Ground has been broken on a brand-new elementary school in Port Elgin following a ceremonial groundbreaking on Friday.
Backed by a $20.9 million provincial investment, including a $3 million top-up in additional funding, the Ontario government has cleared the Bluewater District School Board to issue the construction tender for the facility. Once the doors open, the school will create 409 new elementary spaces designed to accommodate rising enrolment and support Port Elgin's rapidly growing population.
"Today's groundbreaking is an exciting milestone for the Town of Saugeen Shores and the families who call this community home," said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce. "Our government continues to make strategic investments in the schools and infrastructure our communities need to grow. This investment will help create 409 elementary student spaces, where they can learn, grow and reach their full potential."
Education Minister Paul Calandra noted that the build aims to give educators and families updated learning environments tailored to modern student needs.
"Our government is focused on supporting students, teachers and parents while ensuring school boards are equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed," said Paul Calandra, Minister of Education. "Once completed, this project will provide students with a modern, inspiring environment to learn, grow and build the skills they need for the future."
The project falls under the province's broader $236 billion capital infrastructure plan, which is aimed at accelerating builds across the education, transit, and healthcare sectors. Since 2018, provincial capital investments in education have topped $7.6 billion, funding 209 new schools alongside 161 additions and renovations, while adding more than 150,000 student spaces and 11,000 licensed child care spaces across Ontario. For the 2026-27 school year alone, boards are receiving $1.4 billion for school renewal and improvements.
"Building and renewing Ontario's infrastructure is a key part of our government's plan to protect the economy, keep workers on the job, and support the next generation of Ontarians," said David Piccini, Minister of Infrastructure. "Through our $236 billion capital plan, we are getting shovels in the ground faster to build new and improved schools, transit, hospitals and other critical infrastructure for communities across the province."
Local school board officials credited collaboration between municipal partners, provincial ministries, and staff for moving the build into its next phase.
"It is a historical day in Saugeen Shores as shovels enter the ground to officially begin the next phase of the new Port Elgin school build that will accommodate student enrolment growth and better serve local families," said Jane Thomson, Bluewater District School Board Chair. "We are deeply thankful to the Ministry of Education for their significant investment to meet an important community need, MPP Lisa Thompson for her continued advocacy and support, as well as our school board staff, contractors, and municipal and community partners working diligently behind the scenes to bring this project to life."
