When will the new school be complete and when will students start taking classes in the new school?
The targeted completion date for the new school building is Summer 2020, with intent to obtain occupancy in time for the return of students in the Fall 2020.
How many students will the new school be built for?
The school is being built to accommodate 1300 students.
Have new housing developments in Lynn Valley been taken into account when determining the capacity of the new school?
The school district works with professional planners to look at the broad scope of potential impacts on school enrolment numbers, including demographic changes, enrolment patterns, and residential developments planned in the community.
What will the new school look like?
Here are some renderings of what the new school will look like:
What are some of the key features of the new school?The new school is designed to support 21st century learning, with elements such as learning pods, multiuse adaptable spaces, a multiuse theatre, open spaces, and lots of natural light.
How was community input integrated into the design?
- A committee of staff and students was formed (Argyle Design Development Input Team) and the committee was consulted during the design phase to determine what their needs are for a new school.
- A project steering committee was formed (specifically community user groups) and community input was gathered at intervals throughout the design development process through school tours and other input meetings.
- A public meeting was held at the school to obtain community feedback. Community feedback was also obtained via online submissions, in particular relating to parking, traffic flow and playing fields; this feedback was used to determine final designs.
When will construction on the new field start?
The old school will be demolished in late Fall 2020 and construction on the new field will begin shortly after (likely in Spring 2021).
When will the new field be complete and ready for use?
The scope and type of new field has not yet been determined. The District of North Vancouver Parks Department has expressed an interest in establishing a partnership to develop an artificial turf field. The School District and District of North Vancouver will continue to work towards this goal. Construction scheduling will be determined upon confirmation of municipal support.
How can we voice our opinion (support) for a turf field?
You can demonstrate your support for a turf field by emailing District of North Vancouver Mayor and Council.
Who is the contractor building the school?
DGS Construction is the contractor building the new Argyle Secondary. DGS is a family-owned company with 36 years of experience in large scale construction projects, primarily focused on constructing new schools. They currently have several projects under construction for the Vancouver School Board and have worked previously on projects within the North Vancouver School District.
What is the budget?
The construction budget for the project is roughly $61 million.
Is the project on time?
It took longer than expected to secure a contractor for the project, so the project has fallen behind schedule; however, the targeted occupancy date for fall of 2020 remains unchanged.
Who can we contact for more information?
Updates will be posted to the school district website here: https://www.sd44.ca/Board/CapitalPlanProjects/CapitalProjectsUpdates/Argyle/Pages/default.aspx. For further questions, comments and feedback, please send to feedback@sd44.ca.
August 9, 2018
Check out the layout design for the new Argyle Secondary School
July 13, 2018
June 7, 2018
Argyle Full Replacement Project Update
Argyle Capital Project Update - June 2018
November 3, 2017
Argyle Full Replacement Project Update
Conceptual image prepared for the District of North Vancouver Development Permit Application.
October 16, 2017
Argyle Full Replacement Project Update
Argyle Capital Project Update - October 2017 - PDF
November 29, 2016
Argyle Replacement Project - Renderings and Feedback
North Vancouver
School District is proposing to replace the existing Argyle Secondary
School, located at 1131 Frederick Road. The new school is being designed
to accommodate 1200 students, with additional space for up to 100 more
students funded by the School District. The new school will also be
designed to support other community functions.
The
new Argyle Secondary School and associated parking will be constructed
on the existing grass and gravel play fields at the east end of the
property. Following completion of construction of the new school, the
existing Argyle school will be demolished, and a new sports field will
be constructed in its place.
Parking
There are two parking concepts being considered:
Concept 1 includes two parking lots with a total of 165 spots. This meets District of North Vancouver requirements.
The
second concept would require a variance from the District of North
Vancouver. It includes fewer stall (110 total) and replaces what would
have been parking stalls in one area with increased outdoor recreation
space (sports courts of some kind).
Traffic Flow
There are two traffic flow concepts being considered:
The first concept is one way circulation through the main parking lot, entering off of Frederick Rd and exiting on Argyle Rd.
The second concept has the traffic from the main parking lot entering and exiting on Frederick Rd.
Sports Field
There are two concepts for the sports field being considered:
The
first concept is a proposal to construct a new artificial turf field,
which is being considered by the District of North Vancouver. This
concept would likely include lighting and perhaps public washrooms.
