BRANTFORD – The provincial and federal governments are contributing $13 million each to help Wilfrid Laurier University build a state-of-the art Research and Academic Centre on the university’s fast-growing Laurier Brantford campus.

The Research and Academic Centre is a key part of a development strategy that will significantly increase enrolment and research capability at Laurier Brantford. The project will culminate in a facility that will enable the Brantford campus to grow to 4,000 students by 2012 from the present 2,200 students. It will provide research and teaching space for a number of programs, as well as library facilities and administrative areas.

The building, to be located on Dalhousie Street, will incorporate environmental and energy efficient design elements, and the university is aiming to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) silver certification for the facility.

The funding announced today will enable construction to start immediately on Phase 1 of the project. Much of the site preparation has already been done and the building is scheduled to open by fall 2010. A proposed second phase is dependent on securing appropriate funding.

“The Research and Academic Centre is an important step in the on-going development of Laurier Brantford as a campus that provides comprehensive university infrastructure and services,” said Laurier president Dr. Max Blouw. “We very much appreciate the support shown by the federal and provincial governments and we look forward to a continued strong partnership with both levels of government and, of course, our long-standing municipal partners.”

Dr. Bruce Arai, acting principal/vice-president of Laurier Brantford, said the new building will be a significant addition to the Heritage Block in downtown Brantford and will become a focal point for students, staff and faculty.

“This announcement is tremendous for Laurier Brantford, and for the communities of Brantford and Brant County,” said Arai. “With this investment, the Brantford campus will continue to be a leader in Ontario for high-quality, innovative academic programs, while doubling our student enrolment and creating the research infrastructure needed for growth and academic excellence.”

Brant MP Phil McColeman said the funding benefits both the university and the community.

"The Government of Canada's investment in Laurier Brantford will provide a significant economic stimulus to this community, it will create jobs in this region, and will continue to positively impact our local economy for years to come,” said McColeman.

Brant MPP Dave Levac said the investments in post-secondary education build on a dream that many in the Brant area have worked on for a long time.

“Every stakeholder and supporter working together is building a bright future for this riding,” he said. “When all three levels of government work together and with other partners, we can accomplish anything. I have been a huge supporter and tireless advocate for this vision since 1999 and will do so into the future.”

The federal contribution announced today is part of the Government of Canada’s Knowledge Infrastructure Program. The provincial contribution is part of a commitment by the Government of Ontario in its 2009 budget to invest in post-secondary institutions across the province.