Newmarket, Ontario - Subsequent to the Ontario government's recent commitment to more than $88 million in funding for the Regional Redevelopment project, Southlake has begun its long-awaited, $148-million expansion.

"We are thrilled to be moving forward with something that is so vital to the health care needs of this growing and aging population," stated Daniel Carriere, President and CEO.

"This project will give us the space and the tools we need to overcome current constraints and exceed expectations on a local and regional basis."

Capital funding provided by the Province of Ontario, the Regional Municipality of York and through donations to the Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation will enhance space and privacy in patient care areas and support the further development of advanced programs and procedures.

"The government's proven support for the redevelopment of this hospital is a true example of their commitment to improving access and enhancing services for better patient care," said Carriere.

The first two phases of the project are expected to be complete in 2004 and will include the construction of a new six-storey tower and extensive renovations to the existing towers. Of particular benefit to the community during these phases will be the addition of patient care beds, the creation of a full service, state-of-the-art cardiac program including open-heart surgery, and the expansion of the emergency department to three times its current size.

Southlake Regional Health Centre is a fully accredited, 333-bed hospital serving a population of approximately 182,000 people who reside in northern York region, southeastern Simcoe County and northwestern Durham region.

Staff and physicians join Hospital President and CEO,
Daniel Carriere (left) and The Honourable Tony Clement,
Ontario Minister of Health and Long-Term Care (right)
at Southlake Regional Health Centre's construction kick-off event.