The construction of the Willow Square Continuing Care Centre in Fort McMurray is complete and Alberta Health Services has started to outfit the facility with medical equipment and supplies.
When opened later this year, this new $102-million state-of-the-art continuing care centre will have 108 beds with additional shelled space for 36 more beds to meet future needs. The project was completed under budget, despite challenges such as a major forest fire, flood and pandemic.
“We have completed construction of the most advanced continuing care centre in Alberta, addressing a longtime need in Fort McMurray and area,” said Prasad Panda, Alberta’s Minister of Infrastructure. “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.”
Alberta Health Services has started operational commissioning, which includes:
- a thorough final cleaning
- installation and testing of medical equipment and furniture
- stocking the entire facility with necessary supplies
- preparing for the arrival of new residents and the delivery of programs and services
“As Alberta’s population continues to increase and age, so does the demand for continuing care. This new facility will allow Wood Buffalo residents who require supportive living care to remain within their community and close to their family and friends,” said Dr. Verna Yiu, president and CEO, Alberta Health Services. “This modern continuing care centre will help meet the current and future community needs.”
The official opening date of the Willow Square Continuing Care Centre is an Alberta Health Services decision.
