Indigenous Leaders Join Project Team at the Planning Table
6-6-2025
As part of ongoing work to develop the design documents in preparation for the next major milestone - procurement of a final design builder - the project team met with leaders from First Nation Communities and Indigenous organizations in the region this month to provide an update and gather input on evolving plans.
Held at the Metropolitan Campus, with a virtual attendance option, the gathering provided an opportunity for First Nations Chiefs and Indigenous community leaders to engage directly with the project team.
"It was an opportunity to build on progress to date, share key highlights and harness the collective wisdom and insights of our Indigenous partners," said Audrey Logan, Indigenous Planning and Engagement lead for the project. "Together, we are not just building a hospital; we are creating a healing environment that reflects and respects our diverse cultural heritage."
Participants were encouraged to actively contribute to the planning process, joining dedicated User Group members representing diverse communities and organizations. These representatives have been instrumental in working alongside our project team - including architects, engineers, and experienced planners - as integral members of the Indigenous Services User Group. This collaboration is pivotal in creating a hospital that is not just functional but culturally safe and inclusive for all.
Current plans for the new hospital include a prominently featured Indigenous healing space at the front of the building, designed with direct access to an outdoor healing garden. This space is being designed to honor the significance of traditional medicines for Indigenous communities and is purposefully crafted to accommodate sacred ceremonies, fostering connections between family members, caregivers, and staff.