The Ford government announced today they’ll spend $500 million this year, as part of their $12 billion investment in school infrastructure over the next decade.

The $500 million will go to 45 new projects, including 30 brand new schools and 15 permanent additions or upgrades to existing schools.

Hamilton accounts for two of the approved projects, including replacing the existing St. James the Apostle Catholic elementary school in Stoney Creek, and building a new school in Binbrook that will have 615 student spaces.

The proposed new elementary school is located at Binbrook road and Fletcher road.

In addition to student spaces, the Ford government announced plans to increase child care. 30,000 childcare spaces including 10,000 spaces in new schools over the next 5 years.

Education Minister Stephen Lecce says he’ll be announcing a return to school plan next week, six weeks before students are due to go back to class.