VANCOUVER ISLAND

Ten Vancouver Island schools poised to get new playgrounds

CTV Vancouver Island

Yvonne Raymond CTV News Vancouver Island Journalist

@CTVNewsYvonne Contact

Published Friday, March 15, 2019 12:29PM PDT Last Updated Friday, March 15, 2019 12:35PM PDT

Lochlan Higgs is seen climbing at the Terra Nova Adventure playground in Richmond, B.C.

Text:

Ten Vancouver Island schools are on a provincial list to see new playgrounds built on their property this year, following a multi-million dollar investment in a total of 34 B.C. school districts.

The NDP Government says it’s committed to building 50 new playgrounds across the province as a way of bringing more accessible learning environments to kids and to reduce fundraising pressures on parents.

As a parent himself, B.C.’s education minister says he understands how tough it can be first-hand.

"Our government is committed to improving the learning environment at B.C. schools - safe, fun and accessible playgrounds are very much part of delivering on this commitment,” says Rob Fleming.

The “Playground Equipment Program” launched in May 2018. This year $5 million will build 50 new play structures by the fall – and 30 of them will be universally accessible.

School districts apply for the funding and the province says the playgrounds are funded base on greatest need.

On Vancouver Island, nine school districts and 10 schools have been chosen from Greater Victoria to as far north as Campbell River.

You can see the island-based projects here:

Greater Victoria School District (SD 61)