The renovation of the former Fergus high school is moving yet another step forward now that the “Eagle’s Nest” capital campaign has raised over $3 million.
The overall goal is to raise $4.7 million for the renovation and addition for the new Emmanuel Christian High School at the corner of Tower Street and Belsyde Avenue.
“The response to the campaign from parents, students and the community has been fantastic,” says capital campaign committee chair Ilse VanderMeulen.
“Many people are happy to see this beautiful building being restored to its original purpose: a place of education.”
In the new year the committee will continue to provide opportunities for residents to support the renovation and addition of a full-size gym. Developments and events can be found on the project’s website at www.projectnest.ca.
“We are excited to announce that local fiddler Scott Woods is willing to support the project with a concert on April 23, 2015. Our high school orchestra will join him during the performance,” said VanderMeulen.
Pre-Christmas ticket sales for the concert are available at the ECHS office (519-843-3029) and at Hutten Collision in Fergus.
Officials say the total raised to date – $3,076,604 – will provide a good financial foundation to start the renovation of the building.
Budget Environmental has been working hard to remove all hazardous elements from the building safely, project organizers say.
In the meantime, the school’s property committee is working with consultants to produce drawings and necessary documentation for site plan approval.
ECHS officials say the group appreciates that the Centre Wellington Heritage Committee has been accommodating thus far during the school’s work on the project.
Plans for the new school include a new gymnasium, a new front entrance and office space, while the existing classroom space will be refurbished and ready for use as a modern school.
Additions will bring the total building footprint up to 32,000 square feet and allow for a capacity of 330 students.
About 180 students currently attend Emmanuel Christian High School from Owen Sound, Listowel, Orangeville, Elora, Grand Valley, Fergus and Guelph.
Online donations can be made at www.ProjectNest.ca or cheques can be made to ECHS with “Project Eagle’s Nest” on the memo line.
