3 regional hospitals get nearly $2.7 million for upgrades

Three local hospitals will receive nearly $2.7 million from the province this year for necessary upgrades.

The province made the funding announcement Thursday. The money will come from the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund and the province says it's an increase of $50 million over 2015 funding.

"I worked at Cambridge Memorial Hospital and I can attest to the high quality of care that is offered at their facility. When investments like this are made a priority by government, it is not just health care that wins; it is truly a win for the community as a whole," Cambridge MPP Kathryn McGarry said in a release about the funding.

Funding will ensure hospitals are updated, maintained 

In total, three hospitals will received $2,698,039. In Kitchener, St. Mary's General Hospital will get $524,334, Grand River Hospital will get $1,555,561 and Cambridge Memorial Hospital will received $618,144.

Toni Lemon, interim CEO of the Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network, said the spending will "help ensure that the buildings that house health services are updated and maintained to match the exceptional care that is provided within."

It's not just health care that wins; it is truly a win for the community as a whole.- Cambridge MPP Kathryn McGarry

At Cambridge Memorial Hospital, the money will help pay for repairs and upgrades to the current facility, which is being expanded, president and CEO Patrick Gaskin said.

St. Mary's General Hospital president Don Shilton said the money will go towards a number of projects, including flooring repairs and roof and window replacements. Malcolm Maxwell, president and CEO of Grand River Hospital said the funds will help keep buildings safe and comfortable.

Daiene Vernile, MPP for Kitchener Centre, applauded the spending injection. 

"Hospitals form the foundation of our healthcare system, and updates made possible by this funding will ensure that St. Mary's General Hospital and Grand River Hospital will continue to provide outstanding care to families and individuals in our community," she said.