The Government of Canada is moving forward with a major investment in federal infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador, awarding a $121.6-million construction contract to Pomerleau Inc. for a new Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) facility in St. John’s.
Announced by the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, the project will deliver a modern, Crown-owned federal building at 80 Kelsey Drive that will provide accessible, purpose-built workspace for CRA employees while supporting the agency’s long-term service delivery in the region.
Construction is scheduled to begin this summer, with the facility expected to be completed in 2029.
The investment is designed to do more than replace office space. It also aligns with the federal government’s Buy Canadian Policy, requiring Canadian suppliers and materials to be prioritized throughout construction while creating opportunities for local trades and supporting well-paying careers in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Highlighting the broader economic and public service benefits of the project, Minister Lightbound said, “With this investment in St. John’s, we are making a clear choice: investing in our public services, supporting local jobs, and putting Canadian businesses to work. By modernizing Canada Revenue Agency facilities and prioritizing Canadian suppliers and materials, we are building a stronger economy while delivering better services for Canadians.”
The new facility will provide employees with a modern, accessible workplace designed to support collaboration and enhance the CRA’s ability to meet the needs of Canadians well into the future.
Emphasizing the importance of the project for both employees and taxpayers, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue, said, “The Canada Revenue Agency is proud to mark this important milestone. By providing our employees with a modern, accessible, and collaborative workplace, we are strengthening our ability to deliver high-quality services, support compliance, and respond to the evolving needs of Canadians. This investment reflects our long-term commitment to our employees, the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the effective delivery of public services for years to come.”
The project is also expected to generate economic benefits for the local construction industry while reinforcing the federal government’s commitment to sustainable public infrastructure.
The Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries and Member of Parliament for St. John’s East, underscored the local impact of the investment, stating, “A new federal building here in St. John’s means good work for local trades, and a modern space for public servants to provide leading service to people in this province. This is the kind of investment that keeps good jobs, and good people, in Newfoundland and Labrador and builds strong communities.”
Together, the project represents a long-term investment in both public service delivery and the regional economy, combining modern workplace design with support for Canadian businesses and skilled trades.