TORONTO, Oct. 16, 2026 /CNW/ — CIMA+, one of Canada’s largest private consulting engineering firms, has received three Awards of Excellence at the 2026 Canadian Consulting Engineering Awards (CCE Awards), which recognize projects that demonstrate innovation, technical expertise and meaningful impact on communities across Canada. Presented during the awards gala held on October 15, the distinctions recognize CIMA+’s contributions to three projects:
MILQ: Ecological Diagnosis of Lakes Using BioindicatorsHertel–New York Underground Transmission LineRéseau express métropolitain (REM) – North Shore Segment
Together, these projects reflect the breadth of CIMA+’s expertise and its ability to bring innovative approaches to complex challenges in environmental science, energy infrastructure and public transit.
MILQ: Ecological Diagnosis of Lakes Using Bioindicators
Developed by CIMA+ in collaboration with Université Laval in Quebec, the MILQ method uses diatoms, a form of microscopic algae, as bioindicators to assess the ecological health of lakes and reconstruct their evolution over time. Applied to Saint-Mathieu Lake and Little Saint-Mathieu Lake, the method provided a clearer understanding of the causes behind recurring water-quality issues. The analysis showed that the deterioration of Little Saint-Mathieu Lake was primarily linked to phosphorus accumulated in its sediments over time, rather than inputs from the larger lake.
By bringing an approach traditionally associated with scientific research into engineering practice, MILQ provides decision-makers with a more precise understanding of lake eutrophication. This helps target restoration efforts, avoid unnecessary interventions and establish scientifically supported objectives for improving water quality.
Hertel–New York Underground Transmission Line
The 400-kV Hertel–New York underground transmission line is a major infrastructure project supporting North America’s energy transition. This 603 km interconnection will deliver up to 1,250 MW of Quebec hydropower to New York City, equivalent to approximately 25% of the city’s electricity needs. The project stands out for its fully underground and underwater design–a first in North America–which required the development of custom solutions for the installation, connection and monitoring of very-high-capacity cables.
By replacing a portion of fossil-fuel-based electricity generation in New York with hydropower, the project is expected to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately four million tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Réseau express métropolitain (REM) – North Shore Segment
Commissioned in November 2025, the Deux-Montagnes branch, which terminates in the municipality of Deux-Montagnes, Quebec, added 14 stations to the REM network in a highly complex environment, requiring integration with an already operational system and coordination across a broad ecosystem of stakeholders. Together with its partners, the CIMA+|Hatch joint venture implemented an adapted governance framework, rigorous information management practices and mechanisms to transfer lessons learned from the delivery of the South Shore segment.
More than 420 stakeholder workshops and 250 weekly technical meetings helped structure decision-making and support the delivery and commissioning of this major public transit project.
About CIMA+
CIMA+ provides complete consulting engineering services in the areas of Energy and Resources, Infrastructure, Defence, Transportation, Buildings, Project Management, Operational and Digital Technologies (including Telecommunication Systems), and Earth and Environment. The search for excellence has been part of our DNA since our founding in 1990, and our teams draw on decades of experience acquired across Canada to deliver quality projects that meet our clients’ expectations. This commitment to excellence and quality has allowed CIMA+ to rank among the largest private consulting engineering firms in the country. Today, with over 45 offices across Canada, CIMA+ employs more than 3,700 people, most of whom share ownership in the company.
Our multidisciplinary team is driven by a shared passion to deliver sustainable solutions that make our world a better place.
From our Board of Directors to the communities we serve, our commitment to people is evident in our drive to innovate, in the projects we carry out and in every action we take.
For more information, visit cima.ca
SOURCE CIMA+
