New Dryden School Delayed Again

Back to the drawing board for the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board.
The Board is going to re-design and re-tender the new Dryden Elementary School after being told by the Ministry of Education that they would only receive $14.3-million for the project.
The lowest bid came in at $14.9-million and the Province has advised Trustees that figure is not acceptable.
Superintendent of Business Dean Carrie says they will now look at a design that will accommodate 500-students but stresses the quality of the facility won’t be jeopardized.
The Ministry has suggested that the Board reduce the size of classrooms and the gym as well as utilize specialized spaces for classrooms until enrollment drops.
Carrie estimates they will have to trim $2-million off the scope of the project.
Carrie says they hope to have a new design and tender in place by the end of July, with construction starting in August.
The new Dryden School won’t be open next September as originally planned.
Most trustees are fine with the news as they were reluctant to pay for the project with cash intended for Queen Elizabeth renovations.
Carrie says the project is still a high priority.
He notes they are waiting on a Spring Capital announcement from the Ministry of Education.