Okanagan College

Project: Renewal of building SW1 and adjacent areas to improve classroom/lab functionality and ventilation and to increase energy efficiency

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renewal of building SW1 to improve the use and functionality of classroom, laboratory and informal learning space. The renewal includes installing state-of-the-art teaching technologies, introducing more sustainable applications into the renovated space, including a micro-electricity grid. Furthermore, the project includes completing the seismic upgrades and modernizing the life safety systems and ventilation system. The project is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project improves the learning environment and functionality of classroom, laboratory and informal learning space for students and staff by installing upgraded teaching technologies and renewing the building. In addition, introduction of a thermal co-generator to produce electricity and an electrical micro-grid will accommodate new programs in alternative energy production and allow researchers to assess the system’s efficiency and feasibility in a real work application.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The project is designed to meet the requirements of LEED Gold certification. It increases energy efficiency and reduces emissions by introducing more sustainable applications into the renovated space, including installation of a micro-electricity grid, which supports alternative electrical energy generating sources.
3. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: This project completes the seismic work required for the facility and modernizes the life safety systems and ventilation system to accommodate a safe and healthy learning and teaching environment.

Project: Maintenance/Renovations/Code Upgrades to multiple campus buildings

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project includes renovations to student gathering and study spaces, upgrades to shop and trades buildings, and deferred maintenance to aging campus buildings.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project improves facilities that support teaching ticketed Welding and Mechanical trades in advanced areas. It facilitates introduction of ticketed sprinkler pipes and implements shop upgrades to trades program facilities to reduce and potentially eliminate current waiting lists and double-shifting of shop/laydown areas.
2. Improves energy efficiency: This project meets BC Hydro Public Sector Energy Conservation Agreement standards, resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: Upgrades to the fire and gas code, along with improvements to indoor air quality and mould and dampness remediation measures, ensure a safe and healthy environment for students and staff.

Project: Construction of Learning Commons

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating the Lansdowne and Interurban library and learning commons facilities. Renovations to the Lansdowne facility include expanding the computer lab to 48 stations, installing four media-viewing computers, a 35-seat electronic classroom, six online public access computer stations, a 25-seat instructional classroom, two writing/learning offices, nine teaching learning offices, five information technology and audiovisual support offices, and a 72-seat study lounge. Renovations to the Interurban campus centre library include 31 computer stations, a 32-seat electronic classroom, three online public access computer stations, 28 quiet study rooms, five group study rooms, one information technology and audiovisual support office, and a 52-seat study lounge.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The renovated library and learning commons offer individual and collaborative learning spaces, leading-edge technology, in-library instruction, and support for reading and writing improvement. Expanding the computer labs allows for more computer classrooms, laptop-supported study carrels, one-stop shopping for student learning resources and optimization of information technology / audiovisual services. An additional benefit for students includes support services, which will be built into Camosun’s learning commons.
2. Improves energy efficiency: Upgrading the heat, ventilation and air conditioning system reduces energy consumption. This project also improves energy efficiency by installing mobile learning computer tools, which can be charged from “green” solar charging stations, and upgrading inefficient generators and emergency power systems.

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Project: Construction of New Digital Media / Film Centre Building

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a 6,409 square metre state-of-the-art New Digital Media / Film Centre to support training students for numerous roles in film production. The film centre includes four classrooms; a lecture theatre; laboratories for computers, multimedia and digital animation; a digital film development facility; offices; and a library and study area. The new facility is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The Film Centre has the capacity to train students in numerous highly skilled roles in film production. The project addresses the current lack of space to support existing programs. This project also provides the added capacity needed to respond to future industry demand for skilled workers.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The current film school facility is a poorly insulated 33-year-old wooden structure that is beyond its useful life. The new film centre is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, resulting in improved energy efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Project: Construction of new building to expand and diversify skilled trades programs (Quesnel Campus)

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a 3,800 square metre facility for skilled trades programs. The new facility is comprised of four teaching shops, three classrooms, two computer labs and five offices. The facility is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The new building accommodates a total of 198 student stations. The project increases the college’s capacity to train students in advanced areas and across a variety of trades and technical education programs, including Welding, Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanics, Power Engineering, Agro-forestry, Horticulture and Animal Science. The new purpose-designed and purpose-built facilities incorporate advanced learning technology capabilities, including Smart Boards, interactive video conferencing, and high-speed Internet.
2. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The design of the building to meet LEED certification will result in substantial energy savings and Greenhouse gas emissions reduction.

