McGill’s $870-million New Vic expansion project will continue, at least for the time, as the university grapples with provincial budget cuts.

The project involves the redevelopment of part of the former Royal Victoria Hospital, a heritage site which is located on the downtown campus of Canada’s oldest university.

The new complex, immediately north of the current downtown campus, will house a research and teaching facility for sustainability systems and public policy programs. Spaces will include a library, support staff offices and an event centre.

If all goes according to plan, the New Vic will add 247,500 square feet to McGill’s downtown footprint.

“The New Vic is a top priority project for McGill and it will continue,” Michel Proulx, a McGill spokesman told the Montreal Gazette. “We are not suspending it in any way for now.”

McGill has voiced plans cut construction and renovation spending by about 50% in wake of the Quebec government’s cuts. The university has spent about $130 million annually on construction and refurbishment in recent years, the Gazette reported.

“It’s too early to say which projects will be affected by the funding cuts,” Proulx said.

The New Vic project is well underway and slated to be complete in 2028. But several other McGill development projects face an uncertain future as McGill attempts to secure financing for them.

“We anticipate having to re-examine, and possibly cancel, many projects, with a view to prioritize those that are critical to maintaining the health and safety of our community and the continuity of university activities,” said Proulx.

Photo: McGill University