Modernization projects at W.R. Myers High School and D.A. Ferguson Middle School in Taber are moving ahead to the construction stage. (Photo: Horizon School Division)

By David Opinko

Division ‘super excited’ to see construction funding for two Taber schools

Sep 18, 2024 | 2:43 PM

TABER, AB – A pair of school modernization projects in Taber are moving ahead to the construction phase.

Premier Danielle Smith announced on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, a total of $8.6 billion over three years to build new schools and modernize existing ones.

As well, school projects that are already underway can now be advanced to their next stages in-year rather than having to wait until the following year’s budget cycle.

W.R. Myers High School and D. A. Ferguson Middle School in Taber will be advanced to the construction stages for the modernization initiatives.

Horizon School Division Superintendent Wilco Tymensen says he is “super excited” to be able to transition from planning to construction.

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“Modernizations of aging infrastructure is critical for ensuring that all alberta students have access to the best and most current learning environments,” says Tymensen.

“We are very appreciative of the fact that government also provides allowances for furniture and equipment as well as career and technology studies equipment as such funding will ensure that students within the Taber community have access to state of the art facilities and learning spaces so that we are able to meet their needs,” he adds.

Both schools will also receive mechanical, electrical and cosmetic upgrades.

Tymensen says, “The board is grateful for the province’s announcement and appreciates the collaborative work between the province and school division as we secure the future of Taber’s children.”

The province did not state how much money the school division would receive at this time. The superintendent explains that Alberta Infrastructure is often cautious about sharing this information before a contractor is acquired as that can influence the bidding process.

The division’s original plan was to start construction in summer 2025 and finish the work for the fall 2027 school year. He says it is unclear how the expedited funding approval might impact those timelines.

More details on the design plans and how construction will impact students at W.R. Myers and D.A. Ferguson will be shared by the Horizon School Division in the near future.

READ MORE: Alberta premier announces boost to school building budget amid population growth

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