Project: Renewal/replacement of Trades Building to install sustainable systems, expand capacity and consume less energy (Prince George Campus)

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovation of an existing trades training facility and construction of a new Technical Education Centre building on the Prince George Campus. The 7,838 square metre building includes trades shops, classrooms, a laboratory, and office space. The project is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The new facility accommodates a total of 792 full-time equivalent students, increasing the number of students receiving training in Red Seal trades and other technical programs, including Industrial Mechanic/Millwright, Planer Mill Technician, Automotive Collision Repair, Plumbing, Engineering Technology, Mining Technician, Process Operations, Transportation and Logistics, Environmental Technician, and Welding, Machinist.
2. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: The 48-year-old trades and training building is being replaced with a new and larger facility. The existing building failed to meet building or safety codes and regulations. In addition, the facilities did not meet current college facility standards for ventilation and storage of materials. This project significantly improves the health and safety of students.
3. Improves energy efficiency: The building has been a large contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Replacement of existing antiquated systems with state-of-the-art heating, cooling and electrical systems, that allow the building to meet the requirement of LEED certification Gold, increases energy efficiency and reduces emissions.

Project: South entrance building renovation and expansion to replace programs housed in portables, in order to increase functionality and enhance security

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating the south entrance building, allowing the college to relocate into the building programs that were being delivered in portables. Renovations include adding eight classrooms, four computer labs, three reading labs, and 39 faculty offices and meeting rooms. Further renovations include an upgrade to an elevator. The project is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The additional classroom space, with complete electronic teaching aids, provides the college with greater flexibility in terms of programs offering. The project increased the number of full time equivalent students that can be accommodated by 152.
2. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: The project provides students and staff with a healthy, safe and secure facility, and eliminates the need for portable buildings. The upgraded elevator improves accessibility for student with limited mobility.
3. Improves energy efficiency: Renovations utilize energy-efficient materials in its construction, resulting in improved energy efficiency. Greenhouse Gas Emissions are reduced by an estimated 37 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Project: Building renewal to improve learning environment and replacement of deck membrane to prevent water penetration

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves constructing sustainable campus buildings, restoration and renewal of the building structure, upgrading and renovating the internal learning and educational space, and improving building safety and security systems. Renovations to the building structure include installing new waterproofing membrane and insulation and an extensive vegetation-covered roof system. Further work involves renovations to the physical sciences and health sciences (dental) labs, computer labs, and general classroom space and upgrading the security systems.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project enhances and extends the life of Douglas College for its 14,000 students. It also enhances the Science and Technology program, which provides graduates with advanced skills and enhanced educational certification. In addition, the project enhances the learning environment of physical sciences and health sciences labs, as well as general classroom space.
2. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: This project makes the campus safer and more secure. It provides an umbrella of building maintenance systems with enhanced health and safety systems.
3. Improves energy efficiency: The vegetation-covered roof system reduces cooling costs, improves storm water retention, and increases the life expectancy of the roof.

Project: Renovations to Mitchell Building and Granville Island Campus

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating and upgrading the Mitchell building’s existing infrastructure. The project consists of consolidating workshop facilities from four shops to a single large shop, upgrading 12,000 square feet of leased space at the Mitchell building to transfer instructional and studio operations, and reconfiguring space at the North and South buildings to accommodate growth in the Design and Dynamic Media faculty.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: Upgrades and renovations increase industrial design student enrolment and faculty by 50 percent and 40 percent respectively.

