Dundalk’s New School Opening Delayed to 2028 Amid Challenges

The anticipated opening of a new JK-8 school in Dundalk has been postponed to 2028, according to recent discussions during the Southgate budget meeting. Initially, the school, which will include daycare facilities, was set to open in 2027. This change comes as the local council reviewed ongoing construction projects, including the reconstruction of Osprey Street.

During the council meeting, CAO Jim Ellis indicated that work on Osprey Street, extending from Victoria to Owen Sound Street, is planned for 2026. The project will continue north of Owen Sound Street through Grey and into Bradley in 2027. These timelines were expected to align with the school’s construction.

Deputy Mayor Barbara Dobreen referenced comments made by former Education Minister Stephen Lecce, who had stated that funding for the school would be revoked if it was not constructed. While Dobreen acknowledged that Lecce is no longer in office, she sought clarification on whether the school board had communicated the date change and if the province approved this delay.

Development director Ken Melanson confirmed that the township has received information from the school board indicating that the new timeline of 2028 is accurate. Melanson mentioned that he had not yet heard directly from the Ministry of Education but noted that “some complicating factors” have arisen. These include issues related to land transfer and the necessary approvals for the school.

Despite these challenges, Melanson expressed optimism, stating, “We are seeing progress, so I expect that that’ll be dealt with probably by early new year.” He acknowledged unexpected complications concerning crossings over a County-owned rail trail but reassured that the necessary agreements have now been secured.

“We do have the crossings now in our possession,” Melanson remarked, highlighting a significant step forward in the process. Dobreen emphasized that the legal aspects regarding the County CP Rail Trail have been addressed promptly, asserting, “We’re not holding up the build. We’ve done everything.”

Melanson concurred with Dobreen, noting that the delays are primarily due to coordination challenges between the school board and the landowner. “We stand ready to pounce once all of the remaining pieces fall into place,” he said, indicating the readiness of the township to move forward once legal matters are resolved.

Chief Building Official Phil Schram confirmed that the building permit is prepared and will be issued once all legal requirements are met. Additionally, staff affirmed that contractors could be arranged for the necessary road reconstruction, contingent on the timely passage of the budget.

As the community awaits the new school, the timeline adjustments reflect the complexities involved in large construction projects, particularly those reliant on multiple stakeholders. The township remains committed to advancing the project, ensuring the educational needs of Dundalk’s residents are met as efficiently as possible.