The association has commended the government's $115-billion investment in infrastructure, including $51 billion for local infrastructure such as housing and transportation.

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said that Ottawa's financial plan "lacks some ambition," particularly in infrastructure spending and insulating workers from the impacts of U.S. tariffs.

Both residential and non-residential costs rose by 0.6% in the quarter as tariff pressures and supply-chain uncertainties continue to impact construction.

The study will be completed next year, delivering corridor and site options and cost analysis.

The budget's new spending is aimed squarely at boosting productivity and funding cross-country infrastructure projects that would help businesses reach new markets.