Good news for students and staff at Keating Elementary school in Central Saanich. BC Minister of Education Rob Fleming has announced a $7.92-million seismic upgrade and four-classroom additions. That also includes a $343-thousand contribution from the Saanich School District toward the expansion part of the project.
The existing structure was built in the early 1960s, with renovations in 1965, 1969, 1992 and 2010. One part of the school doesn't meet seismic building requirements and will be upgraded. Four new classrooms will be built for use as a swing space during construction instead of portables, and will then accommodate students in the long term.
Construction on the school is expected to begin this July, with completion set for March 2020.
Eight of SD63's 10 seismic upgrades are complete with one left to be upgraded.