Guests were given a chance to leave their mark, as Fanshawe College announced that its downtown development project is on track to welcome students by fall 2018.
On Friday afternoon, Fanshawe provided an update on the downtown development project during an event at the former Kingsmill's building on Dundas St., which is being converted into the new Centre for Digital and Performance Arts.
"At this point of our construction we've just removed the crane, which means we're now going to focus on the inside of the building," said Fanshawe Chief Infrastructure Officer Peter Gilbert. "There's a few components left on the outside -- some glass to install and some of the outer features -- but the work really starts on the inside once the building is enclosed."
Distinguished guests hammer a nail into a wooden joist that will be used in the construction of Fanshawe College's downtown development project at the former Kingsmill's building, June 9, 2017. (Photo by Miranda Chant)
Mayor Matt Brown, Fanshawe College President Peter Devlin, MP Peter Fragiskatos and MPP Deb Matthews were among a number of guests who attended the college's event who were invited to hammer a nail into a wooden joist that will be used during the facility's construction. As well, guests were given a chance to sign another wooden joist, which will also be signed by Fanshawe students before being used in the construction project.
Thomas Kingsmill, who ran the Kingsmill's department store for many years, was also a distinguished guest at the event. He said he's thrilled that the building is getting a second lease on life.
"[It's] fabulous, and I'm just so glad that the site accommodated it without having to expand," he said. "I'm just so pleased to see this enthusiastic crowd and the support that it has generated."
Once completed, the former Kingsmill’s building will be turned into a dynamic learning centre for tourism, hospitality and IT programs, with modern labs, bright and open classrooms, and collaborative learning spaces for 1,600 students. The building will also include a restaurant, which will be open to the public.
Fanshawe College President Peter Devlin signs his name on a wooden joist that will be used in the construction of Fanshawe College's downtown development project at the former Kingsmill's building, June 9, 2017. (Photo by Miranda Chant)
"The building has been designed so we can open the doors right out onto the street for the good weather. So we really look forward to having a restaurant that will be fully used all year round," said Gilbert.
Gilbert said the entire cost of the project, including all interior equipment, will be around $66.2-million, which is the single-largest capital investment Fanshawe has ever undertaken. He says the project remains within budget.
The city has already kicked in $19-million, while MainStreet London and the London Downtown Business Association Board offered up $1-million.
Fanshawe's Centre for Digital and Performance Arts is expected to be completed and open it's doors to students by September of 2018.
-With files from Miranda Chant
