A new long-term care facility is moving forward in Cranbrook, aiming to double capacity and ease pressure on the local health system.
Interior Health and the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District held a groundbreaking celebration Thursday, Sept. 11, at the future site of the facility on 4th Street South.
Celebration of new long-term care centre in Cranbrook.
Update: The $232-million project will replace the 60-bed Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home with a new 148-bed, four-storey care community.
Construction is expected to begin before the winter of 2025.
Phase 1 will reportedly open in 2027, relocating current residents, with Phase 2 is scheduled to be complete in 2029 to add 88 more beds.
The celebration included remarks from Interior Health, local politicians, health care providers, and representatives from the ʔaq̓am and other Ktunaxa Nation communities, who were recognized for their guidance and input in the project’s design.
“I wanted to say thank you… your presence and blessing of this land helps us to begin this construction of this project in a good way.” said Interior Health CEO Sylvia Weir.
“Their knowledge has shaped the cultural and physical space we are building.”
The care home will follow a “household” model, where residents live in smaller groups with private rooms and shared living spaces.
Amenities will reportedly include a sacred space, hair salon, activity rooms, outdoor access, a 25-space adult day program, and a 37-space childcare centre.
David Wilks, chair of the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District, said the new space will help address demand for long-term care and free up hospital beds for acute care patients.
According to officials, The hospital district is contributing $63 million toward the cost.
The project is part of a broader provincial investment in seniors’ care, which includes home health, assisted living, and expansion of long-term care in rural areas.
Comments