Prince Albert Chamber Connection 2025

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2025 CONNECTION The Chamber

Official publication of the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce

Highlighting the Vibrant Business Community, Promoting Economic Development, and Driving Regional Prosperity in Prince Albert.

INAUGURAL

Chamber Mission and Values

The Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce is the primary voice for businesses to foster a prosperous and vibrant community. To support the local and regional business communities by creating economic strength through advocacy, education and building relationships.

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A message from the Chief Executive Officer of the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce

It is with great excitement that I launch my first Chamber Connection magazine as Chief Executive Officer of the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce. Since stepping into this role in November 2021, I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to connect with our members and board members, learning about their unique stories and contributions to our thriving business community.

I am incredibly proud of all that the Chamber has accomplished, and particularly of our ChamberHQ building—where “Business meets here.” ChamberHQ was designed to foster connection, collaboration, and innovation, providing a hub for our business community to come together, share ideas, and drive meaningful

change. This past year, we’ve hosted events, supported workshops, and built strong partnerships, including with Community Futures, as part of our unwavering commitment to support local businesses and nurture their growth.

As we look to the future, I remain dedicated to driving positive change in our community and advancing the Chamber’s mission to create opportunities for businesses and foster a prosperous region. Thank you for your unwavering support and for actively participating in our Chamber initiatives. Together, we can continue to achieve remarkable things for Prince Albert.

Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce

Your Chamber Staff

MERCY

Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

KELLY DISIEWICH Past Chair
JEFF STUMPF Treasurer
WAYNE NOGIER
BRENDA BYERS Chair
ERIN BROMPHAY
BRAD LE MOAL
CODY DEMERAIS 1st Vice Chair
BRITTNEY ROSENBERG
COLETTE HARNETT
TANYA TOOTOOSIS 2nd Vice Chair
KAMAL SINGH
BROOKE WOZNIAK
BRETT WELLS
MARLENE GOLDBERG

BENEFITS of a Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce MEMBERSHIP

The Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, community organization made up of local businesses, professionals, and people in Prince Albert and the surrounding area. Together, we are working towards building a strong and growing commerce for our region through various programs and partnerships.

Joining the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce is a strategic investment in your business and the community. As a member, you receive access to a variety of supports and services.

COST SAVINGS,

DISCOUNTS, AND PROGRAMS:

• Chambers Plan Employee Benefits Program.

• Affinity programs – HR Covered, Pay works, Esso, Chamber Perks App, Abor Memorial Discount.

• Member to member savings.

• Certificates of Origin.

VISIBILITY AND EXPOSURE:

• Chamber Perks App.

• Online business listing on the Prince Albert & District Chamber website.

• Grand openings and customer appreciations

• Speaking opportunities

• Opportunities to advertise and promote your business through the Chamber’s marketing efforts (e-blasts, newsletters and social media)

• Referrals to member businesses.

• Community calendar event page listing.

• Sponsorship opportunities at our events.

• Job board listings

NETWORKING:

• Annual Chamber Duffer Classic.

• Monthly lunch networking and guest speakers.

• Workshops and meetings throughout the year.

• Monthly Uncork & Unwind

ADVOCACY AND REPRESENTATION:

• Lobbying on behalf of member needs and other issues that impact the regions at municipal, provincial, and federal levels.

• Opportunity to provide valuable input through Chamber surveys.

ACCESS TO INFORMATION AND RESOURCES:

• Biweekly newsletter.

• Annual issue of Chamber Connection magazine.

• Connections through the Chamber office – Chamber HQ.

• Access to additional information through the Saskatchewan and Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and other industry associations.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO COMMUNITY:

• Providing leadership as a member of the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce board of directors.

• Volunteering for Chamber events and special initiatives.

• Election candidate forums.

• Hosting of events that impact the region including the The Samuel McLeod Business Awards, State of the City Address, Minister Finance Luncheon, and Chief of Police Luncheon..

Are you taking full advantage of your membership benefits? If not, reach out to the Chamber office to discuss your needs.

The Chamber of Commerce: A vital piece of the community fabric

In every thriving community, there is an engine driving economic growth, fostering connections, and supporting the dreams of entrepreneurs. In Prince Albert, that engine is the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce. More than an organization, it is a cornerstone of local prosperity, tirelessly advocating for businesses and ensuring that the backbone of the economy—small business—remains strong.

