The Government of Saskatchewan and Ahtahkakoop Cree Developments (ACD) have reached a significant milestone with the groundbreaking of Saskatoon's new Urgent Care Centre (UCC). Following the signing of the final development agreement, construction is set to begin soon, marking a crucial step in improving health care access for the city's residents.
Premier Scott Moe expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, stating, "We are very pleased to have reached an agreement with Ahtahkakoop Cree Developments and can proceed with construction of the new Saskatoon Urgent Care Centre. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to enhancing health care services for all Saskatchewan people."
The new UCC will be located at 215 Avenue S South, on the site of the former Pleasant Hill School, near St. Paul’s Hospital. It aims to alleviate the strain on the hospital's emergency department by providing an alternative option for urgent health care needs.
Health Minister Everett Hindley shared his excitement about the project, saying, "Residents of this community and the surrounding area will soon have access to an alternative option for urgent health care. This centre will be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for services in Saskatoon."
The design for the Saskatoon UCC is modelled after the Regina Urgent Care Centre, which opened in July 2024. Construction of the Saskatoon facility is expected to begin in the fall of 2024, with completion targeted for the spring of 2026.
SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister Terry Jenson praised Ahtahkakoop Cree Developments for their dedication in bringing the project to fruition. "This groundbreaking marks the culmination of hard work and partnership. I want to thank ACD for their efforts in making this unique project possible for Saskatoon and the province."
Once completed, the UCC will be operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) under a long-term lease with ACD. Graham Construction has been selected as the builder for the project.
Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO Andrew Will emphasized the centre's importance, noting, "The Saskatoon Urgent Care Centre will provide timely, collaborative care to patients dealing with illness, injury, and mental health or addiction needs. This facility is a vital addition to our health care infrastructure."
Ahtahkakoop Cree Developments will also retain and integrate the former Pleasant Hill School building into future development plans. Chief Larry Ahenakew highlighted the importance of forward-thinking projects like this one, stating, "Let us not think of ourselves but of our children's children."
The Saskatoon UCC is one of two centres announced as part of the provincial government's $7.5 billion capital plan. The Regina UCC, which opened earlier this year, has already seen significant success, serving nearly 7,000 patients in its first two months of operation.
The new Saskatoon UCC will play a crucial role in providing accessible, urgent health care services, further enhancing the province's health care system.