Mass timber gains ground in B.C. as municipalities weigh cost and carbon for public projects

More B.C. municipalities are turning to mass timber for public buildings, drawn by its low-embodied carbon and long-term cost savings. In Saanich, a mass timber fire station design was chosen after an 80-year life-cycle analysis showed it was $5 million cheaper than alternatives. The building also meets Step 3 of the B.C. Energy Step Code, showing how carbon goals can align with fiscal responsibility. Langley Township used mass timber for a 97-metre roof span at Smith Athletic Park, where pre-engineered steel was impractical. The project used three large timber segments combined into one arched structure. Officials say the design supports net-zero carbon targets and offers better aesthetics than standard steel buildings. The article highlights how municipalities are using data and pilot projects to build confidence in mass timber for future public works.