Construction of the Atlantic Science Enterprise Centre (ASEC) in Moncton is underway which will house 700 federal civil servants from four agencies (Fisheries and Oceans, Environment and Climate Change, Canadian Food Inspection Agency and National Research Council) under one roof.
The project was first announced in April 2021 and at that time the cost was pegged at $700 million.
RELATED: Feds To Create $700M Science Centre In Moncton
Federal cabinet minister and Beausejour MP Dominic LeBlanc was on hand for the official groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday.
“During the construction phase, (the project) will provide great jobs, as well as training and development opportunities for workers in the skilled trades, and the construction industry,” noted LeBlanc.
“This facility will enable Canada’s greatest scientists and young graduates to pursue their research in a world-class scientific research environment.”
The complex is being built in three phases over seven years as an extension of the existing Gulf Fisheries Centre on Université Avenue (across from the Dumont).
The first phase involves site preparation work and construction of the new science wing will start next year.
The final phase, scheduled in 2027, will see scientists moving into the newly built science wing, while the redevelopment of the existing Gulf Fisheries Centre and construction of the remainder of the centre begins.
This step will include carefully rebuilding the façade to commemorate the history of the original building.
When it is fully occupied in 2031, the centre will be equipped with modern laboratory spaces and technology tailored to scientists’ needs, as well as offices and work spaces for over 700 employees from four federal organizations.
The Canadian Space Agency will participate in ASEC as a virtual partner.
