Ontario Construction News staff writer
BARRIE – Project partners and local officials celebrated the groundbreaking of a significant redevelopment at IOOF Seniors Homes Inc. on Brooks Street, which aims to increase the long-term care home’s capacity to 226 beds by early 2029.
The Gillam Group is acting as construction manager for this two-phase project, designed by Salter Pilon Architecture Inc. The plan includes renovations to the current building along with a new addition that will bring in 64 new long-term care beds while upgrading 66 existing ones, creating a total of 226 beds.
The not-for-profit IOOF Seniors Homes stated that this initiative marks its largest capital project ever and fits perfectly with its “Resident First” approach to care. This redevelopment seeks to meet the rising demand for long-term care services amid challenges linked to an aging population.
Once finished, the enhanced facility at 10 Brooks St. will boast redesigned two-storey living areas in a new south wing measuring 47,366 sq. ft., alongside refreshed resident spaces within the existing three-storey center wing of 40,935 sq. ft.
The improved home will offer private rooms with bathrooms as well as some semi-private options, all aimed at boosting infection control and ensuring resident privacy. Plans also include modern heating and air conditioning systems, new furnishings, beds and mattresses in each room, updated equipment, and an enclosed private garden courtyard.
As a not-for-profit provider of long-term care, IOOF is eligible for funding from the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care to help cover construction costs. The organization has already submitted construction plans for ministry approval and hopes to kick off major work this year.
So far, IOOF has raised over $6 million towards this project and is working towards an $8-million target through various community donations and operational revenue.
Project partners mentioned that this redevelopment will better position the home to handle growing levels of care needs while providing modern environments designed to improve experiences for residents and their families for many years ahead.
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So far, IOOF has raised over $6 million towards this project and is working towards an $8-million target through various community donations and operational revenue.
Project partners mentioned that this redevelopment will better position the home to handle growing levels of care needs while providing modern environments designed to improve experiences for residents and their families for many years ahead.
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