The Montreal Port Authority has launched preparatory work for its Contrecoeur expansion and awarded a C$609 million (US$435 million) contract for water works to the CTCGP consortium led by Pomerleau and Aecon, reports Saint Petersburg's PortNews.

The initial phase, announced in July 2025, includes fencing, access road construction, work platforms, selective tree cutting, and installation of site offices and a garage. Work is scheduled to begin before October 27.

The CTCGP consortium, with Pomerleau holding 60 per cent and Aecon 40 per cent, will begin water works in 2026 following regulatory approvals. These works include dock construction and dredging.

Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the expansion will boost container capacity by about 60 per cent, enhancing supply chain resilience and competitiveness.

The Contrecoeur site, located in an industrial zone, was acquired by the MPA over 30 years ago. The terminal is expected to handle up to 1.15 million TEU and enter service by 2030.

The project is backed by federal and provincial funding and is projected to generate over 10,000 jobs annually at full capacity.

The expansion plan includes two berths, an intermodal rail yard connected to national networks, a truck gate linked to highways, and supporting facilities. Federal environmental approval was granted in 2021.

The Montreal Port Authority is a federal agency under the Canada Marine Act, managing containerized and bulk cargo as well as cruise terminals.

Pomerleau Inc is a privately held construction firm based in Quebec, specialising in industrial and civil engineering. Aecon Group, headquartered in Toronto, is publicly traded and active in multiple infrastructure sectors.