Ontario Government Invests Over $3 Million to Improve Trent University's Infrastructure

/

The Ontario Government has invested $3,002,300 into Trent University’s infrastructure to help its students access to modern facilities, learning tools and equipment, announced at the school’s Student Centre on Thursday morning.

(From left to right) Kathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor; Tariq Al-idrissi, Vice-President of Finance & Administration and Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP in front of ongoing consutrction of an accessible pathway along the Otonabee River. The pathway stretches from Bata Library to Champlain College. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Trent is using the money to:

  • Enhance the learning environment and campus experience for students, faculty and staff with infrastructure upgrades and improvements to critical academic and research facilities.

  • Increase efficiency and reduce the University’s environmental impact by enhancing building exteriors, mechanical and electrical systems.

  • Prioritize accessibility, AODA standards, health and safety through essential facilities as well as ramps and stairs, and updated signage.

“This support will ensure students at Trent University have access to modern instructional equipment to meet business and industry standards, increase student access to micro-credentials and enhance the overall student experience,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By investing in postsecondary infrastructure, we are not only supporting our local economy but ensuring students develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.”

“This significant contribution from the government helps Trent University enhance the environments of our renowned campuses, ensuring our award-winning architecture and its infrastructure are keeping pace with the latest upgrades and innovations,” said Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “At Trent, we are dedicated to student success and wellbeing, prioritizing a safe and modern environment for both learning and teaching. This investment not only strengthens the University but also reinforces Trent's role as a vital asset and key contributor to the local communities and Ontario’s economy.”

The most notable part of the investment is an accessible pathway that starts from Bata Library, travels north underneath Faryon Bridge and extends out to Champlain College. The construction has already been ongoing for two years with expected projected completion before Head of the Trent which takes place on Oct. 4 and 5.

While the University is known for its architecture, it had its accessibility issues. Having the balance between modernization and preserving heritage was key in making these upgrades.

“We have that level of modernization that students are looking for, we have safe and accessible campuses but we also need to be preserving the heritage,” said Bruce. “We needed to preserve the riverside and we need to make it really conducive to community and anybody who wants to come along here and enjoy that.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.