Health centres of all types, specifically hospitals, are a major undertaking, and the new Colchester East Hants Hospital in Truro is no exception. This 350,000-square foot, 124-bed facility offers surgical, medical, mental health, intensive care, maternal, emergency and ambulatory care services. In all, the new hospital features three interconnected buildings along with a physical plant—plus a multitude of upgrades, from expanded urology services to enhanced privacy and infection control, as well as a helipad for rapid transport. The project is one of BMR’s largest to date.
First, mass excavation and the creation of new access roads were completed and then the building was built in three stages, one stage for each of the three linked buildings. Foundations, and underground services (water and sewer) went in for each stage and then structure was erected for that building as foundation work began on the next. Foundations began in September 2008 and the framing was completed by July 2009, but our work didn’t end there, we worked with the design team supporting various types of equipment through the remainder of the construction. This was a time sensitive project and much of the structure was being built before many building envelope components were even designed. More than ever, our management and assessment expertise was put to the test. Fortunately, for the 73,000 prospective patients in the area, it’s a challenge we embraced, we met and we enjoyed.