The second concept is an all weather gravel field. This concept does not include lighting or public washrooms.
Feedback
North
Vancouver School District is seeking feedback on these three aspects of
the project. We ask that you provide your input by December 5, 2016.
Feedback can be submitted to feedback@sd44.ca
Exterior Images
Here are some architectural renderings of the outside of the proposed project:
Layout
Here are some images of the layout within the building:
This is the layout of the main floor.
This is the layout of the second floor.
Interior Design
As
design work on the interior of the school moves forward and
architectural renderings of the inside become available, these will be
shared with staff, parents, students and the public. This will likely
take place in early spring 2017.
November 10, 2016
Public Information Meeting
Argyle Secondary School Replacement Project
The
North Vancouver School District is hosting a public information meeting
to present the development proposal to replace the current Argyle
Secondary School with a brand new school located on the same parcel of
land (1131 Frederick Rd, North Vancouver).
Meeting Time and Location:
Thursday, November 24, 2016
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Argyle Secondary School gymnasium
1131 Frederick Rd., North Vancouver
Meeting Agenda
6:30 p.m. – Doors Open
6:30 - 7:15 p.m. – Open House
7:15 - 8:30 p.m. – Presentation
Community feedback is being sought on several community-related aspects of the project
The Proposal
North
Vancouver School District proposes to replace the existing Argyle
Secondary School, located at 1131 Frederick Road. The new school is
being designed to accommodate 1200 students, with additional space for
up to 100 more students funded by the School District. The new school
will also be designed to support other community functions.
The
new Argyle Secondary School and associated parking will be constructed
on the existing grass and gravel play fields at the east end of the
property. Following completion of construction of the new school, the
existing Argyle school will be demolished, and a new sports field will
be constructed in its place.
A
proposal to construct a new artificial turf field is being considered by
the District of North Vancouver. A gravel replacement field will be
constructed if the turf option is not possible.
The
site will be accessed from a new driveway on Frederick Rd., with two
concepts being considered for site traffic egress. The Municipal Bylaw
requires 165 parking stalls be constructed on-site; however, the School
District may request a relaxation to the Bylaw and construct fewer
parking stalls in the interest of developing more green / sports /
community space.
Construction anticipated to commence in late Fall 2017.
June 9, 2016
Argyle Secondary replacement project approved
Argyle Secondary School staff join
Minister of Education Mike Bernier and MLA for North Vancouver-Seymour
Jane Thornthwaite to announce funding approval to build a brand new
Argyle Secondary.
Students at Argyle Secondary
school will have a brand new, seismically safe and state-of-the-art
school thanks to a partnership between the B.C. government and the North
Vancouver School District. Minister of Education Mike Bernier and MLA
for North Vancouver-Seymour Jane Thornthwaite announced the $45.7
million investment with school district staff, teachers, students and
parents at an event at Argyle Secondary on Tuesday, June 9, 2016.
"By
working together, we are able to move this important safety project
forward to protect and benefit students, teachers and staff in North
Vancouver. The new Argyle Secondary will serve students, families and
the community for generations to come" said Minister Bernier.
In
May 2012, the Ministry of Education approved a seismic upgrade project
for Argyle Secondary School. Since that time, as part of the Land,
Learning and Livability community consultation process, the North
Vancouver Board of Education has been working with the community, the
District of North Vancouver, and the Ministry of Education to change
this project from a seismic upgrade renovation to a brand new
replacement school for Argyle.
"We are very excited to be
able to provide our students, staff and community a brand new secondary
school, which will consist of a modern design that will support teaching
and learning methods for the future. The North Vancouver Board of
Education has worked hard for a long time to bring this project to
fruition and we are elated that it upholds our school district's vision
for student-centred learning in the 21st century," said Christie Sacré,
chairperson, North Vancouver Board of Education.
The
Province is contributing $37.6 million toward the project as part of its
award-winning Seismic Mitigation Program. The North Vancouver School
District is contributing an additional $8.1 million to fund a full
school replacement. Above and beyond this amount, the North Vancouver
School District is contributing an additional $3.3 million for a 1050
square-meter Neighbourhood Learning Centre component. This aspect of the
project will bring the total estimated project cost to $49.1 million
and will include amenities that can be utilized by the school and
community.
