$303.3 million allocated for Phase II school infrastructure

‘Schools for Tomorrow’ plan to be completed later this fall

Edmonton... An additional $303.3 million will be invested in 15 new schools and 6 new major preservation and modernization projects over the next four years, as well as the purchase of 130 new steel-framed modular classrooms this fiscal school year alone.

The investment will address health and safety concerns, community growth and enrollment changes, and will bring the province’s funding for school infrastructure to nearly $1.3 billion over the next three years.

“Today, I am announcing more major funding that addresses school boards' top priorities for school infrastructure needs, and ensures safe and healthy learning environments for our students,” said Gene Zwozdesky, Minister of Alberta Education. “Later this fall, I will complete the Schools for Tomorrow capital plan which will outline additional new schools and other school construction needs over the next five years.”

In May 2006 and as part of Budget 2006, the Legislature approved $258 million for the completion of previously announced projects and $81 million for repairs and upgrades to schools within the Infrastructure Maintenance and Renewal (IMR) envelope. The total allocation for school capital projects (including IMR) now increases to $572 million in the 2006/07 fiscal year and includes an additional $41 million in cost escalation dollars to address current construction market conditions for previously announced projects, and $72.3 million for year-one funding for new projects and modular classrooms. Today’s new funding announcement comprises Phase II of government’s ongoing provincial investment in school infrastructure.  Phase I capital funding for school construction projects of $207 million was announced in September 2005.

“Over one-half a billion dollars in new school capital announcements within the past year is a substantial investment in school infrastructure,” said Ty Lund, Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation. “This is targeted funding for projects that will alleviate some of the most pressing needs in the education system.”

Construction details will be finalized and determined by local school boards in conjunction with officials from Alberta Education and Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation. Details regarding funding for various Francophone school projects will be announced later this fall, as will modular classroom allocations. 

“Expanding and improving Alberta’s school infrastructure is a priority for government,” said Barry McFarland, Associate Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation and Minister Responsible for Capital Planning. “This increased investment coincides with Alberta’s ongoing planning for new capital projects and illustrates our commitment to meet the long-term learning needs of Alberta students.”

“I am thrilled with this announcement,” said Alberta School Boards Association President Maureen Kubinec. “Over $300 million in funding for school infrastructure is great news for Alberta students. I would like to applaud the Minister for recognizing the scope of the school building problem and his good work in obtaining these funds. Our association will continue to work with the Minister on education priorities and our shared commitment to our students.” 

In July 2006, Zwozdesky announced an additional $61 million for operating support to school boards and $119 million for IMR projects, bringing IMR funding to $200 million for the 2006/07 fiscal year. An additional $9 million was allocated for Plant Operations and Maintenance (PO&M), bringing the total PO&M funding to $404 million for the 2006/07 fiscal year.

The Government of Alberta’s support for Kindergarten to Grade 12, including $169 million in property tax support to opted-out school boards, now totals about $5.6 billion this fiscal year.

Backgrounder

Additional $303.3 million completes Phase II funding for school infrastructure

Phase II funding ($303.3 million) for new projects will be allocated as follows:

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