAWKESBURY, NS B9A 3K5 • Sediment Control environmentally friendly manner throughout PHONE: 1-902-625-3130 FAX: 1-902-625-0400 • Land Revegitation Eastern Canada. 20007053 20007129

Road Construction ASPHALT PAVING • MATERIALS ENGINEERING & TESTING P.O. Box 70 • GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 20013290 ■ Road Construction Enfi eld, NS B2T 1C6 • ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS ■ Parking Lots • ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITTING Offi ce: Elmsdale ■ Concrete Curbs & Sidewalks 902-883-2235 • INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE & AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT ■ Sand, Stone & Gravel Fax: Elmsdale ■ Equipment Rentals 902-883-8881 97 Troop Ave Phone: (902) 468-6486 Dartmouth, NS B3B 2A7 Fax: (902) 468-4919 www.maritimetesting.ca [email protected] www.basin-gallant.com 20007065 The Chronicle Herald Saturday, July 18, 2009 E11

Joseph Robichaud Photography Initiatives like the RCMP construction zone safety campaign and the doubling of work-site speeding fines are having a positive impact on construction zone safety. Traffic control essential at construction sites

By Ken Cashin is also the region’s only 3M The Point Lepreau project, sites can be very dangerous can with what they’ve got. If Special Features Writer certified private sign shop. says Slauenwhite, was one of places,” says Slauenwhite, “so people paid more attention to Input from Sojourn was Sojourn’s most challenging jobs you have to realize that the the road signs and gave the As the road building industry called upon recently when the and showcased its planning traffic control workers are there workers a little more respect, continues to grow in Nova Sco- government of Nova Scotia process. for your benefit. From a safety everyone would be better off for tia, so too is the need for traffic updated the province’s Tempo- “When it comes to safety, you standpoint, if they weren’t it.” control at construction sites. rary Workplace Traffic Control can’t cut corners,” says Slauen- around it wouldn’t be pretty — However, Slauenwhite says Today, temporary workplace Manual 2009. white. “Before we do anything your chances of staying safe initiatives like the RCMP con- traffic control has developed The guideline is approved for we take the traffic control would be a lot slimmer.” struction zone safety campaign into an important sector of the use on roads in Nova Scotia by manual and put together a solid He points out that Sojourn industry. Companies that spe- the Minister of Transportation plan. We look at every require- staff are certified by the Nova and the doubling of work site cialize in traffic control offer and Infrastructure Renewal. It ment in detail, and then we Scotia Construction Safety speeding fines are having a much needed products and sets minimum standards for inform our crews, provide the Association. positive impact. services that help improve safe- construction, maintenance and gear, and make sure everything “You’ve got to realize that “It’s definitely working,” he ty conditions for road workers utility work on or by roads. is done right. We have to do traffic control workers don’t says. “You can tell that motor- and the motoring public. Sojourn helped critique the everything by the book or else always get the full cooperation ists are getting the message and A case in point is a local busi- manual and the company’s input everyone’s in trouble.” of the work crews,” says Slauen- slowing down. They’re not com- ness and NSRBA member called was used to help draft some of The chal- white. “They do the best they ing at you as fast anymore.” Sojourn Traffic Control. Cele- the specs. lenges in brating its 20th anniversary this “Traffic safety is our busi- traffic con- year, Sojourn provides supplies ness,” says owner Stan Slauen- trol, says and services for clients of all white. “We have the most ex- Slauenwhite, sizes, from small contractors to pertise in the industry and strive are that some of the region’s biggest to maintain the highest stan- sometimes construction companies, as well dards in safety, which makes us motorists fail as all three levels of govern- the leader in traffic control for to heed the ment. Atlantic Canada. We’re able to road signs. He Sojourn is the largest pro- meet our client’s safety needs 24 says people ducer of traffic control equip- hours a day, seven days a often become ment in Atlantic Canada and is week.” impatient called upon for jobs ranging Sojourn has worked on some with traffic from set ups for small second- of the region’s largest and most slowdowns, ary roads to shutdowns on the complex heavy civil construc- see detours as largest 100-series highways. tion projects. These have in- a nuisance, The company supplies a large cluded the Angus L. Macdonald and some- variety of roadway signs and Bridge lane expansion, Seal times don’t other equipment like flashing Island Bridge deck replacement, treat traffic light units (FLUs), arrow the natural gas pipeline through control work- boards, temporary traffic light Nova Scotia, the NS Internation- ers with the systems, variable message al Air Show, and the NB Power proper re- boards, traffic cones, traffic transformer move from Saint spect. barrels, and barricades. Sojourn John Harbour to Point Lepreau. “Roadwork

