In a significant development for senior care in Northern BC, new long-term care homes have been approved for Quesnel and Smithers, promising to bring more than 380 new publicly funded beds to these communities.
In Quesnel, the new facility will add 221 beds and replace 67 beds from the existing Dunrovin Park Lodge, resulting in a total of 288 beds. Located on land provided by the City of Quesnel, construction is set to begin in the fall of 2026, with the facility expected to open its doors to residents by late 2028. The new home will feature design elements focused on comfort and community, including households of 12 residents with private single-bed rooms and bathrooms, as well as social and recreational spaces like living rooms, dining areas, and outdoor spaces. Additionally, a 32-space adult day program will be offered to support seniors living independently at home, providing social activities, exercise, and health checks.
Meanwhile, Smithers will also see a boost in long-term care with the addition of 160 new beds. This new home will replace 56 beds at Bulkley Valley Lodge, bringing the total to 216 beds. The facility will be constructed on land provided by the Town of Smithers, with construction expected to start in the spring of 2028 and the opening projected for 2030. Like the Quesnel facility, it will be designed with households of 12 residents, private rooms and bathrooms, and various social and recreational spaces. A 32-space adult day program will also be available to support seniors who are still living at home.
These new long-term care homes are part of a broader investment by the government, which has committed approximately $3.5 billion since 2018 to expand and enhance care for seniors across the province. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for long-term care services and improve the quality of care in rural and remote areas.
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