Building Smarter: Innovative Construction at Abbotsford Middle School

As part of a provincial pilot led by the Ministry of Infrastructure, the recently completed two-storey expansion at Abbotsford Middle School used innovative construction methods to add eight classrooms and 200 new student seats. 

The $12 million project demonstrated how capital investments can be delivered more efficiently through alternative construction approaches. The expansion used exterior prefabricated concrete wall panels manufactured off-site and installed directly onto the building foundation. 

The panels were lifted into place by crane and welded to a steel frame, creating a strong and durable structure. Installation of the exterior walls was completed in just two days, allowing the project to progress from start to near completion in approximately nine and one-half months. 

This construction approach improves quality control, shortens timelines, and minimizes disruption within an active school environment. It demonstrates how provincial infrastructure investments can support the timely delivery of school capacity while responding to enrolment growth and long-term facility needs. 

Beyond classrooms, the expansion included new corridors, lockers, and upgraded HVAC systems. 

In addition to the Abbotsford Middle School expansion, the district recently completed two other ministry-funded capital expansions that added 360 new student seats at Auguston Traditional and Margaret Stenersen elementary schools. These expansions also enabled the delivery of 226 new licensed childcare spaces, supporting families and strengthening community access to early learning.