Project: Construction of Fire Rescue Training Facility, renovations to Engineering Building and upgrade of HVAC/new controls system

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating and upgrading training facilities on multiple campuses. At Canada Education Park, substantial renovations to Building 1034 are included. At Maple Ridge campus, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system will be upgraded and a four-storey rope rescue simulation apparatus will be installed. As well, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system at New Westminster campus will be upgraded.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The 4-rope rescue tower provides essential training and experience for firefighters and enables fire rescue professionals to learn how to perform high-rise rescues from active buildings and buildings under construction. The project also provides space to continue delivering ongoing justice and public safety training programs.
2. Improves energy efficiency: This project contributes towards meeting the institute’s emission reduction targets. Upgrading the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system at two campuses reduces energy consumption and improves the training environment.

Project: Renewal/replacement of building envelope to increase energy performance and indoor environment for students at Surrey Campus

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renewing and replacing the building envelope of various buildings to enhance energy performance and the indoor environment for students across the Surrey campus.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: Renewing and replacing the building envelope reduces the potential for health issues resulting from exposure to mould.
2. Improves energy efficiency: This project improves energy efficiency and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 85.5 tonnes CO2 per year.

Project: Richmond Campus Library expansion/renovation to accommodate increased needs

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating the Richard campus library to convert vacant space and optimize existing space for an expanded library collection, and various upgrades to the facility to reduce energy consumption.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: Renovations optimize space for an expanded library collection, which is required to support faculty and undergraduate student training consistent with Kwantlen’s new polytechnic university mandate.
2. Improves energy efficiency: Upgrades to lighting and use of direct digital control systems reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in support of the B.C. Climate Action Plan commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 33 percent by 2010.

Project: Langley Campus renovations to expand to improve learning environment

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves upgrades and renovations to support program initiatives in the areas of sustainability, environmental protection, horticulture and urban agricultural sciences. The project includes upgrading direct digital controls and lighting.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: Enhanced programs in Sustainability, Environmental Protection and Urban Agricultural Sciences contribute to research and development related to energy reduction, sustainable production and productivity.
2. Improves energy efficiency: Upgrades to lighting and use of direct digital control systems reduce energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in support of the B.C. Climate Action Plan commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 33 percent by 2020.

Project: Remediation of Vacated Space

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves remediation of vacant space in buildings A, B, and C. The renovations accommodate 4 classrooms, 50 faculty offices and meeting rooms, and student study space.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The renovated space within the older buildings provide additional classroom and study space to accommodate an additional 300 students and 6 faculty members.

Project: Replacement of pneumatic controls with direct digital controls for HVAC System, South Building renewal to address water infiltration, B Building remediation for water penetration

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating and upgrading various buildings at Langara College. The project involves replacing old pneumatic controls and upgrading the direct digital control system in Building A, reclading the C Building South tower, renovating the linking bridge between the C Building and the A Building to repair leaks that are causing structural failure and remediation work to repair a number of building leaks in the brick façade of the B Building.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Improves energy efficiency: This project improves the energy efficiency by replacing the pneumatic controls with modern direct digital controls that improve operation and energy performance. Further efficiency measures are taken by replacing the wall assembly and the brick façade on two buildings.
2. Upgrades the health and safety aspects of facilities: The upgrades and renovations to the façade of the buildings reduce the chances of sickness and injury due to mould growth and structural deterioration.

Project: Construction of combined lecture theatre/meeting room/gathering place

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a new facility with a 143 seat multi-function lecture theatre on the second floor and a daycare center on the main floor.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project strengthens the institute’s ability to deliver advanced knowledge and skills training programs by providing the space required to bring large groups of up to 143 students together for instruction-related purposes.

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Project: Infrastructure renewal including roof replacements to three buildings and boiler replacement

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renewing and upgrading the infrastructure of various facilities. Upgrades include replacing boilers, hot water tanks, aging roofs, and standard efficiency supply and return fan motors in four air-handling units. Additional improvements involve upgrading various systems to be more energy efficient.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Improves energy efficiency: This project improves energy efficiency by replacing aging roofs and upgrading existing boilers with new medium-efficiency boilers. It is estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 14.94 tonnes of CO2 per year.
2. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: The new roofs reduce the risk of leaks and mould, improving the health and safety of the facilities for staff and students.

