Hamilton Set to Benefit from New French-Language School Complex
Hamilton, Ontario is poised for a significant investment in its French-language education infrastructure. A landmark land exchange agreement, signed on February 25, 2026, between the City of Hamilton and the Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir (Csc MonAvenir) and Conseil scolaire Viamonde, will pave the way for a state-of-the-art school complex and a new public park.
Land Exchange Details and Benefits
The agreement involves the exchange of two parcels of land. The City of Hamilton is transferring a 14-acre site at 700 Garner Road East in Ward 12 to the school boards for the construction of a joint secondary school. In return, the school boards are transferring a 9.5-acre site at 16 Broughton Avenue in Ward 6 to the city, which will be developed into a public park.
Mayor Andrea Horwath emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating that it was the result of “years of determined advocacy, partnership and hard work.” The new school will address the growing necessitate for French-language secondary education in the Ancaster area, while the park will preserve valuable greenspace for residents.
A Milestone for Francophone Education
The project represents a major step forward for the Francophone community in Hamilton. Nicole Mollot, Director of Education for Csc MonAvenir, expressed gratitude for the progress made, highlighting the importance of providing equitable educational facilities for French-speaking students. Sébastien Fontaine, Director of Education for Cs Viamonde, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the partnership between the two school boards to ensure the vitality of the Francophone community.
The land exchange addresses frustrations voiced by the community as early as 2022 regarding the lack of progress in expanding French-language education options.
Project Timeline and Future Steps
With the land exchange finalized, the next steps involve launching a bidding process to select a contractor for the construction of the school complex. A formal groundbreaking ceremony is planned to mark the beginning of construction. The anticipated completion date for the new school is fall 2028.
Community Impact and Collaboration
The project demonstrates a strong commitment to collaboration between the City of Hamilton and its French-language school boards. Mayor Horwath underscored the importance of working together to strengthen neighborhoods and deliver results for Hamiltonians. Both school boards expressed their desire for continued collaboration with the city throughout the administrative and technical phases of the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the land exchange? The land exchange will allow for the construction of a new French-language school and the creation of a new public park.
- Where will the new school be located? The new school will be located at 700 Garner Road East in Ward 12.
- Where will the new park be located? The new park will be located at 16 Broughton Avenue in Ward 6.
- When is the new school expected to open? The new school is anticipated to open in the fall of 2028.
Stay Connected: Follow the Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates on this exciting project.
Did you know? The Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir serves students from kindergarten to grade 12 across a vast territory spanning from the Niagara Peninsula to Peterborough.
