Construction of a 420 square metre (4,500 square feet) emergency department expansion has reached a significant milestone with the concrete pour for the project’s foundation footings completed.
Concrete for the foundation walls is scheduled to be poured September 13.
“It is exciting to know that these construction milestones are taking place, with this emergency department expansion project now well underway,” says Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “It is a testament to the hard work of the Lady Minto Hospital Foundation, its funding partners, and the Salt Spring Island community.”
Site preparation and parking reconfiguration work is complete and excavation for the expanded emergency department is now underway.
“The spirit and generosity shown by the community in support of this project is truly inspiring,” said Leah Hollins, Board Chair, Island Health. “Island Health is pleased to contribute $1 million to this project to ensure it fulfills the vision of all involved. We are also thankful to the CRHD for their continued support.”
Cost is shared between the CRHD, the Lady Minto Hospital Foundation and Island Health.
Island Health is funding the operating cost of the expanded emergency department, which will include new treatment rooms/bays, a medication area, dedicated check-in desk, accessible washrooms, and an expanded patient and family waiting area.
“The upgrade to the emergency department will allow the Lady Minto Hospital to continue to provide great care to Salt Spring and Gulf Islanders,” said Denise Blackwell, Chair of the Capital Regional Hospital District.
“This project is clearly valued by the community and we are pleased to contribute $3.7 million and to be able to work with Island Health, Lady Minto Hospital Foundation, and community donors to ensure it achieves its goals.”
“The people of Salt Spring Island have passionately shown their support for Lady Minto Hospital and this project, with their contributions totalling more than $7.5 million,” said Dave Taylor, Board Chair, Lady Minto Hospital Foundation. “The board and staff wish to express our deep gratitude to Island Health, the CRHD, and all of our donors for their support to make this project a reality.”
The expansion project is expected to be completed by fall 2023.
About Island Health:
Island Health provides health care and support services to more than 860,000 people on Vancouver Island, the islands in the Salish Sea and the Johnstone Strait, and mainland communities north of Powell River. With more than 27,000 staff and over 2,900 physician partners, 1,000 volunteers, and the dedicated support of foundations and auxiliaries, Island Health delivers a broad range of health services, including: public health services, primary health care, home and community care, mental health and addictions services, acute care in hospitals, and much more across a huge, geographically diverse region.
About Lady Minto Hospital Foundation:
The Lady Minto Hospital Foundation is a registered charity dedicated to raising funds which enhance services and facilities of Lady Minto Hospital on Salt Spring Island.
About Capital Regional Hospital District:
A corporation of the CRD, the Capital Regional Hospital District partners with Island Health and community stakeholder agencies to develop and improve healthcare facilities in the region, including replacing buildings that have reached the end of their economic and functional life. Through capital and other community investments, the CRHD supports a healthy, vibrant and livable region for all citizens.
Island Health media inquiries:
Andrew Leyne
250-370-8908
Andrew.Leyne@islandhealth.ca
Lady Minto Hospital Foundation media inquiries:
Roberta Martell
250-538-4845
Roberta.Martell@ladymintofoundation.com