ATCO Structures Expands Its Reach in the U.S. with Major $179 Million Contract for Worker Housing

ATCO Structures Expands Its U.S. Presence with Major Contract

ATCO Structures, a subsidiary of ATCO Ltd., is making significant strides in its growth within the United States, thanks to a newly awarded contract worth CAD $179 million (approximately USD $130 million) for the provision of modular worker housing at Perpetua Resources Corp.'s Stibnite Gold Project in Idaho. This project is set to transform the surrounding area by facilitating housing for over 1,000 workers who will be engaged in mining operations vital for national interests.

Project Overview

The contract entails the design, supply, and installation of a multi-functional worker housing facility, which includes a dormitory lodge capable of accommodating 1,052 individuals along with office spaces. This facility is scheduled to start operations in the first quarter of 2027. The initial phases of the project will commence in late 2025, focusing on site preparation, while the actual construction of the housing complex is slated for 2026.

Joshua Nabb, Senior Vice President at ATCO Structures U.S.A., expressed confidence in the partnership with Perpetua Resources, stating, "We are pleased to support Perpetua Resources with a high-quality, purpose-built solution designed to help maintain project schedules and budgets while achieving their operational objectives." He emphasized the benefits of their modular construction approach, particularly in remote locations, owing to their comprehensive experience in delivering modular accommodation solutions for large-scale industrial undertakings.

Importance of the Stibnite Gold Project

The Stibnite Gold Project is not only pivotal for gold extraction but also critical for antimony production, which is essential for various military and industrial applications. With the only known reserve of antimony in the United States located here, the project's significance was underscored by support from the U.S. Department of War, recognizing it as a vital asset for bolstering the domestic supply chain for critical minerals.

Michael Wright, Vice President of Projects at Perpetua Resources, stated, "Delivering the Stibnite Gold Project requires world-class partners. ATCO brings proven expertise in safely delivering the high-quality housing needed for our remote on-site workforce." This collaborative effort demonstrates a disciplined approach towards project execution, aiming to establish a foundational framework for one of America’s most important critical mineral initiatives.

Modular Housing Features

The forthcoming housing complex will consist of 363 prefabricated modular units, all manufactured within ATCO Structures’ climate-controlled facilities. These modules will be transported to the Stibnite site, where they will be assembled into housing wings and facilitated with communal amenities, including kitchens, dining areas, and recreational spaces, ensuring a comfortable and efficient living environment for the workers.

The design allows for seamless year-round access for the workforce, with interconnected facilities that promote easy flow between housing and support buildings. The goal is to create a sense of home away from home, enhancing overall worker satisfaction and productivity.

ATCO's Broader Impact

In addition to this significant contract, ATCO Structures has successfully completed other housing projects across the United States, including a 1,300-person facility at a Navy air station and a temporary wildfire emergency shelter housing 1,500 individuals following devastating fires in California. These projects highlight ATCO's versatility and ability to address urgent housing needs in diverse situations.

The company maintains a robust presence in various countries, including Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Australia, where it offers comprehensive modular solutions encompassing mobile offices, workforce housing, medical facilities, and educational institutions.

Conclusion

ATCO's recent contract with Perpetua Resources stands as a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and efficiency in construction. As the U.S. continues to explore and develop its critical mineral resources, collaborations like these will prove essential for building sustainable infrastructures that meet both industrial and workforce needs. Future advancements in modular construction are likely to propel ATCO Structures further into the forefront of housing solutions in North America and beyond.