$155 million in renovations underway at Horizon’s Saint John Regional Hospital

SAINT JOHN – (GNB) Construction work has begun on the first stage of a $155-million multi-year project to modernize and expand Horizon’s Saint John Regional Hospital.

The multi-phase project will enhance care delivery by modernizing and expanding the hospital.

“This project supports our government’s efforts to improve the health-care system,” said Health Minister Bruce Fitch. “This investment will help the Saint John Regional Hospital continue to provide necessary care to patients as we work to ensure access to primary health care and to surgery for all New Brunswickers through the provincial health plan, Stabilizing Health Care: An Urgent Call to Action.”

A two-storey addition will be built on the south side of the existing building along University Avenue. The project, which will add about 8,100 sq. meters (90,000 sq. feet) to the building, is expected to take seven years.

“This is a strategic and important health-care project,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Jeff Carr. “Our government is committed to making the necessary investments to maintain and improve our existing infrastructure.”

The addition will house a new ambulatory procedure unit for endoscopy and minor procedures; oncology services including systemic therapy, supportive care and clinics; and a medical/surgical intensive care unit.

The project will also incorporate significant changes and modernization to the surgical program to help improve workflow, for the benefit of patients and staff.

“We understand the importance of our health-care system to New Brunswickers and are undergoing significant infrastructure enhancements at three regional hospitals to improve patient care and modernize our space and equipment to retain and recruit health-care staff,” said Margaret Melanson, interim CEO and president of Horizon. “I am pleased to share the first of many milestones for the Saint John Regional Hospital, bringing us closer to our ultimate goal of improving the health-care experience for our patients, clients and staff.”

Phase one

The first phase of the project involves ground and road work on the south side of the building, preparing the site for the addition. This work will include expanding and reconfiguring the existing staff parking lots, as well as upgrades and the relocation of water, electrical and sewage lines.

The initial site work will involve the use of explosives to aid in clearing rock on the west side of the hospital. There will be no disruption to patient care or services.