On September 22nd, VCI hosted a virtual town hall for Villa Colombo Toronto families, residents and caregivers, to share the latest updates regarding the VCT Revitalization project.

Over the past few months, we have been exploring all options for this revitalization, including a renovation of the existing building or the construction of a new adjacent facility. Based on the preliminary findings from our architectural firm Montgomery Sisam Architects Inc., we can share the following details for each of these options:

A. Renovation

• Renovation of the existing space is a more feasible plan than originally thought.
• Only the portion of the building housing the 266 Class B beds in question, will be renovated to meet the new standards.
• This may result in a reduced number of beds, through attrition only. No current residents will be impacted as a result.

B. New Building Addition Adjacent to Current Building

• We are looking at various scenarios should we conclude that a new building is required, which include:
• A new taller building with a smaller footprint (more vertical floors); or
• This may result in a reduced number of beds, through attrition only. No current residents will be impacted as a result.

As we continue to explore both options, how we move forward will be determined by a number of factors including cost, Ministry funding approvals, Municipal approvals of design, and fundraising feasibility for the anticipated financial gap between the current Ministry funding model and the cost to construct a new building or renovate the existing building.

Our priority is to proceed with a plan that will provide the most seamless transition for our residents with minimal disruption, while continuing to deliver the highest quality of care. The outcome must also make sense in terms of financial sustainability for the organization, and we will also strive to maintain the much-needed long-term care beds within the health care system.

Click here to download a copy of the Montgomery Sisam Architects Inc. presentation.