Province looking to partner with private companies to build schools

The province is planning to enlist private sector funds and support to build three new schools in the Winnipeg area and one in Brandon with a total value of more than $100 million.

The province and the Public Schools Finance Board released a call for proposals for the projects today, and the turnaround requested is quick.  Potential bidders only have until June 15 to make their pitch, with a plan to award contracts starting in August.

The goal is for the projects to use public private partnerships (P3s).  Typically with P3s, public infrastructure projects are built by private sector contractors that assume most of the financing and construction risks, and while the public sector ultimately owns the asset, the private partner continues to make money on it once its in use. 

 This deal would see one new elementary school built in Seven Oaks, another in The Maples and a third in southeast Brandon.  The new high school is planned for the Pembina Trails – Waverley West area.

“The P3 model has proved to be very successful across Canada and in Saskatchewan in particular for such projects.  We have studied these approaches carefully and believe a similar innovative procurement delivery model could mean cost savings and better value for Manitobans,” said Premier Brian Pallister.

 Plans for P3 schools in other parts of the country have not been without controversy.  Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Alberta and Saskatchewan have all dabbled with them with varying results.  The province has identified many of the potential downsides to such arrangements as things it plans to avoid in these deals such as them ultimately costing taxpayers more, builds taking longer and quality being compromised. 

 “This new approach will not result in any delays for the construction of new schools and other capital projects,” said Wishart.  “Construction of new schools for Winkler and Niverville, our top priority projects based on high enrolment in these divisions, will be pursued through the traditional procurement model.” 

While the buildings themselves will be funded differently, Wishart said none of that is expected to change what gets taught inside those classrooms.   He said these schools will be operated by their respective school boards and will deliver education services just like all other schools within the boards’ jurisdictions. 

-News4 Staff-

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