Ontario Construction News staff writer
BARRIE – Project partners and local officials broke ground on a major redevelopment of IOOF Seniors Homes Inc. on Brooks Street, a project that will expand the long-term care home to 226 beds by early 2029.
Gillam Group is serving as construction manager for the two-phase project, which was designed by Salter Pilon Architecture Inc. The redevelopment includes renovations to the existing building and a new addition, delivering 64 new long-term care beds and upgrading 66 existing beds to create a 226-bed home.
The not-for-profit IOOF Seniors Homes said the project represents the largest capital initiative in its history and aligns with its “Resident First” philosophy of care. The revitalization aims to address increasing demand for long-term care and the sustainability challenges posed by an aging population.
When complete, the expanded structure at 10 Brooks St. will feature redesigned two-storey resident home areas in a new 47,366-sq. ft. south wing and revitalized resident spaces within the existing three-storey, 40,935-sq. ft. centre wing.
The upgraded home will include private rooms with private bathrooms, as well as select semi-private bathrooms, to enhance infection control and resident privacy. Plans also call for modernized heating and air conditioning systems, new furniture, beds and mattresses in every resident room, updated equipment, and an enclosed private garden courtyard.
IOOF, as a not-for-profit long-term care provider, is eligible for capital construction funding from the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care to help offset project costs. The organization has submitted construction drawings to the ministry for approval and is aiming to begin major construction work this year.
To date, IOOF has raised more than $6 million toward the project and is working toward an $8-million goal through a combination of community donations and operational revenue.
Project partners said the redevelopment will better equip the home to manage increasing acuity and complexity of care, with modern spaces designed to enhance the experience of residents and their families for generations to come.