SMALL BUSINESSES: THE HEART OF PRINCE ALBERT

Small businesses are more than storefronts and service providers; they are the lifeblood of Prince Albert’s economy. They create jobs, bring innovative ideas to life, and contribute to the distinct character of the city. Whether it’s a family-owned shop, a bustling café, or a growing tech startup, these enterprises keep the local economy vibrant and resilient. The Chamber of Commerce

plays a critical role in supporting these businesses—offering resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities that empower entrepreneurs to thrive.

THE UNSEEN FORCE BEHIND EVERY EVENT

Walk through any festival, attend a hockey tournament, or cheer at a dance recital in Prince Albert, and you’ll see the community coming together. But behind the scenes, it’s the local businesses that make these events possible. Sponsorships, donations, and volunteer efforts from business owners and entrepreneurs ensure that fundraisers succeed, that young athletes get their chance to compete, and that cultural events flourish. The Chamber of Commerce connects these businesses to the causes that matter most, fostering a spirit of generosity and shared success.

A FUTURE BUILT ON COLLABORATION

As Prince Albert continues to evolve, the Chamber remains at the forefront, advocating for businessfriendly policies, encouraging economic development, and strengthening the connections that hold the community together. Its mission goes beyond supporting individual businesses—it’s about building a stronger, more prosperous Prince Albert for generations to come.

With every storefront, every sponsorship, and every handshake, the Chamber of Commerce ensures that the spirit of collaboration and local enterprise remains woven into the fabric of the community. It’s not just about business—it’s about building a place where everyone thrives.

Small businesses are more than storefronts and service providers; they are the lifeblood of Prince Albert’s economy. They create jobs, bring innovative ideas to life, and contribute to the distinct character of the city.

MORE THAN JUST SPEAKING

Advancing our community through advocacy: A spotlight on the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce

At the heart of Prince Albert’s business community lies a tireless commitment to building a stronger, more equitable environment for businesses and organizations to thrive. The Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce has long been a champion of advocacy, working on behalf of our members to influence policy and amplify the needs of our local business ecosystem. Here’s how our efforts have delivered meaningful change over the past year:

PST exemption for complimentary admissions and tickets included in sponsorship packages

Non-profits, businesses, and other organizations provide vital opportunities for community engagement through complimentary admissions and sponsorship packages. We’re proud to have effectively support the removal of

Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on these items. As a result, businesses, nonprofits, and organizations no longer need to self-assess and remit PST on complimentary admissions given away free of charge or included in a sponsorship package. This change reduces administrative burdens and promotes accessibility, enabling community groups to focus on delivering their events and initiatives effectively.

Small business tax permanently at one per cent

Small businesses fuel our local economy, creating jobs and fostering innovation. In collaboration with chambers across the province, we successfully advocated for the permanent reduction of the small business tax rate to one per cent. This is a historic achievement that ensures long-term benefits for entrepreneurs. By making this reduction permanent, we’ve

created an environment where small businesses can reinvest, grow, and continue contributing to Prince Albert’s vibrant economic landscape.

New Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Tax Credit Pilot

Program

As part of our mission to empower the business community, we’re excited to highlight the introduction of a three-year pilot for a new Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Tax Credit. Inspired by the success of the Saskatchewan Technology Startup Incentive, this program is tailored to support enterprises in key sectors such as food and beverage manufacturing, and machinery and transportation. The pilot includes a generous 45 per cent non-refundable tax credit for individuals or corporations who invest in the equity of eligible Saskatchewan SMEs. This initiative not only encourages investment but also stimulates growth in industries critical to our region’s economy.

Advocating for fairer municipal tax ratios for commercial properties

Property taxes are often a heavy burden for commercial entities, impacting everything from profitability to growth potential. Our Chamber has been steadfast in

advocating for fairer municipal tax ratios that reflect a more balanced approach for commercial properties. Through dialogue with local leaders and community stakeholders, we are making meaningful progress in ensuring that the tax system is equitable, fostering a climate that attracts and retains businesses in Prince Albert.

Addressing mental health, addictions, and homelessness

The challenges of mental health, addictions, and homelessness have increasingly reached the doorsteps of local businesses. To address this, the Chamber has been advocating for additional government supports to tackle these critical issues. We strongly support the creation of additional treatment beds across the province, which will provide much-needed resources for those struggling with addictions and mental health concerns. Furthermore, we back the expansion of the complex needs emergency shelter pilot program, currently underway in Regina and Saskatoon, to Prince Albert. These initiatives are vital steps toward creating a safer, more supportive environment for our community and businesses.

