While plans for a downtown Ryerson University campus are on hold indefinitely after provincial funding was pulled last year, the City of Brampton is partnering with another institution of higher learning to expand local post-secondary education options.

At its Aug. 7 meeting, council voted to endorse in principle a grant or “other form(s) of financial assistance” of up to $7.3 million over three years to help Algoma expand its Brampton campus from 500 to 1,000 students by 2023.

According to a presentation to council by Algoma representatives, the estimated cost of the expansion will be $34,390,000 over the next three years, with the university contributing $27,090,000. In its sales pitch to council, Algoma emphasized economic growth and the potential return on investment for the city.

“In essence, (the city’s) investment of $7.3 million and the university’s investment of $27 million will actually see a return. So, for every dollar that is spent on developing phase two, the city of Brampton will realize 10 additional dollars contributing back to the economy of city. And that would start immediately,” said Algoma president and vice chancellor Asima Vezina.

The expansion will see the university, which has its main campus in Sault Ste. Marie, grow its Brampton footprint from 13,350 square feet to 24,000 square feet and add six new academic programs.

In addition to current programming at its Brampton campus, the university said the partnership with the city will allow it to offer programs, degrees and certificates in computer science, psychology, and community economics and social development by 2020, while adding social work, law and justice, and environmental studies by 2023.

Vezina told council the university estimates its expansion will generate $165.6 million in new economic activities by 2028 and will create 273 direct and indirect local jobs including faculty positions.

“Wonderful. Music to my ears,” said Mayor Patrick Brown.

Graeme Frisque is a reporter for Mississauga News and Brampton Guardian. Reach him via email: gfrisque@metroland.com

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