Project: Construction of new Skills Development and Trades Training Facility to increase training capacity in mainly construction-related trades (Courtenay Campus)

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of skills development and trades training facility for Red Seal Carpentry, Plumbing and Electrical Trades programs and North Island College’s Marine Training programs. The new single-level timber building accommodates workshops, classrooms, and a covered work area. The facility is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project increases the capacity of the college to retrain displaced resource industry workers. The new facility creates space for an additional 280 full-time equivalent apprentices in Red Seal trades. The shop also provides space for North Island College’s Marine Training programs, including deck watchkeeper and simulated electronic navigation.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The design of the building to meet LEED certification will result in substantial energy savings and Greenhouse gas emissions reduction.

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Project: Upgrades to and renovation of Health Sciences Building to accommodate expanded nursing programs

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating the Health Sciences building to accommodate an expanded nursing program to include the Licensed Practical Nurse program, the Residential Care Attendant program and a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program. Renovations to the facility include installation of a fire suppression system, asbestos removal, upgrading various systems to be more energy efficient and modernizing classrooms, laboratory space and functional areas.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: Renovations and upgrades accommodate 141 students per year in nursing and health-care programs. The renovated facility offers the following certificates, diplomas and degrees: Licensed Practical Nurse, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Home-Care Support and Social Sciences.
2. Improves energy efficiency: Renovations maximize energy efficiency and the building is powered by Energy House through its infrastructure of solar and biomass heating technologies (see Energy House for more information on the college’s energy plan).
3. Upgrades the health and safety aspects of facilities: Health and safety aspects of the facilities are improved by the installation of a fire suppression system and the removal of asbestos.

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Project: Construction of Energy House — Education and Research Facility focusing on Alternative Energy programming

Status of Project: Substantially Completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of an 807 square metre Energy House building for the new Centre of Excellence for Clean Energy Technology. The new centre provides certification and trades skills for the renewable energy sector and supports applied research into renewable energy. The new facility includes two classrooms, meeting facilities and working applications of energy saving, water conservation and renewable heating technologies, such as solar panels and geothermal (ground source) heating. The facility is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: Energy House accommodates an additional 199 full-time equivalent students per year in the trades and technology sector. Energy House offers certificates, diplomas and trade certificates in Wind Turbine Maintenance; Solar Thermal, Solar Electric and Geothermal Installation and Maintenance; Biomass Heating; and Plumbing, specializing in grey water and rainwater collection systems.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The facility is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification. It anchors the Green Campus Strategy to reduce the campus’ carbon footprint, and water and energy use over the next three years. Special environmental features include a design to showcase renewable energy and green building technology in electricity production, solar and geoexchange heating, and water conservation.

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Project: Expansion and renewal of Smithers Campus to address trades shortages, increase functionality and improve learning environment

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project replaces and renews the existing campus at Smithers. A single storey wood frame building is renovated with new interior partitions finishes; roof; windows; exterior wall finish; a heat, ventilation and air conditioning system; handicap access; and a sprinkler system. Furthermore, two new college buildings containing classrooms, labs, public space, offices, and a library are added. The project is designed to meet the requirement of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The project increases the college’s capacity to train students by addressing the current lack of functional and efficient space. The enhanced learning resource centre and science labs support a variety of science and technology programs that are not currently possible due to a lack of adequate facilities. More specifically, the project increases the capacity to train students in advanced areas of trades, health, science and technology by 79 full-time equivalent students.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The design of the facility according to LEED Gold certification requirements improves the campus’ carbon footprint. The project is estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 26.1 tonnes of CO2 per year.
3. Upgrades the health and safety aspects of facilities: The new heat, ventilation and air conditioning system; handicap access; windows; and sprinkler system improve the health and safety aspects of the facilities and prevent the development of potential problems such as mould.

Project: Building of Centre for Green Building Technologies and campus expansion

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a 90,000 square foot, two-storey, multi-purpose Centre for Excellence for Sustainable Trades and Renewable Energy. The new facility includes six trades shops, 30 offices for faculty and administration, student study space, a computer lab with 456 stations and 12 multi-purpose trades classrooms — six accommodating 20 students each, four accommodating 40 students each and two accommodating 54 students each. The building is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The new centre provides space for an additional 320 students in trades and technology training focusing on sustainable building technologies and the use of alternative and renewable energy sources. In addition, the project provides additional space for 20 students in the newly established Applied Conservation Technician program, and development of the third and fourth year Electrical Apprenticeship program.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The facility is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification by promoting the use of alternative energy sources (solar, wind and ground-source geothermal) for heating and cooling. The centre serves as a demonstration facility for the use of alternative energy sources and improves Okanagan College’s carbon footprint by helping to achieve its goal of carbon neutrality.