Looking ahead

Advocacy is at the core of what we do as a Chamber. Whether it’s addressing new challenges or championing opportunities for growth, we remain dedicated to serving as the voice of our business community. By continuing to work collaboratively with members, government, and other stakeholders,

we’re confident that we can further enhance Prince Albert’s economic and social landscape.

Together, we’re building a brighter future for businesses, non-profits, and residents alike. Thank you to our members for being part of this journey—your support fuels the success of our advocacy efforts.

Our Chamber has been steadfast in advocating for fairer municipal tax ratios that reflect a more balanced approach for commercial properties.

Celebrating excellence at the 2025 Samuel McLeod Business Awards

On the evening of April 11, 2025, Plaza 88 in Prince Albert shone brightly as it hosted the highly anticipated Samuel McLeod Business Awards. This cherished

annual event celebrates the innovation, resilience, and contributions of the local business community, and the 2024 ceremony was nothing short of extraordinary.

With Tracy Feher of Feher Financial and Phil Hounjet of RBC serving as charismatic emcees, the night promised to be memorable.

The event opened on a heartfelt note with a bilingual rendition of “O Canada” sung by Falynn Baptiste in English and Cree, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Allan Bonaise followed with a powerful Honour Drum performance, setting the tone for the evening by acknowledging the finalists and the vibrant business community.

Twelve prestigious awards were presented throughout the night, highlighting achievements across various sectors. The Business of the Year, sponsored by Prosperity Credit Union, was won by Parkland Ambulance, celebrating their vital role in the community. Cradled Wellness, sponsored by Saskatchewan Blue Cross, was

recognized as Micro Enterprise of the Year for their outstanding growth and innovation.

Among the night’s highlights was the Indigenous Business Award, sponsored by Northern Lights Casino, which honoured Vermette Wood Preservers for their contributions and impact. The Diversity in the Workplace Award went to Scotiabank, courtesy of sponsor TD Canada Trust, showcasing the importance of inclusivity in business practices.

Trevor and Coralee Dutchak of Parkland Ambulance received the Business Leader of the Year, sponsored by MNP, applauded for their leadership and vision. Meanwhile, Prince Albert Cooperative Health Centre was named Non-Profit of the Year, sponsored by Affinity Credit Union.

Young entrepreneurs Denver and Becky Johnson of Bison Ridge Farms made waves, taking home the Young Entrepreneur Award sponsored by Prince Albert Community Futures. Their farm also secured the Marketing Award, backed by BDC, for their remarkable promotional efforts. The New Venture Award went to Holiday Inn, sponsored by Conexus Credit Union, celebrating their success as a fresh addition to

the city’s business scene.

Lake Country Co-op earned the Community Involvement Award, sponsored by SaskTel, for their dedication to giving back to the community. Korycki Mechanical stood out for their Customer Service excellence, sponsored by RBC, while Embrace Orthodontics was lauded for Business Transformation, with support from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Trade and Export Development.

The evening culminated in the presentation of the Legacy Award to Byron Guy, a profound recognition for his lasting contributions. Represented by his father, Harold Guy of Harold’s Family Foods, Byron was also honoured with a ceremonial Star Blanket, symbolizing respect and gratitude.

The 2024 Samuel McLeod Business Awards proved to be a beautiful celebration of community, culture, and outstanding achievements. With a diverse array of businesses recognized and applauded, the event served as a reminder of the strength and spirit that drives Prince Albert’s vibrant economy. Bravo to all finalists and recipients—your contributions inspire and elevate the entire community!

Not for Profit, All for Stability

Being a not-for-profit is one of the strengths of Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan. It’s a mandate to manage premiums with extra care, and a path toward sustainability of the Plan. Because Chambers Plan is a not-for-profit, all surpluses are rolled back into the Plan. You might be wondering what this means.

When firms buy insurance, they are putting money into a premium pool with many other firms to help participants should they suDer a loss or expense covered by the policy. Most policies are annual contracts, with premiums based on informed predictions about how much money will be needed to pay future claims. At the end of the policy term, it is hoped that enough premiums were collected from all participants to cover the claims incurred.

Insurance companies will use this claims experience each year to help predict how much money they will need to pay the upcoming year’s claims and set premiums accordingly. Any surpluses or deficits belong to the insurance company, as they are assuming the risk. So, if there are deficits, the insurer absorbs the loss and will use this information to set rates for the upcoming year. This can sometimes result in a significant increase in rates for a firm. If there are surpluses, these funds are typically kept by the insurance company.

This is where the Chambers Plan is diDerent. Your premium dollars are working for you, not the insurance company.

