FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The District of Sicamous is excited to unveil preliminary designs of the Shuswap Healing Centre and provide a project update for the community.

The preliminary exterior designs were crafted though a visioning process facilitated by Douglas Cardinal, a world-renowned Indigenous architect working alongside Scott Builders Inc. to bring the project to life. Reflecting the Monashee Mountains and picturesque waters of the Shuswap region, the design is meant to complement the natural surroundings of Sicamous. 

The design renderings demonstrate the orientation of the 15,000 square-foot building, its form and character, as well as the relationship of the building with the natural environment. The future home of the Sicamous Community Health Centre will also encompass allied health services, shared community space, a centre for traditional Indigenous healing and two accommodation units for visiting health professionals.

An important consideration in the project design is the preservation of existing greenspace; over half an acre will be maintained. Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback on greenspace design at an open house being scheduled later this year.

“Council has listened to residents’ desire to maintain downtown greenspace. The design ensures that over half an acre will not only be preserved, but enhanced for the enjoyment of our community,” says Mayor Terry Rysz. “The Shuswap Healing Centre will provide generations of families with access to modernized primary care and wellness services.”

A Health Needs Assessment for Sicamous was completed last fall through engagement with community groups, health and wellness professionals and Splatsin. Health-care consultant Dr. Avein Saaty-Tafoya continues to work with the Sicamous Community Health Centre Manager, community stakeholders and Splatsin representatives to finalize programming.

The project, which now has a Class “C” estimate of $7.9 million, is being funded by the Rural and Northern Communities Fund of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and District capital reserves. Additional funding for equipment is being pursued through the Shuswap Hospital Foundation and the District will utilize the Canada-Community Building Fund for greenspace enhancement.

A development permit application for Council consideration is expected to be submitted this Fall. To date, topographical, geotechnical and archaeological surveys have been conducted on the project site with an environmental assessment set for September. Construction is anticipated to begin in April of 2023 with completion in March of 2024.

-30-

Background Information:

• July 2022 Project Update – Slide Deck
• Shuswap Healing Centre Webpage

PDF VERSION