Dozens of new child-care spaces are coming to the Lake Charlotte area of HRM.

The province says they are spending $1.9 million for a new centre that will provide 72 spots.

It will be operated by the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth.

The project is the 12th announced through the Education Department’s infrastructure program funded through the Canada-Nova Scotia Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.

“We know that access to quality, affordable child care is essential for families,” said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Kent Smith, MLA for Eastern Shore, on behalf of Brendan Maguire, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

“It supports parents in the workforce, strengthens our communities and gives children the best possible start in life. That’s why we’re committed to expanding access to child-care options close to home.”

Since 2001, nearly 7,000 new child-care spaces have been created across the province.

The new space will be on Highway 7 between Clam Harbour Road and Combac Drive, expected to open in March.