AJAX, ONT. — PCL Constructors Canada Inc. has signed a contract to design and build a new long-term care home at the Ajax Pickering Hospital site.
The announcement was made Dec.17 by Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Lakeridge Health.
PCL was selected as the successful proponent as the result of a two-stage competitive and accelerated procurement process. In the first-stage, a Request for Qualifications and Standing Offer (RFQSO) was issued to establish a list of firms with the demonstrated ability and experience in rapid delivery construction projects and mandates, states a release. In the second stage, shortlisted firms from the RFQSO were invited to enter into meetings and negotiations, concluding with the contract award.
The home will have capacity for up to 320 beds to help address capacity issues within Ontario’s health and long-term care system. It will include private or semi-private bedrooms, lounge areas, dining rooms, terraces and enhancements to HVAC, such as 100 per cent fresh air supply capability.
The project is being delivered as part of the Accelerated Build Pilot Program. Through the use of hospital-owned land, rapid procurement and modular construction, the pilot program, which will add up to 1,280 long-term care beds in the GTA, aims to deliver new long-term care homes years sooner than a traditional development project, adds the release.
“Our team is passionate to deliver this critical project that will enable Lakeridge Health to provide high-quality, long-term care for seniors in Durham Region,” said Marc Pascoli, district manager for PCL Constructors Canada Inc. (Toronto), in the release. “We are committed to accelerating this project for the community and maintaining a positive relationship with neighbours and all stakeholders.”
IO and Lakeridge Health will work together to manage construction and commissioning of the project and the completed facility will be owned by Lakeridge Health and operated on a not-for-profit basis.
For too long the larger plot of land at Harwood and Clements remained empty and unused – except for the heli-landing pad !
It is good to see an LT care facility being built adjoining an existing hospital. In my opinion all future LT homes should be constructed adjoining or very close to a hospital facility so that the residents can get fast, efficient and, dare I say, life-saving attention. Look forward to this much needed facility opening in our neighbourhood.