Project: Expansion/renovation of trades training facility in Salmon Arm to increase access

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves a 2,783 square foot expansion to the Salmon Arm trades facility and constructing a 6,456 square foot covered work area. The expansion and new facility include classrooms, shops and office space to accommodate trades training in Carpentry levels 3 and 4, women in trades programs and Aboriginal careers in trades.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project allows the college to accommodate more trades students and expand the program offered. The expanded facility accommodates 96 additional spaces for Apprenticeship Carpentry levels 3 and 4, and 48 additional spaces for entry level trades students in the gateway to trades program, women in trades program and Aboriginal careers in trades. In addition, the expansion creates four full-time teaching positions at the college.

Project: New Pacific Cost University Disability Management and Research and Education Institution

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a 15,000 square foot multi-purpose facility for combined research and delivery of education on-site and online in the interdisciplinary fields of Workplace Safety, Occupational Health, Disability Management and Leadership Studies both nationally and internationally. The new building includes a library, a lecture theatre, three classrooms, and faculty/administration offices. The new facility is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: This project increases research and development in workplace health and safety, disability management, rehabilitation and leadership studies.
2. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The new lecture theatres increase the capacity to train students.
3. Improves energy efficiency: The facility is constructed with the latest environmental materials/technologies and is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, resulting in improved energy efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

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Project: Construction of Innovative Learning Commons within the Learning and Innovation Centre

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves constructing a 1,837 square metre Innovative Learning Commons on the second floor of the Learning and Innovation Centre. The Innovative Learning Commons is a social science laboratory that supports research, technology development, learning and professional development using sophisticated media-rich communication technologies and tools. The new commons includes 45 computer stations, a media laboratory equipped with a production studio with a control and sound booth, a computer lab and classroom, a group multimedia breakout room and administration offices. The new, state-of-the-art building is designed to meet a minimum gold standard in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) criteria.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Develops incubation facilities for industry and research: The new centre provides space for the Digital Innovation for Mobile Engagement (DIME) project. This project provides a hands-on environment to develop and test leading-edge applications and tools to support mobile engagement. DIME researchers explore partnering options in the communications industry, including manufacturers of hand-held devices and software developers.
2. Expands or enhances the utility of training space: The new centre provides space for formal and informal learning activities that support development of competencies in areas of human computer interactions, computer-mediated communication and media production. It offers a range of experiential and research opportunities using advanced media technologies and provides a hands-on environment to develop and test.
3. Improves energy efficiency: The new facility is constructed with the latest environmental technologies and design to meet LEED Silver certification.

Project: Replacement of the existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning system to improve energy efficiency and allow summer programming

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves replacement of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. The new system is comprised of a chilled-water cooling system, which is being added to three buildings that did not previously have cooling. The upgrade involves removing the roof structure from three rooftop mechanical penthouses located on each building and removing the mechanical equipment.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project improves cooling of campus facilities, enabling the institution to offer programs during the summer.
2. Improves energy efficiency: This project reduces electricity consumption by 78 % and greenhouse gas emissions by 6 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Project: Phased renewal of the existing Schrum Science Centre to improve research space and address deferred maintenance needs

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves replacing old infrastructure and systems with high-efficiency systems and controls. The project addresses deferred maintenance in the chemistry labs, renovates space for science research, and redesigns laboratory areas to allow easy adaptation to changing research and academic needs.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: The project increases the quality of space available for science research. Laboratory areas are redesigned to allow easy adaptation to changing research and academic needs. Renewal of the chemistry building enables the institution to maximize its potential to generate new knowledge.
2. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The project helps the university train the next generation of researchers in disciplines such as biomedical engineering and medical technologies, fuel cells, health and aging, regenerative medicine and neuroscience.
3. Upgrades the health and safety aspects of facilities: The renewal of the Shrum Science Centre improved the quality of existing research space and brought them up to current health, safety and security code. In addition to improvements made to systems required for modern science research, improvements have been made to general circulation and emergency systems.

