The redevelopment of Bethany Cochrane is expected to break ground in the spring of 2018.
Phase 1A will kick off the three-phase redevelopment plans on the existing Bethany Cochrane site with the building of 32 market rate lodge housing units.
The Bethany Care Society, which has been the sole provider of long-term care for Cochranites since the 1980s, announced its ground-breaking initiative yesterday.
“We are working closely with our architect to refine building plans,” said Alasdair Smith, vice-president and CFO of the Bethany Care Society.
The next phases, which include affordable housing and long-term care are at the mercy of government funding.
“Due to the reduced rents that are charged to tenants in affordable living arrangements, there is a need for financial assistance to help with the cost of construction,” said Smith.
“It has always been Bethany’s intention to build affordable units as part of our overall plan, however, it is dependent on the availability of government funding.”
A press release issued on Wednesday by the society stated “Bethany is anxiously awaiting the outcome of government funding applications to determine the next steps in terms of future project phasing.
As a non-profit society of Alberta, funding from the Government of Alberta is a critical component of any major project.”
Smith confirmed the society’s needs have been conveyed to the province, ahead of the budget.
Last fall, Bethany revealed site redevelopment plans for the “Campus of Care for Seniors.”
The existing Bethany Cochrane facility will remain standing until full redevelopment takes place, estimated to take 10 years. The Bethany Chapel (former All Saints Anglican Church) will be preserved.
