[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/bentley_marsales_PG.jpg” caption=”(From L to R): Mohawk College President MaryLynn West-Moynes, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities, Chris Bentley, Judy Marsales, MPP, Hamilton-West, and McMaster President Peter George at the announcement yesterday. Photo credit: Melissa Price”]Yesterday McMaster University received $1.8-million from the Ontario government toward upgrades to buildings and facilities.

The announcement was made at Mohawk College by Chris Bentley, minister of Training, Colleges and Universities.
McMaster President Peter George, said the money is “an encouraging sign” that the province understands the critical need to fund infrastructure improvements at post-secondary institutions across the province.

“What appears to be a bricks-and-mortar investment goes far deeper,” said George. “Investments like these allow us to create a better learning environment for our students. It's hard to concentrate in a classroom when the roof is leaking or the lighting is flickering. We're grateful for the government's help. Its ongoing commitment to facilities renewal is critically important to the quality of campus life for our students, faculty and staff.”

In addition to classroom upgrades in Chester New Hall and the Psychology Building, the University has spent nearly $800,000 on waterproofing and other repairs to the Arts Quad. Extensive roof repairs have been undertaken (E.T. Clarke Building, Kenneth Taylor Hall), windows replaced (Arthur Bourns Science Building and John Hodgins Engineering Building), and washrooms renovated to improve accessibility.

George says the cost to upgrade McMaster's buildings and classrooms alone exceeds $200-million.

The government's announcement is part of an overall plan to invest more than $30-million in Ontario's infrastructure over the next five years.