The North Vancouver Board of Education is able
to provide $11.4 million towards the replacement of Argyle Secondary
because of a lengthy consultation process whereby school district assets
were reviewed and surplus assets were sold to be utilized to fund the
remainder of the replacement project for Argyle.
"We are
very excited to be able to provide our students, staff and community a
new secondary school, which will consist of a modern design that will
support teaching and learning methods for the future," said Sacré.
The
new school will be designed to meet today's standards for safety,
accessibility and modern learning. It will encompass green building
standards and efficient technology, will involve plans for a new
artificial turf field, and will lower overall operations and building
life cycle costs. Other exciting aspects of this project include
enhanced multi-use performance space, improved gym facilities,
integration of technology throughout the school, improved drop-off areas
and parking, and environmental enhancements such as outdoor learning
spaces, gardens, rainwater drainage and creek enhancements.
Construction
is expected to start in 2017, with the new school slated to open in
September 2020. It will be built on the existing playing fields. Once
construction is complete, the students will move to the new school and
the existing buildings will be demolished and turned into new playing
fields.
"Argyle Secondary is a stalwart in this community
and I know that past, present and future Argylians support this project
as it could open new doors for community access that enrich the daily
lives and learning of students and community members alike," said
Elizabeth Bell, Principal at Argyle Secondary School.
Christie
Sacré, Chairperson of the North Vancouver Board of Education, speaks to
students, staff and parents at the announcement of the project to build
a new Argyle Secondary School.
February 24, 2016
Argyle Full Replacement Project Update
The North Vancouver School District continues to await confirmation from the Ministry of Education regarding the Board's request to proceed with the full replacement of Argyle Secondary School, rather than the approved seismic upgrade. Since the October 22, 2015 update, the key developments are provided below:
- Communication has contined with Ministry of Education staff, indicating that the replacement of Argyle School is at the highest priority of the Ministry
- The cost difference between the seismic upgrade ($37.8M) and a full replacement ($45.7) remains at an estimated cost of $7.9M
- The North Vancouver School District now has $11.38M in capital reserve, with these funds targeted towards the Argyle Replacement Project
- The Board has confirmed its intent to pursue the full preferred option that provides:
- Additional space for additional classroom capacity (+600 sq. m.)
- Area for multi-purpose/performing arts (+1000 sq. m.), and
- Recreation support space (+176 sq. m.)
- Killick, Metz, Bowen and Rose Architects and Planners (KMBR) facilitated a "Designs for Learning" workshop with staff to explore current options for the design of new schools to address the changing curriculum and approaches to learning
- The Board continues to pursue all options to secure the funding necessary for the full preferred replacement option. The Board has requested a meeting with the Ministry of Education and will arrange a meeting with the District of North Vancouver
- The Board will also consider the potential to raise additional funds through surplus lands, leases, and other methods.
The Board of Education looks forward to an invitation to enter into a Project Agreement at the earliest opportunity to move this 'long-awaited' replacement project forward.
As information becomes available on this project, updates will be posted.
A print copy of this information is available here.
October 22, 2015
Argyle Capital Project Update
Parents/guardians of students in the Argyle Family of Schools were invited to an Argyle Parent Advisory Council-sponsored event on October 21, 2015 at École Boundary Elementary School to learn more about the Argyle Capital Project. John Lewis, Superintendent of Schools, provided an overview of the history of the Argyle Capital Project; funding the "gap"; building and site enhancements; timelines; and the next steps. He outlined the actions that the Board of Education is taking to support and implement the Argyle Full Replacement Capital Project.
The slides from Superintendent Lewis' Argyle Capital Project Update are available here.
