$22.9 Million Lakeshore Elementary School Project Awaits Groundbreaking

The construction of a new elementary school in Lakeshore, with a budget of $22.9 million, is poised to begin, pending the availability of Ontario’s Education Minister, Paul Calandra. In her year-end report to the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB), Vicki Houston, director of education, confirmed that plans for the school have progressed, with a contractor secured for the project.

Originally approved in June 2024, the new school will be built on a 5.7-acre site located north of Girard Street and west of Rourke Line in Belle River. Construction was initially expected to start in January 2025, with the aim of welcoming students by September 2026. Houston noted that the board has finalized an agreement with Alliance General Contracting of Windsor to oversee the construction.

“We’ve emailed his office to find out when he’s available to come. Hopefully sooner rather than later. The construction company is ready and eager to go,” Houston stated regarding the need for a groundbreaking ceremony before construction can commence. She expressed optimism about the project, indicating that additional details about the construction timeline will be shared soon.

“We look forward to moving ahead with this very exciting project and welcome a new school for students and staff in the Municipality of Lakeshore,” said Houston. The board aims to enhance educational facilities within the region, and this new school is expected to play a significant role in meeting the needs of the local community.

As the project awaits the minister’s availability, the GECDSB continues to prepare for what promises to be a valuable addition to the Lakeshore educational landscape. AM800 News has reached out to Calandra’s office for further comments regarding the upcoming groundbreaking.