Integrated multi-phase project to include medical centre, condominiums and a retirement community
Canadian Design and Construction Report special feature
Work is well underway in developing the Little Lake Seniors Community in Barrie Ontario. Once completed, the multi-phase project is expected to include a medical centre, a condominium development and a retirement community.
The project’s first phase, a five-storey 50,000 sq. ft. regional community health centre, has been designed by MCL Architects Inc. and is being built under the supervision of construction manager Brimanor Construction Services Ltd. President Robson Knapp says the first phase is expected to be completed in October with the next phases coming in over the next few years.
“There is a five-acre parcel of land in the centre of the project set to become 360 condominium units with amenities including a pool, fitness centre, café and salon. That development though is contingent on the completion of the bridge bypass which is at least a two-year project.”
He says the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Fund also plans to build a 150-170 bed retirement home including assisted living and memory care housing options. This phase should open next summer.
“When everything is done you can buy a condominium, be guaranteed a doctor through the medical centre and have the retirement community adjacent for flexible assisted living when those services are required,” he said.
Knapp says the medical centre has been constructed with local trades, incorporating common-sense energy savings. Features like the third floor communal waiting room with curtain wall overlooking Little Lake make the centre bright and airy and connect visitors to the natural environment.
The centre will include family doctors, specialist, minor surgery services, a pharmacy and lab, optometry, health and wellness services, nurses and nurse practitioners.
Knapp says Brimanor Construction Services Ltd. has developed an expertise with this type of project, having constructed several others across the province.
