EMSB provides Westmount Park Elementary School Construction Update

The English Montreal School Board has provided an update on the extensive ongoing renovation project at Westmount Park Elementary School.

“While our goal remains to return to the building in time for the start of the 2021-2022 academic year, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused delays beyond our control to the original construction schedule,” Principal Marco Gagliardi said in a letter to parents and staff. “As it stands today, we cannot exclude a scenario where our return to the building may be delayed.”

The major renovations at Westmount Park include, but are not limited to, roof, interior finishes, accessibility (elevator), mechanical (plumbing, CVAC, sprinklers), electrical (wiring, lights, telecom, fire alarm system, etc.) and exterior  (additional accessibility ramp, public utility works, drainage system and foundation waterproofing). Work began in the summer of 2019 and demolition was completed in February 2020. Our contractor and workers are sparing no effort to ensure the smooth completion of the project with the objective to make up for lost time. While measures can namely include double shifting and working on weekends, the evolving pandemic context may continue to interfere with our plans.

“In the event that a September reopening is not possible, we are committed to provide sufficient notice to all stakeholders and share mitigation measures,” stated Mr. Gagliardi. “If necessary, the present arrangement of having our school populations housed at the Marymount Academy International and Ville Émard facilities could be extended. While we are all eager to return to our newly renovated building, it is our primary responsibility to ensure that our student population and school team returns to a safe and secure environment.”

The EMSB administration will be providing frequent updates as the situation. “Indeed, we all look forward to the reopening of what will be a truly state-of-the-art facility,” said Mr. Gagliardi.

About the English Montreal School Board

With a youth and adult sector population of more than 37,000 students, the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) is the largest English public school board in Quebec. Established on July 1, 1998, when the province created new boards along linguistic lines, our network consists of 77 schools and centres. For more details, visit the EMSB website at www.emsb.qc.ca.