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Province announces dollars for universties, polytechnic

The Saskatchewan Government has announced significant construction projects totalling $17 million at post-secondary institutions in Regina, Saskatoon and Moose Jaw.

The Saskatchewan Government has announced significant construction projects totalling $17 million at post-secondary institutions in Regina, Saskatoon and Moose Jaw.

The investment, including upgrades to Griffiths Stadium at the University of Saskatchewan, are part of the province’s $7.5 billion two-year capital stimulus package announced May 6.

“An investment in physical infrastructure pays off in two ways,” Advanced Education Minister Tina Beaudry-Mellor said.  “By upgrading bricks and mortar, we safeguard our public institutions for the long term and provide much-needed construction jobs over the short term.  More people working puts more money back into our economy and generates lasting benefits for the community.”

The three projects include:

•       $3.1 million upgrades to the field and lighting at University of Saskatchewan’s Griffiths Stadium

•       $2.5 million roof replacement at University of Regina’s College of Kinesiology

•       $12 million renovation to several buildings at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Moose Jaw Campus

Griffiths Stadium is home to the Saskatchewan Huskies football team, winner of three Vanier Cups and recognized as one of the best programs in Canadian university sports.  The field will be expanded to accommodate soccer and rugby, energy efficient lighting added and stadium turf replaced to ensure a safe playing surface that can meet accreditation.  Improvements will also benefit community groups which account for 40 per cent of the stadium’s usage.

The Moose Jaw project will increase campus usability and safety for students, faculty and staff.  Facilities to be renovated house the Construction, Electrical, Welding, Automotive and Civil Water programs.

Replacing the roof on the Kinesiology Building will prevent further damage to floors in the gymnasia and protect other areas of the building from similar issues.  The facility is vital for degrees in Kinesiology, Gerontology, Sport and Recreational Studies and Health Studies.  Research being done at the school supports stroke victims and people with Multiple Sclerosis.

Construction is expected to begin this year and finish in all projects by the spring of 2022, supporting the province’s Growth Plan commitment to build strong communities by investing $30 billion in infrastructure over the next decade.

“As we re-open Saskatchewan and emerge from the pandemic, it is important to look to the future,” Beaudry-Mellor said.  “These projects increase our post-secondary capabilities and reinforce our commitment to students’ safety and wellbeing in both academic and athletic pursuits.”