The Cypress Health Region is continuing planning and design work on the previously announced capital construction project in Leader. The project remains a top priority of the Cypress Health Region.

“We have experienced some unfortunate delays due to construction costs that came in higher than expected, however we want to reaffirm our commitment to this important project,” commented Brenda Schwan, Vice President – Continuing Care and Capital Project Lead for Cypress Health. “We are working very hard to ensure that this project can be delivered within the available capital budget and are looking forward to integrating all of Leader’s health services into a comprehensive facility.”

Since an announcement in January that the initial call for tenders was cancelled due to higher than anticipated construction costs, health region staff have been working collaboratively with project partners and stakeholders to create a revised design. This work includes extensive consultations with the project’s architectural partner, aodbt architecture + interior design, to identify potential revisions that will reduce the overall cost while not affecting the provision of health programs and services.

“The design revisions that are being completed still incorporate the valuable feedback that we received from staff, physicians, community members, municipal stakeholders, patient representatives, and others. The revisions have also factored in how construction can be completed in a more cost effective way. We are confident that we can finalize a revised design that fits within the project’s budget,” added Schwan.

The health region is currently working to complete a new submission to the Ministry of Health that includes drawings, specifications, and updated budget figures. Following that the finalized drawings will be submitted to allow for a new tender to be issued. It is anticipated that the updated design could be ready for tendering in the coming months.

The Leader capital project includes the addition of acute care, emergency medical services, and a universal care unit to the existing Western Senior Citizens Home. The $12 million project will result in a continuum of health services within one integrated facility.

To read more information on the project please visit the Building Excellence in Rural Health – Leader webpage.