Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/354800
The CLT panels were fabricated from beetle-damaged B.C. pine and erected on the site during exceptionally cold, windy weather, says Michael Turner, senior project manager for Stantec. To contend with back-to-back severe winters, the team erected hoarding and heating systems that permitted construction to continue even in the coldest conditions. Finishes were chosen for durability and sustainability and include 180 pre-weathered steel panels and more than 125 exterior precast panels. Inside, more than 25,000 square feet of carpet were laid. High-definition digital screen technology is featured throughout the new terminal, capped by an enormous 200-square-foot video wall in the arrivals hall. An interactive observation area on the top floor will feature information on Wood Buffalo's aviation history and an interactive children's area. Construction on the terminal began in September 2012, with 70 contract and sub- contract trades and up to 250 tradespersons on the site. Accident-free hours worked topped 750,000, Turner reports. "Fort McMurray is a high-demand locale for highly-trained trades people," Turner says. But it takes a personal toll on family life and work-life balance suffers so staff turnover is high. "That staff turnover leads to learn curve issues and retraining for specific tasks, so production can suffer." The site's high water table necessitated 62/ AUGUST 2014 Fort McMurray International Airport Expansion