The Government of Ontario has announced plans to rebuild West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, starting with providing a $500,000 grant to fund early planning efforts.

The province also plans to invest $8.5 million to support immediate infrastructure improvements, beginning this month, while the early planning work for the redevelopment of the hospital is completed. These upgrades include work on the hospital’s elevator, emergency generator, fire alarm system, nurse call systems, cooling and heating, plumbing and electrical systems, replacement of flooring tiles and selected cabinets and casework.

“The health and safety of patients across Ontario is a key point for our government,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, in a press release. “That is why I am proud to announce important investments in health infrastructure like West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, so the people of Grimsby and the surrounding area have access to the high quality and reliable health care they deserve, close to home.”

On average each year, over 25,000 people visit the emergency department at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, and over 2,900 are admitted to the hospital. In addition, approximately 1,000 babies are born each year at the hospital.