# Canada Launches 24 Sussex Renovation Competition

The Canadian federal government, led by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), has initiated a two-stage design-build procurement process to renovate 24 Sussex Drive, the prime minister's official residence in Ottawa, Ontario. The project is estimated to cost between $120 million and $150 million, with a winning design announcement planned for July 1, 2027. Over 120 firms have expressed interest, reflecting strong industry engagement. However, the procurement approach has faced criticism for its vague scope and undefined budget, raising concerns about potential delays and cost overruns. This situation underscores the importance of clear project definitions and transparent procurement models in large-scale government construction projects.

- **Key details:** PSPC leads a high-profile design-build competition with a substantial budget and a mid-2027 award timeline
- **Why this matters:** The scale and visibility of this project create significant opportunities for architecture and construction firms specializing in heritage and government facilities
- **Procurement implications:** Firms should prepare for a competitive process with a focus on innovative design and cost management; procurement professionals should consider lessons on scope clarity and risk mitigation
- **Strategic insight:** The criticism highlights the need for enhanced transparency and well-defined requirements in future federal infrastructure procurements to avoid delays and budget issues

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 19, 2026

### Government Entities
- Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC)
- Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC)
- Rideau Hall Foundation

### Vendors
- Architects DCA (Interested firm)
- Agathom Co. (Interested firm)
- Bemocon Contracting Ltd. (Interested firm)
- Dolyn Construction (Withdrew from competition)
- PCL, EllisDon, Pomerleau (Major construction players mentioned)

### Key Quotes
> I find that the structure of the [request for qualification] is really flawed from the get-go, and it has a number of major procurement challenges that are going to result in something that has the potential to be great, but probably won’t be.
> — Toon Dressen, President, Architects DCA

### Sources
- [Renovation of 24 Sussex could cost taxpayers up to $150-million, say sources - The Hill Times - The Hill Times](https://www.hilltimes.com/2026/09/19/the-whole-thing-is-very-murky-feds-wrong-procurement-approach-for-24-sussex-reno-could-cost-taxpayers-up-to-150-million-say-sources/518418) - The Hill Times