The B.C. government announced this morning it will invest an additional $20 million to repair, upgrade and improve facilities in schools around the province.
The government says school districts can resubmit previous applications or apply for funding for new projects. Things the government will fund include plumbing, heating and ventilation upgrades, roof repairs or replacement, windows, lighting and electrical system upgrades, flooring replacements and safety enhancements.
Projects will be chosen based on need and priority, and must cost between $100,000 and $3 million to be eligible. Districts have until Sept. 15 to apply.
The money promised today is on top of the $45 million announced for 124 B.C. schools in May. In another announcement three months ago, Premier Christy Clark promised funding for up to 2,700 new student spaces in Surrey, a new high school, a new elementary school and the purchase of land for a future elementary school.
READ MORE: Surrey to get new schools, more spaces for students
However with the school year just around the corner, the province is coming under fire again for continued overcrowding in Surrey schools, where district officials have to resort to using portables to accommodate students. The problem is now turning into a pre-election issue for the Liberals.
On Tuesday, NDP leader John Horgan held a rally in Surrey, pledging to cut the number of portables should his party come into power.
WATCH: Portables used at overcrowded Surrey schools become an election issue
Speaking on Global News Morning BC, Education Minister Mike Bernier said the province has already invested $100 million to reduce the number of portables in Surrey and committed to thousands of new school seats.
“It is a fast-growing city. The growth that takes place there is absolutely incredible,” said Bernier. “A big part of what we need to be doing is working with the school district to make sure that when those investments are made, they are the right investments for the right size and the right location. That takes some planning and a good relationship with the school district.”
“We recognize that there is a lot of work that needs to be done,” concluded Bernier.
WATCH: Education Minister Mike Bernier talks about overcrowding in Surrey and major changes coming to B.C. school curriculum
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