B.C. green-lights $1.6M for upgrades at two Port Moody schools

Two School District 43 institutions will soon receive upgrades thanks to provincial government funding.

Pleasantside Elementary and Port Moody Secondary are getting a combined $1.6 million as part of B.C.’s annual maintenance grants, each for specific needs tailored for the schools.

The facilities are two of more than 175 across the province receiving a total of $240.5 million, a 10.5% increase compared to last year.

At Pleasantside, the money is going toward new exterior wall systems through the School Enhancement Program portion of the grants, which focuses on the function and life extension of a building.

Port Moody Secondary, on the other hand, is getting new LED lighting through the Carbon Neutral Capital Program, which aims to reduce GHG emissions and provide energy efficiency and operational cost savings.

“With over 1,500 public schools throughout our province, maintaining and improving our facilities is a critical priority to ensure students are learning in healthy, efficient and positive environments, no matter where they live,” said B.C. Education Minister Jennifer Whiteside in a news release today (May 18).

“From ventilation and heating, to energy efficiency and lighting, increased maintenance funding allows districts to tackle immediate priorities and focus on providing the best learning experience possible for every B.C. student.”

The province explains it receives five-year capital plan submissions from public school districts each year asking for funding for minor capital projects. 

“The ministry evaluates the merits of these submissions against the eligibility criteria of the various capital programs offered and the available program budgets, and provides project approvals and funding for school districts with projects to be completed by school districts within the upcoming fiscal year."