the charity of choice. “I had the privilege to select the STAR Charity work program,” says White. “I was familiar with continued from / E6 the program and know a couple of the children who participate. The NSRBA has received to date. The money is being takes great pride in supporting charity used to purchase much needed equipment for the unique needs of the program’s initiatives like this one. We’re able to make participants. The NSRBA’s support has donations because of our golf tournament also helped the charity fund more exten- and other events. For the last two years sive volunteer training. we’ve made donations resulting from our Paul White, who was NSRBA president AGM silent auction. This practice will at the time, selected the STAR program as continue.” FIELDFIELD EXPERTSEXPERTS

SPECIALISTS IN COMMERCIAL, CONSTRUCTION, CONTRACT BONDING, MANUFACTURING, SEAFOOD INDUSTRY, FLEETS AND PERSONAL INSURANCE A Proud member of The Nova Scotia Road Builders Association

3845 Joseph Howe Drive, Suite 300 Halifax, NS B3L 4H9 Ph: (902) 454-8641 Fax: (902) 455-2267 www.stanhopesimpson.com 20007050 E12 Saturday, July 18, 2009 The Chronicle Herald

Todd Gillis Photo Nova Scotia Road Builders Association members completed this bridge last year as part of the ongoing Highway 101 twinning project. Heavy equipment goes high tech with GPS By Melanie Furlong tion. It’s really amazing to watch.” Special Features Writer Ron Dunn, highway division project manager, for Weeks Con- Global Positioning System struction, says they just pur- (GPS) technology has been chased their first piece of equip- around since the mid-’90s, but its ment with GPS this year — a use in heavy equipment is fairly motor grader. recent. “We’re just getting into it as a For the last three years, an company ourselves,” says Dunn, accugrade system that uses GPS “but it’s the direction we’ll be technology to provide more accu- heading in. Our operators had to rate grading has been offered in be trained on how to use the all Caterpillar machines including software and equipment, but I on blades of motor graders, bull- consider it another tool in the dozers and excavators. arsenal of road building. As equip- The technology offers users ment and technology evolve, it’s substantial cost-savings in terms just another thing that makes of time, fuel and labour on stake- their day easier.” less job sites, says James Bond, Dunn says when working on a marketing manager for Atlantic surface, they input the design into Tractors. the motor grader’s computer. Simply put, sensors on the “It knows where it’s trying to machines’ blades pick up GPS level the material to and it knows Joseph Robichaud Photography signals from satellites and let the the finished surface,” he says. “If For the last three years, an accugrade system that uses GPS technology to provide more accurate machine know where it is in it’s grading a road so that we can grading has been offered in all Caterpillar machines including on blades of motor graders, bulldoz- relation to a base receiver over a pave over it, the finished surface ers and excavators like the one shown above. fixed point. would be the top of the gravel. Bond says, “It can come within The computer automatically specific points around the site for the finished grading and assists than a GPS system can on its own. one and three centimetres of adjusts the blade so it’s putting you to grade to and there was a the operator in better achieving “It controls the height of the accuracy without any operator the material in the right spots.” lot done by the feel and sight of the finished surface.” screed within less than 10 milli- involvement; it does it completely Dunn says the technology the grader operator,” he says. Topcon’s Millimetre GPS Add metres,” says Barbick. on its own. It’s fully automatic reduces the chance of error be- “In jobs like sports tracks, for On is an additional product that “The system saves time, money and once the grade gets to a tween points as the entire surface example, the standards are very goes on graders or pavers. and gives millimetre accuracy for certain point, the operator just is essentially documented. high and the work must be within Mike Barbick, sales manager your paver, assuring the mat has to watch the screen and make “With the old technology, you’d small tolerances. This technology for On Grade, says it can tighten thickness during high-production sure it’s going in the right direc- have a surveyor go out and lay takes a lot of the thinking out of up the vertical accuracy more paving.” Modern quarries different from what the general public may perceive By Melanie Furlong Nova Scotia Mining Association, Oram says that modern quar- mental monitoring for things such which leads to misconceptions Special Features Writer says most materials used in road ries are very different from what as water levels and water quality about them. building are blasted from quarries the public may perceive. that are reported to Nova Scotia “Afterwards, quarries