Monday, August 10, 2026
Public Services and Procurement Canada has awarded a $768.6-million construction services contract to PCL Construction Canada Inc. for the Regulatory and Security Science Main (RSS Main) project in Ottawa. This marks a major milestone as the project advances into full construction following earlier site preparation and enabling work.
As part of Canada’s commitments under NATO’s defence investment framework, the RSS Main project will contribute to defence and security-related investment goals by strengthening Canada’s national security, resilience and emergency preparedness capabilities through modern science infrastructure. This significant investment will also support Canadian workers and businesses, advancing the Government of Canada’s Buy Canadian objectives through the use of Canadian expertise and, where possible, Canadian-sourced materials.
“Canadians rely on science every day, whether it’s protecting public health, strengthening our borders, or helping Canada respond to emerging risks and challenges. Through Laboratories Canada, we are making one of the largest investments in federal science infrastructure in a generation. RSS Main will equip Canada’s scientists and researchers with the modern tools they need to tackle emerging challenges, strengthen Canada’s resilience, support economic growth, and help keep Canadians safe for years to come,” said Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement.
Through this investment, Public Services and Procurement Canada is delivering six modern science facilities on the existing Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Ottawa Laboratory site. Together, these facilities will form the RSS Main campus and support greater collaboration among scientists and researchers from the CFIA, the Canada Border Services Agency, Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Conceptual aerial rendering of the Regulatory and Security Science Main campus in Ottawa, Ontario, showing the facilities under construction as part of the Laboratories Canada initiative. Rendering is subject to change. (PSPC)
The RSS Main campus will feature modern laboratories, advanced technologies and digital systems that support science and research. These capabilities will help strengthen Canada’s food supply, enhance emergency preparedness and secure our borders while keeping trade and travel moving to support the economy.
“Ottawa is home to some of Canada’s most important scientific and research institutions, and this investment reinforces our city’s role as a leader in innovation, public service, and national resilience. The new RSS Main campus will bring together world-class scientists and researchers in modern facilities, creating good jobs, advancing Canadian expertise, and strengthening the capabilities that help keep Canadians safe and our economy strong,” said David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence.
The RSS Main project is being delivered in multiple components, allowing the campus to expand and adapt as science needs evolve.
The current phase of the project is valued at approximately $1 billion and represents approximately 50 per cent of the total planned RSS Main scope.
Construction began in 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2031.
Featured image: Conceptual rendering of the Regulatory and Security Science Main facility in Ottawa, Ontario, highlighting the building’s front entrance and architectural design. Rendering is subject to change. (PSPC)
