Saskatchewan health facility maintenance and upgrade projects are receiving additional funding to the tune of $17.8 million as part of the province’s two-year capital to plan to stimulate economic recovery.

Eighty-seven health facility projects will benefit from the funds in 2020-21 for roof replacements, renovations to clinic spaces, generator and boiler replacements, and security improvements, among other upgrades. Some of the projects designated to benefit from the investment include front entrance upgrades at Battlefords Union Hospital, water and sewer line replacement at the Regina General Hospital, and a boiler replacement project at Melfort Hospital.

“This increase in capital funding will help us upgrade existing health care facilities and improve the experiences of patients, residents and staff,” said Health Minister Jim Reiter in a statement. “Our government recognizes the importance of maintaining and upgrading facilities and supporting safe health care environments.  By connecting this work to our province’s economic recovery, Saskatchewan residents will benefit from improved health care as well as an improved economy.”

The $17.8 million funding will be in addition to the $55 million for health facility maintenance and upgrades already included in the 2020-21 budget. A $7.2 million investment in long-term care maintenance projects was also announced by the government earlier this week.

Of the $100 million in health renewal project funding announced by the province, a total of $25 million will be provided in 2020-21. The remaining $75 million is allocated for 2021-22 and is expected to be applied to the completion of an additional 225 projects.