are re- Aggregate, defined as materials and then crushed. Sand, gravel, “Historical issues with quarries Environment. quired to be reclaimed. You can such as sand, gravel and rock, or and pea gravel are usually freely included noisiness, dust, and “Before a quarry is developed fill them up as lakes, re-shape crushed stone, is an important dug from pits. damage to domestic wells,” says there are environmental baseline them or create recreational op- element of road construction, “You want the rocks to be nice Oram, “but in a properly designed surveys to complete to make sure portunities out of them. While building construction, landscap- and angular so the asphalt or modern quarry you can address no special features are being they are being developed, the soil ing and much more. concrete can stick to them and all those things.” impacted,” says Oram. According to the department of compaction is easier to achieve,” Oram says it’s important to Previously, quarries were pro- can be saved and used for recla- natural resources, Nova Scotia’s says Oram. note that the modern approach to jects of the department of trans- mation later.” pits and quarries produced “You can picture pea gravel quarry development and oper- portation, not contractors, and Today, more than 100 quarries 6,931,074 metric tons of crushed that’s nice and rounded from pits, ation is very different. reclamation was not required. are operating in Nova Scotia stone and 3,913,303 metric tons of but when you make concrete and New quarries are required to People may still see abandoned under guidelines administered sand and gravel in 2006. asphalt, it’s not going to stick as have specific set-back distances quarries on the side of the road through Nova Scotia Environ- Peter Oram, president of the well to that rounded surface.” from homes as well as environ- that weren’t reclaimed properly, ment.

ASPHALT LIMITED A PROUD MEMBER OF THE NOVA SCOTIA ROAD BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

SPECIALIZING IN: SUPPLIERS OF: • Highway construction • Commercial Sites • Hot-Mix Asphalt • Warm-Mix Asphalt • Parking Lots • Residential Construction • Crushed Stone • Sand and Gravel

HALIFAX KENTVILLE ANNAPOLIS ROYAL

209 Kearney Lake Road 9 River Street Hwy. 1 Granville Ferry 2 688

tel: (902) 443-0440 tel: (902) 678-7351 tel: (902) 532-5124 1 00 2 The Chronicle Herald Saturday, July 18, 2009 E13

File photo Summer diversions Traffic headed towards Hammonds Plains Road is diverted from Giles Dr., backdropped by construction on a stretch of a closed section of the Hammonds Plains Road July 7. Alva Construction Limited awarded Beech Hill overpass contract By Melanie Furlong maximize highway safety. The “We hope we can get it done particular challenges on the job crushing and pile driving. Special Features writer new highway will run just outside this year before the winter and it should be pretty straight- Alva Construction Limited the Town of Antigonish and the months,” says MacDonald. forward.” currently has several projects on Alva Construction Limited has bridges are being put in near The overpass structures will be MacDonald says he believes the go, including the twinning of just been awarded a contract Beech Hill just east of town.” built off the current highway 104 this structure is the first of many Hwy 125 near Sydney; Construc- from the department of trans- Construction is set to begin in away from the motoring traffic transportation projects to come tion of Spank’s Bridge in Guys- portation and infrastructure mid-August or earlier after the over an access road to the high- in the Antigonish area in the next borough Co.; and on-going aggre- renewal to build two single span department of transportation way. five or six years. gate production to provide for bridges in the Antigonish area, says Greg MacDonald, project completes some preliminary “There have been plans to Alva Construction Limited was various paving contractors in the manager. work. re-route traffic on that road established in 1993 and is a fam- area. “The $4-million project is the MacDonald says the provincial around the project,” says Mac- ily-owned and operated company. Alva Construction Limited is first step in building the new election meant they were several Donald, “so it will be nice to The medium-sized general con- the general contractor on the Antigonish by-pass,” says Mac- months late in being awarded work on this particular structure tractor specializes in heavy con- Beech Hill overpass project and Donald, “which will create a this contract and they are still not and not have to worry about any struction including earth work, will be able to perform 90-95 per twinned highway designed to sure of the time frame for com- of the issues with the motoring structures, marine structures, cent of the work involved with alleviate traffic congestion and pletion. traffic. We aren’t anticipating any cast-in-place concrete, gravel their own forces. Industrial Cold Milling a division of Miller Group Inc.

