Provincial Release:
Parents, students and community members received the news they were hoping for — the new Bedford High School will be built on Innovation Drive.

"Innovation Drive is in the heart of the community, and will be an excellent place to build the new high school for Bedford and Hammonds Plains residents," MLA Mat Whynott said today, Dec. 14, on behalf of Education Minister Marilyn More. "The school will provide learning opportunities for Bedford and Hammonds Plains area students and families for many years.

"The community expressed that they preferred this site and with their tremendous support, I'm pleased to announce the province is ready to move forward."

Mr. Whynott was joined by HRM Mayor Peter Kelly and representatives from Halifax Regional School Board in Bedford for the announcement.

Work has been taking place so that the province would have a smooth transition into detailed design once the site was selected. The work included a design visioning session, green workshop, student workshop as well as school steering team meetings to discuss school planning philosophies. The next step is to move forward with detailed design so construction can begin.

"This inspiring educational facility is a major expression of faith in the future success of our young people," said Mayor Kelly. "I am particularly impressed that students themselves have been part of the design process."

The province's contribution to the project is about $37 million, with municipal enhancements to be determined. The school opening date will be announced when the design phase is completed. The school will be designed to house students in grades 9-12.

"I'm pleased that the government has recognized the need for a new high school in Bedford and the value in locating it at this particular site," said David Finlayson, District 7 school board member. "Not only will the school be built to meet the needs of 21st century learners, it will serve the greater community as a whole."