COCA July 2026 Newsletter
Highlights
Patricia Penney-Rouzes Joins OIRCA
After 12 years with the Association of Millwrighting Contractors of Ontario (AMCO), Patricia Penney-Rouzes will join the Ontario Industrial Roofing Contractors Association (OIRCA) this September. While changing roles, Patricia will remain an active member of the COCA Board, continuing to contribute her experience and leadership to the organization.
Ontario Construction Employment Sees Sharp June Decline
Statistics Canada reported that employment in Ontario’s construction industry fell by 18,400 jobs (3.2%) in June 2026 compared to the previous month and was down 21,700 jobs (3.7%) year-over-year. The decline contrasts with relatively stable overall employment figures across the province.
Bill 216 Webinar Recording Available
COCA has posted the recording and presentation materials from its recent webinar examining Construction Act changes under Bill 216. The session focused on procurement practices and bidding implications for Ontario’s construction sector.
Hazel McCallion LRT Contract Restructured
Metrolinx has restructured the Hazel McCallion LRT project by replacing the original contract with two alliance-model agreements. The change is intended to resolve legal disputes and support project completion, which is now expected in 2028.
New Ontario Driver Licensing Rules
The Ontario government has introduced driver licensing changes aimed at improving safety and reducing fraud. New requirements affect applicants using foreign driving experience and those pursuing a full Class A commercial licence, with some changes taking effect in 2026 and others in 2027.
Darlington Refurbishment Challenges Continue
Two refurbished units at the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station have experienced outages since returning to service. Ontario’s electricity system operator indicates the province has sufficient power supply despite these issues.
Ontario Science Centre Temporary Site Opens
The Ontario Science Centre has opened a temporary location at Harbourfront Centre while construction proceeds on a new permanent facility at Ontario Place. The new Science Centre project is being delivered through an Infrastructure Ontario procurement model valued at approximately $1.04 billion.
Province Seeks Feedback on HOV Lane Changes
Ontario is consulting on a proposal to allow single-occupant vehicles to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes during specified off-peak periods, with the goal of reducing highway congestion.
Political and Industry Updates
The Ontario Progressive Conservatives led all provincial parties in fundraising during the second quarter of 2026, raising more than $2.4 million. Meanwhile, Ajax MPP Rob Cerjanec has withdrawn from the Ontario Liberal Party leadership race.
