The first elementary school housed within a condo complex in Ontario is due to open on Toronto’s waterfront.
The initiative was revealed by the Ontario government on Friday as part of a drive to increase educational spaces in the urban core.
“We believe that many families living in condos and high-density urban neighborhoods deserve access to modern, safe schools in the heart of their communities,” stated Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce.
The Lower Yonge Precinct Elementary School will accept 455 students to their Yonge and Harbour streets location, with a completion date set for the 2024-25 school year.
In addition to an elementary school slotted on the third floor of the building, the City of Toronto has also secured space for a child care centre directly below it on the second floor.
“If we want to build up this city and our neighbourhoods, we need to ensure that residents have access to all the services they need, including schools – this is one example of how we will achieve this,” Mayor John Tory said.
In collaboration with the Toronto District School Board and Menkes Developments, the Ontario government is investing $44 million in the new project.
When the school is finished, the province plans to replicate the vertical community in other high-density areas around the province.
Source_ The Canadian Press
