(Photo: courtesy MP Dominic Leblanc Facebook page)

Much-needed upgrades for Mount Allison University in Sackville, thanks to a joint investment from the federal and provincial governments.

Funding to the amount of $36 million dollars for upgrades to the Ralph Pickard Bell Library and connected breezeway.

Beausejour MP Dominic Leblanc says this will transform the space into an innovation and learning hub, “Featuring modern spaces and resources to further enhance and deepen the student experience at Mount Allison.

Additions include digital teaching and learning resources, audio-visual media labs and broadcasting studios, an incubator space for student-led start-ups, community spaces, and Indigenous knowledge space.

Upgrades also include LED lighting, water optimization systems and a new HVAC system, which reduce the building’s environmental footprint.

These enhancements will also provide opportunities to connect businesses and employers with students and faculty as well as community members.

The Government of Canada is investing $26 million towards the hub for innovation and learning, while Mount Allison University will raise the remainder of project costs over and above the federal and provincial contributions. Funds are coming from the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

The New Brunswick government is contributing $10 million for programming.

“Receiving the largest public sector gift in the University’s history means we can forge ahead on an innovative project that will transform the heart of our campus and significantly enhance our academic mission, as well as the student experience,” says Dr. Jean-Paul Boudreau, President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Allison University.