People living in Chilliwack will soon benefit from enhanced long-term care as Fraser Health prepares to build a new 200-bed care home near Chilliwack General Hospital.

“The redevelopment of the Bradley Centre, which will add 110 new beds and replace 90 existing beds, demonstrates our government’s commitment to improving care for seniors in B.C.,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “By investing in building more long-term care homes and improving the quality of existing facilities, we’re securing a future where older adults can age with dignity in their community.” 

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.

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.

Long-term care homes provide care for people with complex-care needs who can no longer live safely and independently at home, and who require 24-hour supervision for a range of services delivered by well-trained and caring staff.

To meet growing demand over the past five years, government has invested approximately $2 billion to expand and improve quality care for seniors in British Columbia, including investments in primary care, home health, long-term care and assisted living.

A backgrounder follows.