Project: Surrey Campus — Podium 2 expansion

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves expanding the Surrey campus by renovating 54,000 square feet of owned space in the complex’s Podium 2 level and 3,500 square feet of leased space in the basement. The expansion accommodates the addition of 20 new dry classrooms and teaching laboratories in Biology, Chemistry and Kinesiology; a lecture theatre; support space and offices. Additional renovations include improving existing space by installing new electrical and mechanical fixtures, efficient lighting and occupancy controls.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: The Surrey campus is the South Fraser’s only research campus, and serves British Columbia’s largest school district. The campus is currently conducting leading-edge research in interactive arts and technology, visual analytics, cybercrime, mechatronics and computing science. This project will expand programs in those areas as well as in health sciences.
2. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The project will help Simon Fraser University meet South Fraser’s demand for a highly skilled workforce by expanding knowledge infrastructure at its Surrey location to serve projected enrolment growth.
3. Develops incubation facilities for industry and research: This project will expand the institution’s Venture Connection’s incubator space for new spinoff companies at the Surrey campus. Venture Connection has been funded by support from Western Economic Diversification and Coast Capital.

Project: Renovate deteriorating building elements

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating various buildings at Thompson Rivers University. The project includes completing overdue repairs to the roofs of five buildings and safety upgrades to the university’s largest instructional building — Old Main. The project also includes upgrading the information technology infrastructure on campus and replacing 55 information technology network switches; retrofitting fluorescent lighting systems with energy saving lamps and high efficiency electronic ballasts and replacing metal halide lighting systems; adding occupancy sensors in classrooms, washrooms and hallways; and adding daylight sensors in atriums and lobbies and reprogramming central lighting controls.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: Safety upgrades and replacement of several roofs ensure that research and development and related training infrastructure meet current building and safety codes. Upgrades also mitigate risks in the event of an emergency or disaster; for example, information technology upgrades enhance emergency response capabilities on campus.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The energy efficiency measures taken by the University are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 281.4 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Project: House of Learning

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovation of the House of Learning facility and construction of a 30,000 square foot addition to accommodate a new library, learning commons and First Nations learning suite. The renovated 63,000 square foot facility includes classrooms, office space and a living wall. The project is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances the utility of Research and Development space: The project increased research capacity by 28 full-time equivalent researchers.
2. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The project increases the capacity of training at the university by 504 full-time equivalent students.
3. Improves energy efficiency: The facility is constructed with the latest environmental materials/technologies and is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Project: Neufeld Science Centre Expansion

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovation of the current Neufeld Science Centre and expansion of the facility by 8,624 square feet. The new addition houses an animal care facility, a nuclear magnetic resonance equipment room, biology and chemistry research laboratories, a tissue culture room, a conference room and office space. Renovations to the existing facility include upgrading the electrical system, installing energy-efficient windows, and repairing the roof and building envelope.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: This project provides the infrastructure and training space for the School of Nursing and for development of graduate programs in Biology and Chemistry.
2. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: The new facility improves biosecurity standards by providing space for proper control and storage of microbial samples, cells and tissues, and research animals as well as security alarms to restrict access to research personnel only. In addition, renovations to the high-efficiency particulate air filters and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system improve air quality and minimize exposure to hazardous materials.
3. Expands or enhances the utility of Research and Development space: The expansion increases research productivity and enables Trinity Western University to expand research and business partnerships, and provides opportunities for highly qualified personnel.

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Project: Information and Communications Technology Upgrade

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves upgrading information and communications technologies (ICTs) at Trinity Western University. The project includes upgrading network switches and wireless and networking technology, expanding network storage and campus voice over Internet protocol solution handsets, and completing the campus emergency response system.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: The integration of all campus information and communication technology infrastructure expedites the implementation of an efficient and reliable emergency response and alert system.

