Georgian seeks support for new Advanced Technology, Innovation and Research Centre at Barrie Campus
May 3, 2016
Georgian College is seeking support for a major new building project at the Barrie Campus through a recently announced federal infrastructure program.
The Advanced Technology, Innovation and Research Centre will be a $30-million, three-storey building containing research and commercialization space, labs, multi-use classrooms and collaboration space for up to 800 new degree and diploma students. The building will be carbon neutral and LEED-certified.
The federal government announced its Post-secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) for capital construction or repair of college and university buildings just three weeks ago. Applications are due May 9 and construction must be completed by April 30, 2018.
On May 2, Barrie city council unanimously agreed to provide $5 million or 25 per cent of the final cost, whichever is less (pending ratification).
The federal government will cover up to 50 per cent of the cost of projects it approves. Georgian has already obtained a commitment from the County of Simcoe (pending ratification) for a $5-million contribution.
Georgian College Board of Governors’ Chair Tom McBride told councillors the new centre will bring substantial benefits not only to Georgian and its students but also to Barrie and all of Simcoe County.
“Our proposed Advanced Technology, Innovation and Research Centre will contribute to our prosperity and competitive advantage,” McBride said. “It will be a game changer, a home for new diploma and degree studies, but also a boost for our startup economy.”
President and CEO MaryLynn West-Moynes said the project will meet and exceed the federal government’s three criteria – research and innovation, specialized training, and environmental sustainability.
“The centre will house studies in engineering, technology, computer studies, environmental management, and more,” said West-Moynes. “It will also be a place where academia and industry work together, collaborating to innovate, diversify our economy and create new opportunities for the future.”
As currently envisioned, the main and second floors will house labs and classrooms as well as common areas for work and discussion. The building will also feature the latest computer-aided design (CAD) labs, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) labs, and GIS labs. Initially, the third floor may be kept as a shell, destined for future use, depending on future provincial government funding opportunities. The structure will be capable of supporting a fourth floor, if needed, in coming years.