The Ontario government is marking a construction milestone at Niagara Health’s new South Niagara Hospital with the installation of the final structural beam.
The 12-storey, 1.3-million-square-foot facility will add 156 beds compared to the combined total at Niagara Health’s existing Port Colborne, Fort Erie and Niagara Falls sites, bringing the new hospital’s capacity to 469 beds.
The province is investing $3.2 billion toward construction of the hospital, which is intended to consolidate and expand acute care services while incorporating updated infrastructure and new technology.
Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati says a new hospital in the city is long overdue.
Once the South Niagara Hospital opens, Niagara Health will operate three hospital sites in St. Catharines, Niagara Falls and Welland. The province is also funding renovations and critical infrastructure upgrades at the Welland Hospital to support patient care and improve facilities.
Plans for the new site include a 24/7 emergency department, expanded diagnostic, surgical and therapeutic services, ambulatory and complex continuing care inpatient services, and specialized centres focused on stroke, complex care, geriatric care and wellness in aging.
Niagara Health Foundation CEO Andrea Scott says a lot can be done when you work together.
The new South Niagara Hospital is expected to open in the summer of 2028.
(Written by: Matt Latour)