Bethany Care Society is set to break ground on a new state-of-the-art care home in the Hounsfield Heights-Briar Hill neighbourhood, marking the beginning of a long-anticipated redevelopment project. Funded in part by a $114 million commitment from the Government of Alberta, the care home for seniors and adults with disabilities will feature 420 private continuing care rooms, ensuring every resident can enjoy their own private bedroom and ensuite.

Designed by the national firm Zeidler Architecture, the new building will include amenities for residents, families, and community members to enjoy, such as a bistro, outdoor courtyards, enrichment activity areas, and gathering spaces. Care will be delivered in a new way, with small “homes” that each have 14 rooms, shared dining and living spaces, and their own unique look and feel. Just like homes on a street, they will form a neighbourhood with their own distinct character, creating a sense of individuality and warmth.

Bethany Calgary, one of the oldest care centres in Alberta, has been serving families since its establishment on this site in 1945. Despite several renovations, the existing building no longer meets modern design standards for care environments.

“Over 20 years ago, we began planning for the eventual replacement of Bethany Calgary as models of care evolved and as costs and risks associated with aging infrastructure increased,” said Jennifer McCue, President and CEO of Bethany. “This new development will ensure we can continue serving Alberta seniors in a modern, welcoming environment that truly reflects our mission to create caring communities.”

The new care home will offer a modern, home-like environment for seniors and adults with disabilities. Construction will take place on the southeast corner of the existing site, ensuring no disruption to residents or the healthcare system’s capacity.

In April 2023, the Government of Alberta announced funding for the Bethany Calgary Redevelopment Project, recognizing the importance of updating care environments to meet evolving needs. The project is part of the government’s broader commitment to strengthening Alberta’s healthcare system and enhancing care for seniors. Minister Adriana LaGrange will attend the ceremony and speak on behalf of the province’s continued support for seniors’ care.

“Alberta’s government is proud to provide $114 million to ensure the Bethany Care Society can continue to support residents, staff, and the growing community. This investment will contribute to increasing space and updating amenities for residents and families – a reflection our government’s commitment to enhancing access to the quality care Albertans deserve,” says Minister LaGrange.

“We are deeply grateful for the Government of Alberta’s investment in this project, which reflects their commitment to improving continuing care across the province,” said Dr. Albert Kryski, Board Chair, Bethany Care Society. “The Bethany Calgary redevelopment will allow us to continue serving Calgary’s diverse community for decades to come, in a care home designed to meet the current and future needs of seniors and adults with disabilities.”

“We’re thrilled to celebrate the start of construction on a project we believe will set a new standard for long-term care in Calgary and Alberta,” says Bill Mitchell, Partner, Zeidler Architecture. “The small-home model will shape the future of senior living design, with a focus on enhancing the resident experience through more intimate living spaces coupled with themed community spaces on each floor. Working alongside Bethany Care, our goal was to create a space that feels like a true home rather than an institutional space, and I’m proud to say we’ve achieved that with the design of this new care facility.”

The construction of the 370,000 square foot building is targeted for completion in late fall 2027.

In addition to the funding provided by the Government of Alberta, Bethany Care Foundation will be launching a capital campaign in Fall 2024 to raise $20M for the new Bethany Calgary.

For more information on the project, visit: developmentbethany.com