New funding supports school upgrades
The province will provide nearly $20 million for school districts to extend the life of their facilities and school-based assets, Education Minister Mike Bernier announced Aug. 22.
Districts have been asked to identify priorities for capital upgrade projects that support healthy, efficient schools. Eligible projects must cost more than $100,000 and may include:
• Electrical upgrades (power supply and distribution systems);
• Energy upgrades;
• Health and safety upgrades (traffic safety, indoor air quality);
• Mechanical upgrades (heating, ventilation, plumbing); and
• Roofing upgrades.
Priority will be given to schools with enrolment demands and the greatest opportunity to improve facilities, says a Ministry of Eduction release.
Schools of strategic importance to districts, such as those in rural areas with limited alternatives and projected enrolment growth, will also be given priority.
Districts have until Sept. 15 to submit projects. Districts will be notified ‘later this fall’ of successful applications.
Quamichan Lake site for
a National Rowing Centre?
Quamichan Lake, east of Duncan, is being considered a possible site for a new National Rowing Centre of Excellence, the Municipality of North Cowichan announced in an Aug. 11 media release signed by Dave Devana, North Cowichan chief administrative officer, and Donna Atkinson, Rowing Canada CEO.
Rowing Canada has indicated a variety of public and private sites on Quamichan Lake are being considered, including Art Mann Park.
A feasibility study to review lake and site options is required, and will include comprehensive public consultation.