Toronto, May 1, 2014 – Planning for one of the largest revitalization and expansion projects in Seneca’s history is now underway at King Campus. Featured in the 2014 provincial budget as one of the key postsecondary expansion projects in Ontario, the College and Infrastructure Ontario have jointly issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) to pre-qualify companies to design, build and finance the first phase of the Seneca King Campus expansion in King City, York Region.
“We are delighted that the provincial government is investing in the future of so many Seneca students to support the first phase of our King Campus renewal,” said David Agnew, President of Seneca College. “This project will allow Seneca to continue to meet the needs of our students while expanding the programs we offer at this key location in northern York Region.”
Responding to the growing demand for postsecondary education, the first phase will revitalize the campus by modernizing current facilities and building more space for students while expanding the College’s programming in health and community services, pathways and natural environment and sustainability.
The number of full-time students at King Campus will grow by 1,450 to a total of more than 5,000. The project includes:
- a new academic building with approximately 25 new classrooms, computer labs, specialty labs for training health care practitioners, library, learning commons and student study space;
- a new student centre including a multi-purpose athletic and recreation spacewith a gymnasium, fitness centre, informal study areas and event spaces, partially funded by the Seneca Student Federation and the Student Athletic Association; and,
- upgrades to Garriock Hall – the main existing academic building – and to existing site services.
Animal health, social services, policing and public safety, nursing and recreational studies are among the programs offered at King Campus, the former Eaton family estate, located on 282 hectares (700 acres) that include a lake, forested areas and fields within the Oak Ridges Moraine. Stewardship of these natural areas will continue to be a priority for the College.
In June 2011 the province announced an investment of $43 million to support the project. The College, the Seneca Student Federation, and the Student Athletic Association are also contributing to the project.
With campuses across the Greater Toronto Area, Seneca offers degrees, diplomas and certificates renowned for their quality and respected by employers. Combining the highest academic standards with practical, hands-on learning, expert teaching faculty and the latest technology ensures Seneca graduates are career-ready.