HALIFAX: Modern schools are the heart of growing, vibrant communities, which is why Nova Scotia continues to make significant investments in new school construction and renovations through the five-year school capital plan.
The updated 2020-25 plan released today, Feb. 2, will invest an additional $64.2 million in new and existing projects and address increased construction costs related to the pandemic, enrollment growth and environmental matters.
“We are building modern schools to serve Nova Scotia students, teachers and communities,” said Zach Churchill, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.
“While COVID-19 has impacted construction costs globally, we know these investments will have a positive, long-term impact on our education system and communities.”
Projects benefiting from increased funding include:
— the new pre-primary to grade 8 elementary school, Bedford Ravines, and new grade 9 to 12 high school, Bedford High, that are co-located to use shared heating and kitchen space
— adjusting the size of the new J.L. Ilsley High School in Spryfield to accommodate population growth and changes in grade configuration
— the additional gymnasium and theatre for Breton Education Centre in New Waterford
— adding classrooms and other educational spaces at École acadienne de Pomquet, part of a larger project with the federal government and community that includes a new community centre
— adding a community theatre to Park View Education Centre in Bridgewater, complementing the recently completed renovations at the site
— shared school bus and vehicle maintenance facility depot on the South Shore serving multiple departments
The province also confirmed a decision by Halifax Regional Centre for Education to consolidate Gaetz Brook Junior High and Eastern Shore District High School into one building following an extensive consultation process.
The new school will be built on industrial land in East Chezzetcook, which will allow for future development in the area including a community hub of recreational services.
Quick Facts:
— the 2020-2025 capital plan includes 23 projects for a total value of $475.5 million
— Nova Scotia began releasing a five-year rolling capital plan in 2018. This multi-year planning approach provides a predictable, long-term outlook for school construction and major renovations, addressing a recommendation of the Auditor General
Additional Resources:
— a full list of projects in the five-year school capital plan can be found at https://www.ednet.ns.ca/capitalplan
