The idea of change can be a frightening prospect for some, especially when there are large dollar amounts involved in the equation. With change though, usually comes growth and without it things have a way of becoming stagnant.
Built in 1959, the current hospital in Yorkton IS in need of change. After much fundraising and study it's been determined the best way to move forward is to start anew. Cannon Design representatives were in the city last week to unveil a plan for a new facility and the concept was made public.
After 22 weeks of research, consultations and conversations it's looking like the best route is to design a new building at a new location, making use of the current facility until a new regional centre can be completed. It won't be cheap. With a price tag of nearly $300 million, it sounds like an impossible amount to gather together, but it's not.
It's natural for some residents to be concerned, as was evident at the recent plan unveiling. Why do we need a new hospital? Why are we spending so much money? Why are we spending on the old hospital when a new one is to be constructed? The list of questions goes on and on but the answers provided make sense.
It's almost as costly to renovate as it is to start from scratch. With a new facility, we can build up-to-date and to suit local needs. With new and state of the art equipment, we may finally have the ability to attract and retain quality physicians. We need to spend on the current building, as a new facility can't become a reality for at least another four years. Projects take time, especially if they're to be well thought out and properly designed. As for funding. We're looking at the province funding 80 per cent of this project. That's a large percentage.
Change is always a little frightening, but this is a win win for the city and a definite step forward into the growth that is inevitable.
