Ontario will invest $175 million in 2016-17 to hospitals across the province to keep them in a state of good repair, a $50 million increase compared to last year’s funding. The money will go towards infrastructure renewal such as upgrades or replacements to roofs, windows, HVAC systems, fire alarms and back-up generators.

Premier Kathleen Wynne made the announcement at Michael Garron Hospital, which will receive more than $2.8 million this year through the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund (HIRF). Other investments for 2016-17 include over $1.3 million to St. Joseph’s Health Centre; over $5.5 million to St. Michael’s Hospital; $10 million for Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre; more than $4.3 million for The Hospital for Sick Children; and $10 million for the University Health Network.

“Many hospitals need to repair or replace roofs, windows and fire alarms,” said Premier Kathleen Wynne in a press release. “Our government has more than tripled our investment in this crucial infrastructure to ensure that patients can continue to receive high-quality care in a safe and healthy environment.”

$56 million was allocated to hospital renovation in 2013-14, which was increased to $125 million in each of the following two years. Now, the province is providing an additional $50 million in funding to help address the critical need for repairs across the province. Across the province, 135 hospitals will receive funding through HIRF to support crucial infrastructure projects. HIRF allocations are decided using evidence to support proportional renewal needs across the province and to address emerging needs and exceptional circumstances.