CHILLIWACK – Fraser Health is preparing to build a new 200-bed care home near Chilliwack General Hospital.
Fraser Health will construct a five-storey long-term care home at the 9000 block of Mary Street. The building will replace the 90-bed Bradley Centre, which opened in 1973 at Chilliwack General Hospital.
The new long-term care home will be designed as households, each accommodating 12 to 13 residents, with every resident having a private single-bed room and bathroom. It will include social and recreational spaces typical of a home, such as living rooms, dining rooms, activity areas and access to outdoor spaces.
“Providing additional long-term care beds in Chilliwack has been a top priority of the FVRHD for many years. It is inspiring to see a project that will benefit so many move forward. This project also shows the necessity of valuable partnerships with Fraser Health and the Province,” said Sylvia Pranger, chair, Fraser Valley Regional Hospital District (FVRHD).
This innovative care-home model incorporates lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring designs that enhance infection control. It will serve a diverse population, embed a culturally sensitive approach and design, and will include community spaces and services for residents, families, visitors and staff, such as art and activity rooms, a hair salon and a sacred space.
The long-term care home will also house a 32-space adult day program designed to support older adults living independently at home. This program will provide social connection, engaging activities, exercise and health checks for seniors facing health challenges, ensuring they can maintain their independence, while receiving essential services to support their health and well-being.
The capital cost of the project will be shared between the Province and Fraser Vallery Regional Hospital District, and is estimated to be $274 million. The care home will be built, owned and operated by Fraser Health. Government approved the business plan in July 2024. The project will move into the procurement phase, with construction expected to commence in 2026 and complete in 2029.
Source: Province of BC News & Business Examiner Staff
