The Defense Ministry announced Wednesday it has completed fortifying schools and kindergartens in rocket-weary communities adjacent to the Israel-Gaza Strip border, at a cost of tens of millions of shekels. The Defense Ministry said that it now plans to invest another 20 million shekels ($5.6 million) into fortifying dozens of classrooms and public institutions in Ashkelon and the communities comprising the Shaar Hanegev Regional Council. The work will include the reinforcing buildings' facades, replacing existing windows with safety glass and additional modifications that will make the buildings more suitable for children. Over the past few months, the Engineering and Construction Division at the Defense Ministry has fortified dozens of buildings in the southern district, including 40 institutional shelters and secure rooms in 14 buildings in Ashkelon and the Sdot Negev, Lachish, Merchavim, Hof Ashkelon and Shaar Hanegev regional councils. Overall, the work encompassed 3,000 square meters (some 32,300 square feet), the ministry said.