Project: Okanagan Campus: conversion of existing buildings to geoexchange system

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves retrofitting existing buildings on the Okanagan campus to accommodate a geoexchange system to provide heating and cooling. The existing geoexchange system was installed in 2006, but only in new buildings. This project extends the system to the extent that it becomes one of the largest and best-monitored open-loop campus geoexchange systems in North America.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Improves energy efficiency: The geoexchange system reduces campus fossil fuel use by more than 80 percent — from 20,000 GJ to 1,900 GJ per annum. The first phase of the system reduced carbon dioxide emissions to 62 percent, and the second phase will reduce emissions further to 88 percent, 1024 tonnes annually. The institution is emissions free (carbon negative) relative to its 2006 baseline.

Project: Renewal and improvement of Biological Sciences West and South

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renewing two aging and deteriorating buildings to provide state-of-the-art natural life sciences research and teaching laboratories. The project renews all building systems — electrical, structural, seismic, mechanical, ventilation and plumbing.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: Renewal of the Biological Sciences Complex West and South is central to the performance of cutting-edge research. In addition, the project allows the aquatic animal facility to support fisheries/environmental research on the human impact on the aquatic environment and feedback to human health. Improvements support a focus on best fish-farming practices and also prevent possible system failure that could result in the loss of research data.
2. Expands or enhances utility of training space: Renewal of the Biological Sciences Complex supports teaching university-level biology and the institution’s goal of world-class leadership in natural life sciences. The project is central to delivering high-quality undergraduate and graduate courses in Biological Sciences.
3. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: The project addresses a wide range of health and safety issues at the two facilities, including air quality and adequate fire alarm and sprinkler systems.

Project: Extension and upgrading of HVAC infrastructure

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves upgrading the heating and cooling infrastructure. The plant and piping system in place prior to the upgrade supplied the entire building through a single pipe distribution system. This project includes a loop upgrade element that improves flow conditions.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Improves energy efficiency: This project reduces energy consumption, improves flow characteristics and reduces maintenance costs, which improves operational redundancy to the heating and cooling system. The project is estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 641.3 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Project: New technology project to convert waste forest wood into a biogas fossil-fuel alternative

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a biomass gasification system and its integration into the main heating system for the entire campus. The new system, which converts waste forest wood into a biogas fossil-fuel alternative, includes an integrated research laboratory. The project is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Improves energy efficiency:

   The project addresses environmental concerns and promotes environmentally conscious practices. The Wastewood plant provides a cleaner energy source by converting waste forest wood into biogas as an alternative to fossil fuels, helping the university meet current and future energy needs and reduce energy costs. The practical implementation phase of this project involves applying operational insights and research information to communities of various sizes and assisting them in creating solutions to environmental and economic challenges.

   This project showcases how British Columbia technology can be implemented in northern and First Nations communities, utilizing mountain pine beetle biomass waste to create energy. The Wastewood plant serves as a prototype for this type of technology.

   Along with a project undertaken at Harvard University, this University of Northern British Columbia project was awarded the 2010 top prize from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education for its ability to connect teaching and research to campus operations, while serving as a model for communities and other campuses.

   It is estimated that the project would reduce greenhouse gas emissions of the university by 3,434 tonnes of CO2 per year.

2. Expands or enhances the utility of Research and Development space: While the Bio-Energy Plant's main role is to provide heat to the university, another function is to provide research opportunities for Environmental Engineering students and Environmental Science students as well as other bio-energy related research groups. The laboratory’s capacity is 5 researchers or students.

Project: Upgrade of existing infrastructure and installation of new infrastructure to support the development of the new Canada Education Park on the Chilliwack Campus.

