Construction is beginning at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) to improve landscaping, walkways and connections between buildings and to make the campus more accessible and walkable.
“BCIT is more than a campus, it’s a place where students build skills, friendships and a sense of community,” said Anne Kang, MLA for Burnaby Centre. “These improvements will create better spaces for people to gather, connect and make the most of their time in Burnaby.”
The project is part of a broader program to modernize infrastructure at BCIT’s Burnaby campus by upgrading underground systems, including electrical, gas, water, sanitary and stormwater infrastructure. The project will also improve public spaces in the campus, supporting more reliable, efficient and sustainable campus operations.
Upgrading campus infrastructure
The upgraded Student Commons will support student life by creating flexible spaces for studying, socializing, events and informal connection, helping students build community and supporting their well-being.
“The South Campus Infrastructure Renewal project is an important investment in the future of BCIT and in the student experience,” said Jeff Zabudsky, president, BCIT. “Renewing the infrastructure beneath our campus allows us to reimagine the spaces above it, creating a more accessible and sustainable place to learn and teach. We’re grateful to the Province of British Columbia for helping us lay the foundation for the next generation of BCIT students who are critical to our province’s economic growth.”
Upgrades include:
- modernized, climate-resilient infrastructure
- more open spaces
- a restored urban greenway
- a campus walkway connecting the new Tall Timber Student Housing building to the core of campus
- upgraded wayfinding, bicycle networks and accessibility throughout public areas
The project is expected to be complete by early 2029.
Investing in post-secondary institutions
The Province is providing $48 million for the South Campus Infrastructure Renewal project. The project is in addition to other recent provincial investments at the BCIT Burnaby campus, including the Trades and Technology Complex under construction and the Tall Timber Student Housing residence, which opened in August 2025. Since 2017, the Province has invested $751 million in capital projects and infrastructure at BCIT.
“Upgrading core infrastructure today sets the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable campus tomorrow,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care and Acting Minister of Infrastructure. “This investment ensures BCIT students have welcoming and accessible spaces to learn and build community, supporting students’ success for years to come.”
Since 2017, the Province has committed more than $4 billion in post-secondary education infrastructure:
- nearly $2 billion for student housing, creating more than 7,600 new student beds that are complete and thousands more underway
- more than $2 billion for other post-secondary campus infrastructure, including new campuses and specialty buildings
As the province grows, government remains committed to working with post-secondary institutions to support a skilled, future-ready workforce and economy.
Quote:
Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills –
“The BCIT South Campus Infrastructure Renewal project in Burnaby will improve student learning, training and opportunities to connect and build community. These upgrades will support safer, more welcoming and accessible learning environments where students can learn, connect and thrive.”
(A version of this press release was first published by the Government of Canada on August 28, 2026).