✦ Asphalt Cold Planning & Profi ling ✦ Concrete Planning ✦ Rumble Strips ✦ Chip Seals ✦ Micro Surfacing ✦ Cold Mixed Asphalt Paving ✦ Asphalt Pulverizing & Stabilizing ✦ Foamed Asphalt Stabilization ✦ CIP Asphalt Recycling

Berry Mills, NB Tel: (506) 857-0112 Fax: (506) 867-0490 Dartmouth, NS Tel: (902) 468-1448 Fax: (902) 468-1921 20007060 E14 Saturday, July 18, 2009 The Chronicle Herald

www.nsrba.ca NNOVAOVA SSCOTIACOTIA RROADOAD

BBUILDERSUILDERS AASSOCIATIONSSOCIATION special advertising feature 20009520 On-site rock crushing by-law amendments

By Melanie Furlong process and the potential impacts Special Features Writer on the environment and sur- rounding neighbourhood.” Halifax Regional Municipality After various stake-holder and made amendments to all 21 land public meetings, amendments to use by-laws this February in the land use by-laws were decid- order to prescribe controls for ed upon. portable rock crushers as a devel- The by-laws enable the use of opment tool accessory to con- portable rock crushers as a tem- struction and demolition projects. porary use through the permitting In the past, a rock crusher process; differentiate between being used to crush native rock to site development practices and be used on a specific construc- demolition practices that involve tion site was considered inciden- temporary rock crushers; control tal to construction and therefore the duration of the temporary a permitted use. use; provide separation distances However, if this rock is being from existing residential or in- crushed and exported to another stitutional buildings for site devel- site, it is considered an industrial opment purposes; provide prop- use and is not permitted in a erty boundary setbacks for demo- number of zones under the land lition purposes; prohibit trans- use by-laws. portation of processed aggregate While investigating a complaint to other off-site locations; and, that crushed rock on a city con- prohibit transportation of rock to struction site was being exported the site for the purpose of on-site a year and a half ago, HRM’s legal processing into aggregate. staff advised that HRM’s land use The amendments also provide by-laws should be amended to for the advancement of the goals clarify regulations with respect to of the Community Energy Plan, these temporary construction as provided for in the Regional uses. Municipal Planning Strategy, by David Lane, a senior planner recognizing and encouraging for planning services in HRM, sustainable practices for demoli- says that the use of a temporary tion and site preparation work. rock crusher for 30 days was This balanced approach is acceptable until some contractors intended to provide the necessary abused that privilege, turning and consistent legislation for their sites into mini-quarries. enforcement of the land use “Some were crushing rock for by-law provisions while advanc- projects on other sites and were ing the efforts of the Municipal- even bringing big rocks to the site ity’s vision for a clean, healthy, and making aggregate there,” says sustainable environment and Lane. “Our shared concern with communities. our counterparts at the Nova Peter Oram, president of the Scotia Department of the Envi- Nova Scotia Mining Association, ronment was the operation of a says the new by-laws may be- quarry without having to go come the model for the province’s through the provincial approval future guidelines.