Construction is beginning on a new and expanded long-term care facility in Cranbrook. 

When complete, the new Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home will more than double the number of long-term beds at the home to help meet the growing needs of seniors in the region.

“This project is about supporting people – creating good local jobs today and ensuring seniors in Cranbrook have access to the care they need close to home,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “By expanding long-term care and strengthening partnerships with local communities, we’re investing in a healthier, more connected future for everyone.”

The new five-storey home at 1700 4 St. S. will replace the existing 70-year-old Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home. The number of long-term care beds will increase from 60 to 150, and will include three hospice beds.

The new design will offer a home-like environment where seniors can live with dignity and families can feel confident their loved ones are supported.

Construction will take place in two phases. In Phase 1, space for the first 66 new beds will be built. Phase 1 is expected to open in 2027, allowing current residents to move into the new home. Phase 2, which will include an additional 84 beds, is scheduled for completion in 2030.  Phase 2 will include space for a child care facility, creating a vibrant, multi-generational hub for the community.

“Replacing the care home in Cranbrook and more than doubling the space for people who need care is wonderful news for the community,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “The new and modernized Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home will provide seniors with greater privacy, more supports and enhanced amenities that meet today’s standards of care. With welcoming community spaces and comfortable areas for friends and loved ones to visit, this home will also help strengthen social connections and improve quality of life for residents.”

A key feature of this project is the partnership with Ktunaxa Nation, which is guiding cultural integration and supporting the incorporation of traditional knowledge and language. From landscaping with native plants to creating spaces that honour culture and connection, this collaboration is helping ensure the new home reflects the values and needs of the community.

“This new home will mean more seniors can stay close to their loved ones, receive the care they need, and live with dignity in a safe and welcoming environment,” said Sylvia Weir, interim president and CEO, Interior Health. “Residents and their families will enjoy a modernized health-care environment where they are supported by compassionate teams in a space that honours connection, culture and community.”

The Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home is part of the Province’s plan to improve care for seniors throughout the province. The B.C. government has invested approximately $3.5 billion over the past five years to improve care for seniors, including investments in primary care, home health, long-term care, assisted living and respite services.

Quotes:

Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay-Monashee and parliamentary secretary for rural development –

“The new Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home will provide modern, compassionate care primarily for seniors across the East Kootenay and Columbia Valley regions. This investment strengthens our commitment to supporting seniors in rural areas, while creating good local jobs for the future.”

Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay Central –

“This is a meaningful investment in the health and well-being of our community. The new Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home will not only provide better care for seniors closer to home, but also create jobs and spaces that bring people together – strengthening Cranbrook and area for generations to come.”

Dr. Todd Loewen, senior medical director, East Kootenay, Interior Health –  

“Not only does this improve quality of elderly care by positively impacting the health-care journey throughout one’s lifespan, the new, additional long-term care spaces will take significant pressure off our acute care system, allowing it to appropriately focus on what it is designed to do. Thus, we very much appreciate this commitment that will positively impact all health services in the region.”

Kathryn Teneese, chair, Ktunaxa Nation Council – 

“This project expands the Nation relationship with Interior Health to include avenues for potential contracting and business opportunities for Ktunaxa businesses. As well, Ktunaxa language and culture will be evident throughout the building, making it welcoming and beautiful.”

David Wilks, board chair, Kootenay East Regional Hospital District –

“We are proud to contribute $92 million – 40% of the funding – toward this long-awaited project and we are excited to see construction now underway. This milestone brings us closer to a new long-term care home for our region; a place where seniors can live with dignity, comfort and connection, and where families have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are supported in a safe and vibrant space.”

Learn More:

To read the funding announcement for this project, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HLTH0115-001471

To stay up to date on construction, visit the Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home project website:
https://engageih.ca/fwg-replacement