The renovation work being completed at Gros Morne National Park’s Visitors Centre aligns closely with our values. The project involves the demolition of the existing Visitor Reception Centre building (160 m2) and its re-construction, renovation, and planned expansion for a revised total area of 1,125 m2. The work consists of the construction of a new public foyer with a reception area and exhibition rooms, the expansion of staff spaces, the expansion of the existing parking lot for the construction of a bus landing, a parking for recreational vehicles and an area for new charging stations for electric vehicles. We are also integrating more energy efficient HVAC, electrical, and water systems into the design to remedy increases to the building’s footprint.
Pomerleau is methodically working on the project, taking into consideration the relatively remote location of the project, which is in Newfoundland and Labrador. The location introduces significant logistical challenges for construction of this magnitude. The site is 700 km from St. John’s, and 120 km from next largest urban centre (Corner Brook). Most materials need to be shipped from various parts of the island, all of which rely on ocean transport to receive bulk shipment.
The panoramic pictures included from August 8th are a great representation of the building’s construction status. Major advancements in structural framing were made in July as we finished construction of the load bearing stud walls, began glulam installation, and saw the arrival of the first phase of roof trusses – all on schedule.
During the final week of July 2022, the project achieved a critical milestone. It received its first shipment of mass timber framing with a 20-week lead time. These timber frames came from Montreal. The 7 glued-laminated timber beam’s spans range from 30 to 60 feet, the heaviest of which was over 7,000 lb. This is the second mass timber application Pomerleau has executed in Newfoundland and Labrador. To celebrate this milestone, Pomerleau hosted a site-wide appreciation BBQ for all staff and trade partners to commend various stakeholders for their hard work and commitment to the project thus far.