The national authority has announced the distribution of a $768.6-million infrastructure deal to construct multiple laboratory facilities on the Ottawa-based Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) campus.
This Regulatory and Security Science Main (RSS Main) infrastructure plan addresses Canada’s obligations within NATO’s defence investment framework. The development will incorporate contemporary laboratories, sophisticated technologies, and electronic platforms designed to foster science and research, according to officials, who project it to deliver roughly $900 million toward Canada’s security and resilience targets under NATO over the upcoming 10 years.
PCL Construction Canada Inc. secured the contract to execute the build on Fallowfield Road in Ottawa.
“This infrastructure will enhance Canada’s food supply protections, boost emergency preparedness, and protect our national borders while maintaining trade and travel flow to assist the domestic economy,” an official news release stated.
Defence Minister David McGuinty delivered the announcement on Monday, acting on behalf of Joël Lightbound, the Minister of Public Works and Procurement.
“Ottawa serves as the base for several of Canada’s most vital scientific and research institutions, and this capital investment reinforces our city’s status as a pioneer in innovation, public service, and national resilience,” McGuinty declared in the official news release.
“The upcoming RSS Main campus will unite elite scientists and researchers within modernized facilities, generating quality jobs, progressing Canadian technical expertise, and fortifying the operational capabilities that protect Canadians and sustain our economy.”
McGuinty noted that upon completion, the facility will unite roughly 275 scientists and researchers arriving from the CFIA, the Canada Border Services Agency, Health Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
“Together remains the core operative word,” he emphasized during a press conference. “They will push forward critical work across public health fields, border security networks, and regulatory science branches.”
Barrhaven West Councillor David Hill described the development as an “outstanding update” for the neighborhood.
“I am dedicated to maintaining a collaborative relationship with all levels of government to boost our local economy and foster well-paying jobs, and I appreciate the ongoing work of both our current and previous MPs regarding this project,” he stated in a post published on X.
According to government statements, the RSS Main project is being completed across multiple distinct components. The entire project is scheduled to reach full completion in 2031.
