75% of public school undergoing upgrades

Many students in Simcoe County returned to newly renovated schools and classrooms this week.

Approximately 75% of schools in the Simcoe County District School Board are receiving retrofits or upgrades as a result of $40 million worth of funding through Good Places to Learn and annual renewal grants. This total is nearly six times the dollar amount allocated to these types of projects in past years.

"The scope and volume of work is so large that some of it will continue to take place beyond the summer months and well into the coming school year," explained Mark Twardowski, manager of design, construction and maintenance for the Simcoe County District School Board.

"The hundreds of construction workers, tradespeople and SCDSB staff working on these jobs have shown extreme dedication throughout the summer to complete projects or move them into the next phase of

completion," noted Lou Brandes, associate director and superintendent of facility services.

A major component of the ongoing work involves $5 million worth of roofing replacements at 22 schools. Other projects include:

* Window replacements

* Exterior door replacements

* HVAC replacements/improvements

* Fire alarm replacements/ improvements

* Electrical/lighting system improvements

* Flooring replacements Site improvements