CIBC Square Concrete Pumping Project

Premier Concrete Pumping was proud to be a key partner in one of Toronto’s most complex high-rise builds: the second tower at CIBC Square, located at 141 Bay Street. This project is part of a $2 billion development that includes two office towers, a major transit terminal, and an extension of Toronto’s PATH network. The second tower reaches 52 storeys and 792 feet, making it one of the tallest office buildings in the city. For a structure of this size and importance, reliable and precise concrete placement was critical—and that’s where our team delivered.

Project Scope

This job falls under ICI concrete pumping, specifically high-rise commercial construction. We were contracted by Structform, part of the Structural Group of Companies, to provide complete concrete pumping services from the foundation to the top floor. The scope included pouring core walls, shear walls, elevated slabs, stairwells, and footings. Our team placed over 57,000 cubic meters of concrete throughout the build, supporting the structural integrity of the building’s fire-rated elevator and stairwell core.

Equipment and Pumping Strategy

Given the height and complexity of the project, we deployed almost every type of equipment in our fleet. The majority of the concrete was placed using our placing boom, installed on a self-climbing Putzmeister tower system. This allowed for continuous, floor-by-floor pumping from the central core outward without needing crane time beyond the initial setup. We also brought in our 65-meter boom pump—one of the largest in the industry—when specific pours required horizontal reach beyond the core.

From line pumps and Z-booms to full-scale placing systems, our equipment gave us the flexibility to handle multiple pour types and access challenges across the project.

Challenges on Site

Working at 141 Bay Street presented unique challenges typical of high-density downtown sites. With Union Station next door and limited site access, maneuvering large trucks and coordinating equipment setup required careful planning. Bringing our 65-meter boom into position in such a tight, congested area was no easy task—especially with its 60-foot truck length and swing clearance.

Additionally, this job ran year-round, starting in June 2022 and continuing through all seasons. That meant cold-weather concrete pumping was essential. We used proper winter pour techniques including heated hoses, modified mixes, and warm water supply to ensure proper cure and flow, even in freezing temperatures. Our crews worked in snow, rain, and summer heat—never missing a beat.

Unique Structural Design

Unlike most towers in Toronto, CIBC Square was constructed with a hybrid system: a structural steel skeleton surrounding a central concrete core. That core, built entirely with our placing boom, formed the spine of the building and housed all vertical movement including elevators and staircases.

Because the placing boom was mounted directly onto the concrete core, we were able to climb with the structure and keep up with the vertical schedule. This reduced reliance on cranes, streamlined site logistics, and allowed other trades to work in parallel without delay.

Execution and Team Coordination

Throughout the job, our operators worked hand-in-hand with Structform’s team and other trades on site. Every pour required careful sequencing, clean hose management, and attention to schedule. Whether we were placing a 500-yard core wall or a small stair landing, we ensured every setup was safe, every pour was smooth, and every finish met spec.

We also minimized downtime between pours by prepping our equipment for quick transitions and having backup systems ready when needed. Our full fleet is equipped with onboard water and air systems, blowout caps, and cleanout gear—allowing us to operate quickly and cleanly in high-pressure environments.

Results

Over the course of the project, Premier Concrete Pumping poured more than 57,000 cubic meters of concrete with zero major delays and consistent performance. Our ability to adapt to tight access, harsh weather, and evolving construction timelines helped keep this high-profile development on track.

The second tower of CIBC Square now stands as a landmark of modern Toronto—both in design and scale. And we’re proud to have helped bring its concrete core to life from the ground up.

Why It Matters

This project is a prime example of the kind of work we specialize in: large-scale, high-rise ICI concrete pumping where execution matters as much as equipment. For general contractors, developers, and formwork companies, having a pumping partner that understands structural sequencing, site logistics, and the real demands of the job is critical.

We don’t just send a truck—we send a team that knows how to deliver under pressure.

Looking Ahead

If you’re planning a major concrete project—whether it’s a high-rise, a municipal development, or a complex downtown build—we’re ready to support you. From placing booms and large booms to cold-weather pours and tight-access pumping, we bring the experience, equipment, and crew to get it done right.