Mar 23, 2026
Marco Awarded Collaborative Design-Build Contracts for Two New Schools in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Marco Awarded Collaborative Design-Build Contracts for Two New Schools in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Glace Bay, NS/Sydney Mines, NS
Marco has been awarded the contracts for the design and construction of two new collaborative design-build schools in Nova Scotia: Glace Bay Area PP-5 School in Glace Bay and Northside Middle School (Grades 6–9) in Sydney Mines.
Marco is partnering with Harvey Architecture – our design partner on J. L. Ilsley and Eastern Shore Schools – for this winning pursuit. The project team also includes many of the same experienced subconsultant partners, bringing continuity and proven collaboration to the delivery of both facilities.
The two projects will be delivered using a collaborative design-build delivery model which utilizes a fully integrated team approach including the involvement of a prime and sub-consultants, sub-contractors and representatives from the Department of Public Works and the Department of Education & Early Childhood Development (EECD). This model emphasizes early collaboration, shared decision-making, and alignment across all project partners.
A strong emphasis will be placed on sustainability and the use of local materials throughout design and construction. This includes prioritizing Nova Scotian and Canadian products wherever feasible, incorporating locally sourced wood materials, such as mass timber and sustainably harvested lumber, in both building and heating systems, and exploring the use of wood-based biofuels, including biomass and wood pellets, for building heating. Sustainability, regional economic development, and alignment with provincial climate goals will be core considerations throughout the design process.
As part of the collaborative design effort, DPW, EECD, and the Design-Build team will also explore a hybrid school solution that combines a standardized core facility with modular classroom components for both schools, supporting flexibility, efficiency, and long-term adaptability.
Quotes
“We’re excited to get started on these two schools and to continue working alongside DPW, EECD, and our design partners. Bringing everyone together early through a collaborative design-build approach helps us plan thoughtfully, stay flexible, and focus on using local, sustainable materials to deliver long-term value for Nova Scotia communities.”
– Allan MacIntosh, President Marco Group Limited
About Marco Group Limited
Marco Group Limited is the largest Atlantic Canadian-based general contractor, delivering high-quality projects across a wide range of sectors. With offices in Halifax, NS, and St. John’s, NL, they bring deep expertise to projects of every type, using delivery approaches tailored to each client’s needs from traditional general contracting and design-build to construction management, public-private partnerships (P3), and more. Built to thrive in Atlantic Canada’s challenging conditions, Marco is known for its adaptability, commitment to safety, and meaningful community engagement. They guide clients through every phase of a project, providing solutions that emphasize collaboration, efficiency, and lasting quality. Marco consistently delivers projects on time, on budget, and to the highest standards. For more information: https://marcogroup.ca/.
-30-
Media Contact:
Victoria Senetchko
Marketing & Communications Lead, Marco Group Limited