Chilliwack, B.C. – August 19, 2024 – The Province of British Columbia, in partnership with Fraser Health, has announced a significant expansion of long-term care facilities in Chilliwack to address the growing demand for quality senior care in the region. The announcement was made during a press conference attended by Minister of Health Adrian Dix, local MLAs Kelli Paddon and Dan Coulter, City of Chilliwack Mayor Ken Popove, and Dr. Victoria Lee, CEO of Fraser Health.

The new state-of-the-art facility, to be constructed on the 9000 block of Mary Street, will replace the existing Bradley Centre, which opened in 1973. The five-storey building will include 200 long-term care beds, of which 110 are new, and 90 will replace existing beds at the Menholm Road facility. Additionally, the facility will feature a 32-spot adult daycare, providing essential services and social support for older adults living independently. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with a total investment of $274.1 million from the provincial government and Fraser Valley Regional Hospital District.

“This new long-term care home will make a meaningful difference for seniors living in Chilliwack and the surrounding areas. It will not only support seniors to live in a community setting while receiving high-quality care, but it will also offer seniors living at home another option to receive care through the adult day program, which will benefit caregivers as well,” said Kelli Paddon, MLA for Chilliwack-Kent.

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing senior care in B.C., stating, “The redevelopment of the Bradley Centre, which will add 110 new beds and replace 90 existing beds, demonstrates our government’s commitment to improving care for seniors in B.C. By investing in building more long-term care homes and improving the quality of existing facilities, we’re securing a future where older adults can age with dignity in their community.”

The new facility will be designed with a focus on creating a home-like environment, featuring private single-bed rooms with bathrooms, living and dining rooms, activity areas, and access to outdoor spaces. The design incorporates lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, with enhanced infection control measures, and will cater to a diverse population with a culturally sensitive approach.

This development marks a major step forward in ensuring that seniors in Chilliwack and the surrounding areas have access to the care and services they need, close to home. The new long-term care home will also serve as a community hub, with spaces for art and activities, a hair salon, and a sacred space, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for residents, families, and staff.