Eric Hamber $80 million school replacement largest seismic project in Vancouver history

Students at a secondary school in South Cambiewill be moving into a new building by 2022, in whatthe province is callingthe largest seismic project in Vancouver's history.

The B.C. government is spendingnearly $80 million toreplace Eric Hamber Secondary. The new school will be built beside the current building on Willow Street and 33rd Ave.

Eric Hamber Secondary which serves 1,700 students in Grades 8-12 opened in 1962 and has been renovated and expanded several times over the years.

The building still needs more updating and has been deemed high-risk in the event of an earthquake.

"Not only will the replacement school be saferin the event of an earthquake, our intent is to provide an even more welcoming environment for our students and staff in a facilitywith more opportunities for community activities," said Vancouver school board chair Janet Fraser in a statement.

Construction to start 2020

Students will stay in the school during construction, which is slated to start in2020.

The province says keeping students in the school, rather than moving them to portables, will saveabout $16 million.

It says other options would require a phased approach, which would mean a longerconstruction time and a higher price tag.

The school will be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold standards andinclude a child-care facility.

The province has spent close to $70 million since September on seismic replacements of Vancouver schools.

That includes $22.4 million on Sir Matthew Begbie Elementary, $24.5 million on BayviewElementary and $24.2 million on David Lloyd George Elementary.

The new Eric HamberSchool is expected to open in the fall of2022..

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