Citadel High Progress Monitored by Webcam

For the first time, the world will be able to go online to monitor the progress of a Nova Scotia government construction project.

The Department of Transportation and Public Works has a webcam on the CBC building on Bell Road that allows everyone to follow construction of Citadel High School on Trollope Street in Halifax. The camera view is available on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/tran/ .

"Because the Citadel High project is such an intriguing one, there is significant public interest in its progress," said Terry Smith-Lamothe, project leader for Transportation and Public Works. "With the support of the CBC, which has provided the use of its tower and allowed us to hook up a modem line in its communication room, everyone will be able see how we're doing."

The province is seeking recognition from an environmental rating system that emphasizes sensible land-use, energy efficiency, and comfort. Project leaders are seeking silver certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Examples of project-certified elements are the cafeteria's field-sod roof, rainwater collection to flush toilets, extensive construction materials with recycled content, low-e glazing and a reflective, white roof membrane.

The building's unique appearance, created by Halifax firm Fowler Bauld and Mitchell Architects, won a design competition. It is being built by Pomerleau Construction, Ltd.

The webcam is expected to operate for about four months, until the building is enclosed.

Scheduled to open in September 2007, the school will replace St. Patrick's and Queen Elizabeth high schools, which date back to 1955 and 1942, respectively. The new school has a projected enrolment of 1,200 students and has an estimated cost of $24.9 million.