Archived News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

February 12, 2009

$11 Million In Investments To Expand, Improve Brandon University: Doer

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Province, Student Union To Support Campus Improvements

BRANDON—Expansion and campus improvements totalling $11.2 million will get under way with the announcement of provincial support to construct a new physical plant at Brandon University, Premier Gary Doer said here today.
 
“Our government’s plan to improve and upgrade campuses throughout Manitoba is continuing to open new opportunities for youth and increase our long-term competitive advantage,” Doer said. “We’re very pleased to be partnering with Brandon University on much-needed projects that will help to rejuvenate the campus.”
 
Construction of a new $3.9-million physical plant clears the way for a $4-million, 12,000-square-foot expansion and renovation of the student-owned and operated Knowles Douglas Commission building which will provide essential additional student common space, room for commercial tenants, expanded space for student clubs and organizations, and will allow for the relocation of the students’ union office.  Additionally, Brandon University received $3.3 million from the province for campus improvements announced in January 2009.
 
“Physical plants make institutions run properly and we’re pleased this government realizes the importance of infrastructure and has come through for Brandon University,” said Brandon University (BU) president Louis Visentin.
 
When the old physical plant building is demolished, the space will be used by the Brandon University Students’ Union (BUSU).  This student-led project is being funded through the student union and by commercial tenants to be located in the building.  
 
“The Brandon University Students’ Union has been actively working toward an expansion and renovation of the Knowles Douglas building and we’re grateful that the Council on Post-secondary Education has responded to BU and BUSU requests for the physical plant to be replaced.  This clears the way for our capital project,” said Brandon University Students’ Union president Stephen Montague.  “The Knowles Douglas project further enhances our ability to continue to meet students’ needs and enrich their learning experience at BU.”
  
The physical plant serves as the hub for many campus operations and provides services from security and technical support to building maintenance, project management, groundskeeping, deliveries and housekeeping.  Employees operate and maintain Brandon University buildings, do smaller-scale construction projects and provide in-house trades expertise.  The new building will include electrical, power engineering and mechanical services, painting, carpentry and a groundskeeper shop, along with a locksmith shop and storage capacity.
                                                                                         
Construction of the 13,600-square-foot physical plant building is expected to begin as soon as this spring.  The new facility will be adjacent to the steam plant on campus to allow for more efficient use of space, equipment and tools for the site, the premier said.
 
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