ATIKOKAN –Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland made a pre-holiday visit to Atikokan, where he announced funding for several local projects.
Holland made an appearance at the Atikokan General Hospital on Wednesday, where he announced nearly $800,000 for repairs and upgrades to the facility.
Holland also states that the funding will be being allocated to update the hospital’s sprinkler system which he says, “is essential for the safety of the patients and staff.”
Jorge Vanslyke, the president and CEO of the Atikokan General Hospital, said they're thrilled to receive the funding.
"We are very excited to hear that we are getting that amount for the infrastructure project because the sprinkler is a legislative requirement and it is also for the safety of the patients and residences," Vanslyke said.
“We are really excited to begin the work. The commitment of the province and ministry is very evident and we are really hoping that his support will continue as we still have more critical infrastructure that needs to be dealt with in the near future."
Vanslyke hospital also needs upgrades to their service wing HVAC system, which will cost about $3 million to replace.
“So, any support we can get for that could be really beneficial to make sure we are running safely and efficiently,” Vanslyke said.
The first phase of the redevelopment of the hospital's acute care wing has been completed. For the seccond phase, Vanslyke said the hospital is looking to connect the emergency department to the acute care wing to provide a better space for their laboratory and diagnostic imaging.
In addition to the funding for the hospital, Holland also announced that $33,500 to Atikokan Community Living for new air conditioning units.
“It is imperative that we continue to provide a comfortable work environment for staff at a time, and in a community, where retention can be challenging, and this funding upgrades us to maintain a level of professionalism and credibility with families who see that CLA takes pride in not only the supports that are provided but the environment in which we do so,” said Jim Turner, Executive Director, Community Living Atikokan in a news release.
The Rainy River District Women’s Shelter of Hope is also receiving $84,000 for repairs to their parking lot, walkways, and entrances, as well as, accessibility upgrades to their main office, and washroom upgrades.
Atikokan Mayor Rob Ferguson said that he is very happy to see these much-needed grants come to Atikokan.
“In Atikokan, we have a lot of facilities and there is a lot of upkeep in our facilities. It is a struggle to maintain as it is what we are doing. We are very appreciative of the money for the hospital. The safety of the patients and the staff are of utmost importance. The other grant that we’ve received is long due for Atikokan and we really do appreciate everything that’s going to make Atikokan a better place to live, “said Ferguson.