Surpluses in Chambers Plan do not go to the insurance company but are used in determining the premiums for the upcoming year, which means more reasonable renewals for everyone. Chambers Plan has had an average annual renewal increase of 4.4% over the last five years and only 4.0% over the last decade, and that’s a direct result of its not-for-profit strategy keeping your premiums in check.

Today, Chambers Plan is Canada’s #1 group benefits plan for businesses with 1 to 50 employees. More than 33,000 small to medium-sized businesses belong to Chambers Plan for its benefits, simplicity and stable rates.

Suchorab and Associates is proud to be the exclusive Chambers Plan advisor for the Prince Albert and District Chamber of Commerce and would welcome the opportunity to assist you with your benefits plan.

Phone: 306.922.4414 suchorab@chamberbenefits.ca

Thank you to our 2025 sponsors

Chamber events

2025

Uncork & Unwind –Third Thursday of the month (September to May)

Annual Chamber Member Appreciation BBQ –August 14

Chief of Police Luncheon –September 2025

Duffer Classic

2026

Mayor’s State of The City Address –February 2026

Legacy Brunch –March 2026

Minister of Finance Budget Luncheon –March 2026

Samuel McLeod Business Awards –April 10, 2026

Chamber of Commerce Duffer Classic –June 4, 2026

ChamberHQ: A new hub for business collaboration

On May 29 2024, ChamberHQ officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone for the local business community. Designed as a dynamic space where professionals can connect, collaborate, and innovate, ChamberHQ embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and economic growth.

A HOME FOR BUSINESS LEADERSHIP

ChamberHQ proudly serves as the headquarters for the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce, as well as Prince Albert Community Futures. This strategic partnership provides a strong foundation for business support and development in Prince Albert. With the Chamber fostering advocacy, networking, and resources for local enterprises, and Community Futures offering business support services, ChamberHQ is truly a hub for growth and success.

GRAND OPENING HIGHLIGHTS

The grand opening event was a celebration of business and community. Attendees included local entrepreneurs, business leaders, and representatives from various industries. The event featured keynote speeches from Elder Priscella Joseph, Board Chair Kelly Disiewich, Chamber CEO Patty Hughes, Mayor Greg Dionne, and

Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce CEO Prahba Ramaswamy who highlighted the importance of collaboration in today’s business landscape.

LOOKING AHEAD

With its doors now open, ChamberHQ is set to become a cornerstone for business development. Through the combined efforts of the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce and Prince Albert Community Futures, local businesses will have access to invaluable mentorship, networking opportunities, and strategic partnerships.

ChamberHQ stands as a beacon for innovation and economic prosperity, ensuring that businesses—both new and established—have the support they need to succeed. As it embarks on this exciting journey, the Prince Albert business community eagerly anticipates the opportunities and connections that will emerge from this vibrant new space.

Northern Lights Casino launches $30-million expansion in Prince Albert

Major upgrade adds space, cultural design, and new amenities while deepening community support.

The Northern Lights Casino in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, has embarked on a transformative $30 million expansion, marking a significant milestone in its nearly three-decade history. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA), aims to enhance the casino’s facilities, bolster its role as a regional tourism hub, and deepen its community impact.

A STRATEGIC EXPANSION

Announced in August 2024, the expansion is adding 31,000 square feet to the existing 42,000-squarefoot facility, effectively doubling its size. Construction is expected to conclude by 2026. The project will unfold in phases to ensure

the casino remains operational throughout the renovation period. Phase one involves creating a temporary entrance and relocating the kitchen and restaurant, followed by interior enhancements, including an expanded smoking room and gaming floor. The final phase will focus on administrative offices and storage spaces.

ENHANCING THE GUEST EXPERIENCE

The expansion will introduce a high-limits slot area, a larger smoking room, and upgraded food and beverage facilities, including a new combined deli and floor bar area. The kitchen and restaurant will see significant growth, with the kitchen nearly tripling in size. These

enhancements aim to provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for the approximately 30,000 monthly visitors.

CULTURAL INTEGRATION AND DESIGN

Situated on the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, the Northern Lights Casino’s expansion will reflect Indigenous cultural elements. The design will incorporate themes inspired by the natural phenomenon of the northern lights, aligning with SIGA’s commitment to First Nations hospitality. Architect Jason Hurd from aodbt, the firm behind the design, emphasized the importance of integrating Indigenous motifs into the building’s exterior and interior.

ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

As a non-profit organization, SIGA redistributes all net revenue generated by its casinos. Fifty per cent goes to the First Nations Trust, benefiting 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan; 25 per cent is allocated to Community Development Corporations (CDCs) for local initiatives; and the remaining 25 per cent contributes to the provincial General Revenue Fund.

The Northern Lights Community Development Corporation (NLCDC), established by the Prince Albert Grand Council, manages the 25 per cent allocated to CDCs. NLCDC invests in charitable purposes

within its catchment area, which includes various First Nations and municipalities.

The Northern Lights Casino has a longstanding role in supporting local events and organizations. Recent contributions include support for the Tony Cote First Nations Summer Games, the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup, the PAGC Fine Arts Festival, and a $25,000 donation to the Prince Albert Food Bank.

ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES

In addition to physical expansions, the casino is embracing sustainability by installing Level 2 and Level 3 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. This initiative,

part of SaskPower’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program, aims to enhance EV connectivity in the province and aligns with SIGA’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

LOOKING AHEAD

The expansion of Northern Lights Casino represents a significant investment in the region’s economic and cultural landscape. By enhancing its facilities and services, the casino aims to attract more visitors, provide better amenities, and continue its tradition of community support. As construction progresses, the casino will remain open, ensuring that patrons can continue to enjoy its offerings while looking forward to the enhanced experience that awaits.

For more information and updates on the expansion, visit northernlightscasino.ca.

A message from the Mayor of the City of Prince Albert BILL POWALINSKY

Dear Members of the Prince Albert Business Community

On behalf of the City of Prince Albert, I would like to extend congratulations to the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce for the inaugural edition of their Chamber magazine. This publication will provide a new platform to celebrate local enterprise and share ideas throughout the business community.

The vision for the City of Prince Albert is to be an innovative, welcoming, diverse, and healthy City of opportunity. Looking ahead, we see a lot of exciting opportunities that will contribute to our region’s prosperous future:

• The ongoing construction of the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital expansion continues to be an exciting project for our community. This longanticipated project will not only enhance health services across northern Saskatchewan, but also create new jobs, attract professionals to our region, and stimulate local economic activity during and after construction.

• The Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre is now 99% complete, with the rink facilities available for ice bookings and the aquatics programming rolling out in phases. This state-of-the-art facility is going to make Prince Albert a particularly ideal host for regional swimming competitions and hockey tournaments.

Aside from the large-scale projects that are happening in Prince Albert, the city is also focused on creating a supportive environment for our business community. We are reevaluating licensing and permitting processes and investing in the

systems that support business growth and economic development. We are currently undertaking a comprehensive review of our Business Licensing Bylaw and related processes. The goal is simple: to streamline, modernize, and make it easier for new and existing businesses to navigate licensing and permit requirements.

Our commitment to economic development also includes building strong regional and provincial partnerships. The City of Prince Albert is actively engaged with the Saskatchewan Economic Development Alliance (SEDA), particularly in utilizing their Saskatchewan Investment Readiness Indicators (SIRI) framework. This partnership will help us better understand our investment strengths and identify areas where we can enhance our community’s appeal to investors and developers. Working with SEDA ensures that our efforts are data-driven, strategic, and aligned with best practices across the province.

As Prince Albert grows, we recognize the importance of working collaboratively—with the Chamber, with local businesses, with our residents and our surrounding regional partners—to shape a community that is welcoming, competitive, and resilient. Thank you to the Chamber of Commerce for your ongoing advocacy and dedication to local business. As we continue to build and invest in Prince Albert’s future, we do so with great optimism.

Mayor Bill Powalinsky

A new era of recreation in Prince Albert

The Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre, a cornerstone of Prince Albert’s ambitious The Yard Entertainment District development, is poised to transform the city’s recreational and economic landscape. Slated for a grand opening in spring 2025, this stateof-the-art facility epitomizes

community collaboration, forwardthinking urban planning, and a commitment to enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

A VISION REALIZED: THE YARD DISTRICT

Situated on 25 acres at the southeast intersection of Marquis Road and

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6th Avenue East, the Leisure Centre anchors The Yard—an 80-acre mixed-use district developed by Signature Developments. Envisioned as a vibrant hub for business, entertainment, dining, and retail, The Yard aims to be a point of pride for northern Saskatchewan, fostering economic growth and community engagement.

FACILITY HIGHLIGHTS

The Leisure Centre offers a comprehensive array of amenities designed to cater to diverse interests and age groups. Key features include:

• A 51,000-square-foot aquatics area with a 25-metre competitive pool,

multiple diving boards, leisure and wave pools, lazy river, water slides, and whirlpool.