October 20, 2015
Argyle Full Replacement Project Update
The North Vancouver School District continues to make progress with its request for the full replacement of Argyle Secondary School. Since the update provided at the Argyle Parent Advisory Council Meeting on March 2, 2015, key developments are provided below:
- Constructive meetings and communications have continued with Ministry of Education staff through the spring and summer, including a site visit by Ministry staff in June 2015
- The Project Definition Report (PDR) for the replacement project was finalized after a number of updates to meet Ministry requirements and for presentation to the Ministry of Finance
- As a result of price escalation and clarification of project scope, the cost difference between the seismic upgrade ($37.8M) and the base full replacement ($45.7) is $7.9M. The preferred alternative options that incorporate additional space for the multi-purpose / performing arts areas (+1000 sq. m.) and additional classroom capacity and recreation support space (+766 sq. m.) have increased in cost to approximately $10.7M and $13.7M respectively. The total cost of the preferred Argyle option is $51.5M ($37.8M Ministry + $13.7M NVSD)
- The North Vancouver School District has now sold the Keith Lynn site ($5M) and Monteray site ($6.38M), with proceeds targeted towards the Argyle replacement project. A conditional sale of a surplus parcel of land at the Braemar site ($2.4M) is proceeding through the municipal process. Together, the proceeds from these three properties will achieve the financing needed for the preferred replacement option at Argyle
- A conditional sale of the Ridgeway Annex site ($5.1M) is at fourth and final reading with the Council of the City of North Vancouver. This will allow the sale to be completed in November, with proceeds applied to the remaining debt associated with the replacements of Sutherland Secondary and Westview Elementary Schools
- Expressions of Interest were issued in May for architectural and consultant services, followed by a Request for Proposals. Killick, Metz, Bowen and Rose Architects and Planners (KMBR) were selected as the lead consultants for the Argyle project. KMBR have extensive experience in the design and construction of schools in BC, with North Vancouver School District experience including the Sutherland Secondary School replacement project
- During the summer 2015, advance project work was completed including: geotechnical investigation, site survey, arborist assessment, hazardous materials assessment, and non-structural seismic assessment of the existing building
- Meetings were held with the District of North Vancouver (DNV) Planning Department to identify project requirements for both the seismic and full replacement options. DNV staff provided detailed information related to building department reviews, code compliance, local improvements, and expectations related to the ‘daylighting’ of Kilmer Creek for flood mitigation purposes
- The project request is considered by the Province of BC's Treasury Board as a “Major Capital Project’ for review by Treasury, Finance, and the Capital Branch to determine the outcome of the Board's request to advance to a Project Agreement before the end of the calendar year.
The Board of Education looks forward to an invitation to enter into a Project Agreement before the end of the 2015 calendar year.
As information becomes available on this long-awaited project, updates will be posted.
A print copy of this information is available here.
June 15, 2015
The North Vancouver School District is continuing to work with the Ministry of Education's Capital Planning Branch to advance the request for a Full Replacement Project. In consultation with the Ministry, the School District is able to proceed with some preliminary work, at its own risk, in advance of a Project Agreement being in place. As the Project Agreement may not be finalized until September 2015, the School District has identified a limited scope of work that may be completed during the summer months. This advance work would focus on a due diligence engineering review of the site.
The Project Definition Report associated with the Seismic Project and the Replacement Project request is currently under review by the Capital Branch. The School District will be meeting with the Capital Branch staff before the end of June to discuss the report and identify any further requirements to establish the capital budget figures for both the seismic upgrade and the replacement school options.
The Expression of Interest process for Argyle School resulted in an invitation to participate in a Request for Proposal process to a short-list of highly qualified candidate firms. The Request for Proposal process will facilitate the selection of a project architect by the end of June or early July 2015, in advance of a Project Agreement being in place.
June 11, 2015
Learn more about the sale of the former Monteray School site - Proceeds to be directed to the Argyle Secondary School Replacement Project
March 3, 2015
Argyle Capital Project Update
Parents/guardians of students in the Argyle Family of Schools were invited to an Argyle Parent Advisory Council-sponsored event on March 2, 2015 to learn more about the Argyle Capital Project. John Lewis, Superintendent of Schools, provided an overview of the history of the Argyle Capital Project; funding the "gap"; building and site enhancements; and the next steps. He outlined the actions that the Board of Education will take and how the community can lend its support to an Argyle Replacement Capital Project.
The slides from Superintendent Lewis' Argyle Capital Project Update are available here.
January 27, 2015
On behalf of the Board of Education, Chair Barry Forward sent a follow-up letter to Education Minister Peter Fassbender regarding the Board's request to meet with the Minister and Ministry staff to discuss the conversion of the Argyle Secondary School seismic project to a full-replacement school.
September 9, 2014
On behalf of the Board of Education, Chair Franci Stratton sent a letter of request to Education Minister Peter Fassbender to meet with him and Ministry staff to address any remaining concerns related to the Argyle Secondary School Replacement Project.
The Board of Education and the Mayor and Council of the District of North Vancouver indicated that they would be pleased to meet with the Minister and appropriate Ministry staff to address any remaining concerns to enable this project to move forward at the earliest opportunity.