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating and upgrading the infrastructure of the former military engineering building, and constructing a new training and research facility. The new facilities consist of classrooms, a new library, student assembly and theatre space, a biomass research facility, science laboratories and a purpose-built greenhouse. The buildings house programs in Health Sciences and feature an Aboriginal gathering place. The facilities are designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Renovation of 50,000 square feet in the former military engineering building accommodates classrooms, laboratories, research facilities and offices.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The new facilities increase the university’s training capacity for environmental science, energy technologies (biomass and agriscience), health-related life sciences, and information and communication technologies.
2. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: Renovated and new facilities include a library and science laboratories to expand research in areas such as defence.
3. Improves energy efficiency: The facility is constructed with the latest environmental materials/technologies and is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, resulting in improved energy efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Project: Renewal and improvement of several 40-year-old buildings

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renewal of six campus buildings that are, on average, 40 years old. These buildings include Cornett, Clearihue, Elliot, MacLaurin, Cunningham and the University Centre. The project involves expanding research facilities, renovating laboratories, replacing building systems and implementing seismic upgrades.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: This project supports research by increasing and improving laboratory space.
2. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: This project improves the health and safety of the facility by addressing various issues including removing hazardous materials and upgrading fire protection systems.
3. Improves energy efficiency: Renovations implemented such as upgrades to HVAC systems, mechanical systems and physical infrastructure (windows and light fixtures) in each of the 6 buildings significantly reduced the overall energy requirements and will result in an estimated reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of around 700 tonnes per year.

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Project: Upgrade/renewal of building envelope systems to increase safety and energy consumption at Broadway and Downtown Campuses.

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves renovating and updating the Broadway campus. Renovations include building repair, membrane replacement over underground building spaces, drainage tile installation and pipe replacement. Additional upgrades include replacing the 30-year-old boilers with new high-efficiency units.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Improves energy efficiency: This project reduces emissions and increases energy efficiency by replacing 30-year-old boilers with high-efficiency units and replacing old leaking windows.
2. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: This project improves the health and safety of the facility by addressing the general deterioration of the buildings and by replacing leaking windows and skylights.

Project: Deep Bay Field Station to support sustainable shellfish aquaculture development

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves constructing the Deep Bay field research station as a key facility for Vancouver Island University’s Centre for Shellfish Research. The objective of the new research station is to enhance the research and innovation system that supports the development of a sustainable shellfish aquaculture industry in British Columbia. This field research station will be unique in its design and the scope of its planned programming. The research station is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of research and development space: The objective of the new research station is to enhance the research and innovation system that supports the development of a sustainable shellfish aquaculture industry in British Columbia. This field research station is unique in its design and the scope of its planned programming. The project accelerates knowledge application by linking research with training.
2. Improves energy efficiency: Thanks to its LEED Platinum certification, the station promotes and showcases practical applications of alternative technologies for energy and water usage, thus improving energy efficiency.

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Project: Construction of a new campus to replace existing leased facilities in Cowichan

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a 3,784 square metre multi-use campus through a partnership with the Cowichan School District, District of North Cowichan and City of Duncan. The new campus facility includes classroom and laboratory space, offices, a library and a conference/meeting room. The campus is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances the utility of training space: This new, state-of-the-art facility provides a superior venue for post-secondary educational needs in the Cowichan Valley. With the exception of a specialized Health Lab and Science Wet Lab, the entire campus is designed as a multi-purpose facility. This enables maximum flexibility for course programming and space utilization. A 110 seat Lecture Theatre, adjacent to a Video-conferencing classroom, provides state-of-the-art technology for virtual learning. The project increased the number of full-time equivalent students that can be accommodated by 188.
2. Improves energy efficiency: This project supports energy-efficient buildings and sustainable campus planning, resulting in reduced energy consumption. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions by over 40 percent of current standards. The facility is designed to meet the requirements of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification to target carbon neutrality, allowing for the new campus to support environmental well-being.

Project: Construction of Powell River Trades Facility — Powell River Campus

Status of Project: Substantially completed

Project Description

This project involves construction of a 418 square metre facility for the Automotive Service Technician and Carpentry Apprenticeship programs. The new building includes a 200 square metre automotive shop, a 165 square metre carpentry shop and offices. The facility is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

Primary Areas of Benefit

1. Expands or enhances utility of training space: The new facility improves the university’s capacity to train students in carpentry and automotive trades.
2. Improves energy efficiency: The facility is constructed with the latest environmental materials/technologies and is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, resulting in improved energy efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Upgrades health and safety aspects of facilities: Improvements to indoor air quality, ventilation, lighting, natural lighting and storm drainage to meet current standards enhance health and safety aspects of the facility.