Interior Health has chosen a pair of contractors for a major rebuild and replacement of Cranbrook’s F.W. Green Memorial Home.
Interior Health officials said Zeidler Architecture will do architectural and engineering while Bird Construction will manage the building process.
“Long-term care facilities are a place for seniors and others to not only receive care but also call home,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.
“That’s why we’re working to expand long-term care homes and access throughout the province, including the Cranbrook area. This is an important step in securing a future for those who live in long-term care facilities to continue receiving quality care that they need, near their loved ones, in a building that is designed to meet their needs.”
Interior Health (IH) said the project will completely rebuild the site and expand the capacity from 60 long-term care beds to 148.
“With the replacement and expansion of Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home, we will have a new, modern care community for our staff and seniors,” said Sylvia Weir, Interior Health Corporate Services Chief Financial Officer and Vice President.
“Awarding these contracts is an important step in this project that will be increasing access to the range of services seniors in the East Kootenay need.”
The new building will give each resident a one-bed room with a dedicated washroom in a household unit for 12 to 18 residents.
IH said each household will feature a communal dining and living space to provide a welcoming atmosphere.
“We are taking the critical step to expand the number of long-term care beds and provide people in the region with better access to the help they need,” said Harwinder Sandhu, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services.
“The replacement and expansion project in the Cranbrook region will ensure people, especially seniors can receive the care they need as they age, close to their loved ones and community.”
The project will be completed in two phases, with construction expected to start next spring.
IH said Phase 1 should be open by 2027 and the project could be completely finished and operational by 2029.
Officials said the phased construction process will limit any disruptions to staff and residents.
“We recognize the significant impact this project will make in the lives of seniors in our region and are excited to see the construction of this long-awaited facility one step closer to reality with the awarding of these contracts,” said Kootenay East Regional Hospital District chair David Wilks.
IH said the F.W. Green home rebuild will cost about $156.5 million, with funding coming from the B.C. government, Interior Health and the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District.
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