TENDER AWARDED FOR ILE A LA CROSSE FACILITY

The tender for a joint educational and health facility for the northern village of Ile a la Crosse has been awarded to Graham Construction of Saskatoon.

Based on designs by Saskatchewan-based AODBT Architecture and Interior Design, the two-storey building will act as an acute and long-term care facility, medical clinic and high school for the village. The building will also accommodate some post-secondary instruction, public and mental health services, counselling and common meeting rooms for the community, among its many uses.

The construction tender came in higher than originally estimated, due mostly to a booming construction industry in Saskatchewan. But the Health and Learning ministers confirmed the government's commitment to the project.

"One of Saskatchewan Health's highest priorities is to strengthen the province's network of healthcare facilities and to ensure sustainability of our health system," Health Minister John Nilson said. "This unique project replaces one of Saskatchewan's oldest hospitals and will achieve ongoing savings by combining a health facility with an educational facility."

"This project is part of the government's commitment to invest in modern, well-equipped learning facilities for Saskatchewan students," Learning Minister Andrew Thomson added. "The new building will become a focal point for the community, ensuring a high quality educational environment."

Construction should begin immediately in Ile a la Crosse, with completion of the project in 2007. The construction budget for the project will be $29 million plus GST, up from initial estimates of $19.5 million.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083

Maria DiAntonio Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-9715