b'COVER STORYBALANCING SAFETY WITH AESTHETICSThe mass timber design has come with several anticipated challenges. Houle notes that careful planning and coordination with other trades have been critical to installing the expansions complex electrical and technology systems within a timber structure, preserving structural integrity and meeting fire safety standards. The same attention to planning and trade coordination has ensured compliance with aviation and building codes for systems such as fire alarms, security systems and public address systems.Naturally, fire safety and structural integrity are chief considerations in mass timber builds. The project required a team-wide effort to incorporate advanced fire-resistant treatments and detailed fire modelling to support protection systems and streamline mechanical integration.Ensuring structural integrity has been a top consideration, Samaddar explains. When youre replacing steel with wood beams, we have to make sure that the strength and durability of the structure would be as good as if you were building with steel or anything else.Part of ensuring structural integrity included developing an airtight, moisture-resistant plan. Much of the structure was prefabricated off site, coated for protection and carefully monitored for moisture before being trucked and installed. Advanced planning ensured that conduits were pre-drilled to avoid protrusions, and a mock-up system was built at ground level to guide trades during installation.PREPARING TO LANDYLWs terminal building expansion is set to open in the first quarter of 2026, sooner than our original schedule and right when we need it most, says Samaddar. These things dont happen without people coming together, solving issues and continuing the work.Phase 1 will continue in 2026 with upgrades to the existing terminal, including food and beverage offerings and new washrooms. Phase 2 is anticipated to begin in 2030. It will see crews expanding the terminal building, repurposing the existing arrivals area, relocating various services (e.g., vehicle rentals, tourism booths) and further expanding the departures lounge to increase capacity.SICA CONSTRUCTION REVIEWSpring 202635'