FORT MCMURRAY (MyMcMurray) – After several delays, construction has now wrapped up on the Willow Square Continuing Care Centre in Fort McMurray.
In January of last year, the project was almost complete. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to some delays and then the flooding in April caused damage to the underground parking.
When the continuing care centre will open now lies in the hands of Alberta Health Services but is expected later this year. In the meantime, the province says AHS is undertaking a thorough cleaning of the facility, installing and testing medical equipment and furniture, stocking necessary supplies, and preparing programs/services for when residents are able to move in.
According to the province, the $102-million facility came in under budget. It will have 108 beds upon opening and has space for 36 additional beds to meet future needs.
Prasad Panda, Minister of Infrastructure, said the Willow Square facility is the most advanced continuing care centre in Alberta and addresses a longtime need in the Fort McMurray region.
“This project kept over 570 Albertans working in well-paid jobs and was an integral part in re-energizing our economy and Alberta’s Recovery Plan,” he said.
Health Minister Tyler Shandro said it’s an exciting project that is part of the government’s work to provide more continuing care spaces across the province.
“Government is committed to improving access to continuing care with innovative, quality projects like Willow Square, providing homes and health services to Albertans where they are needed most,” Shandro said.
AHS President and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu said the demand for continuing care in Alberta continues to grow as the province’s population increases.