• Twin arenas covering 77,159 square feet, offering larger ice surfaces, increased seating, and additional dressing rooms to accommodate various ice sports and events. These facilities are designed to support both recreational activities and competitive events, positioning Prince Albert as a regional destination for sports and leisure.

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT AND FUNDING

The realization of the Leisure Centre

is the result of strong community support and strategic funding initiatives. A significant milestone was achieved with a $10 million legacy donation from Lake Country Co-op, granting them naming rights for 25 years. This contribution catalyzed the “Play It Forward” campaign, aiming to raise an additional $10 million through community donations.

The project’s total cost escalated to $118 million due to inflationary pressures. To address this, the City of Prince Albert secured $24 million in federal funding and $19.9 million from the provincial government.

The remaining funds are covered through increased borrowing and

anticipated revenues from The Yard’s development, all without raising property taxes.

ENHANCED ACCESSIBILITY AND ECONOMIC IMPACT

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, the city expanded transit services to The Yard district, ensuring residents can easily reach the Leisure Centre and surrounding amenities. The development has also spurred economic growth, attracting businesses like McDonald’s, Firehouse Subs, and a Holiday Inn Express, further solidifying The Yard as a commercial and recreational nucleus.

The Twin Arenas: The North Rink has 510 seats and 12 wheelchair spaces, with standing room for 90 spectators. The South Rink has 264 seats and seven wheelchair spaces, with standing room for 90 spectators.

The project’s total cost escalated to $118 million due to inflationary pressures. To address this, the City of Prince Albert secured $24 million in federal funding and $19.9 million from the provincial government.

BUILDING THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Graham Construction has been instrumental in bringing Prince Albert’s Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre to fruition. Graham Construction has led the project in collaboration with AECOM and architectural firms Group2 and MJMA, aiming to deliver a premier recreational facility for the community.

Graham Construction’s expertise and commitment have been pivotal in advancing this landmark project, reflecting a collaborative effort to enrich Prince Albert’s community infrastructure.

Building a healthier future: The Prince Albert Victoria Hospital expansion

Prince Albert and the surrounding region are on the cusp of a major transformation in healthcare delivery with the redevelopment of the Victoria Hospital. Spearheading the project as general contractor is PCL Construction, a company with deep expertise in large-scale healthcare builds. Supporting the project’s vision and community connection is the Boreal Healthcare Foundation, whose advocacy and fundraising efforts highlight just how critical this new facility is for the entire region.

The expanded Prince Albert Victoria Hospital is not just an investment in infrastructure — it’s an investment in people. The new design will increase the existing hospital’s capacity, allowing for 242 inpatient beds (up from 173), enhanced surgical suites, a larger emergency

department, intensive care unit, diagnostic cardiology, modernized maternity and pediatric care services, and northern Saskatchewan’s first MRI. The hospital’s mental health wing will also expand from 29 to 43 beds, with four designated specifically for older youth.

The newly expanded Malhotra Neonatal Intensive Care Unit will be included in the upgraded facility. Significant renovations are also planned for the main entrance and lobby, as well as the cancer care systemic therapy and ambulatory care areas.

For many residents in northern and central Saskatchewan, the hospital is their first and often only point of access to critical medical services.

Rendering provided by aodbt architecture + interior design.

BUILDING THE FUTURE OF PRINCE ALBERT SASKATCHEWAN

| Prince Albert Victoria Hospital Project, coming 2029

PCL is proud to play a role in building world-class healthcare infrastructure for the Prince Albert region.

As industry leaders, we model the highest standards of corporate social responsibility with uncompromising commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and innovation. We do this in collaboration with our clients, partners, and communities to build a better future, together.

At the heart of the project’s community outreach
the Boreal

PCL Construction brings a collaborative approach to the project, engaging local trades and suppliers whenever possible to ensure the economic benefits ripple through the community.

At the heart of the project’s community outreach is the Boreal Healthcare Foundation. The Foundation has been instrumental in rallying public support, highlighting the need for advanced medical technology, patientcentered spaces, and culturally appropriate care for the region’s Indigenous communities. The Foundation’s leaders emphasized that this project is about more than expansion — it’s about creating a healing environment that reflects the diverse population it serves.

Community input has played a crucial role in shaping the hospital’s design. From better mental health facilities to improved spaces for families and caregivers, the project aims to create a welcoming environment that respects the needs of all patients. Plans include private patient rooms, enhanced infection control measures, and

technology integration to support both in-person and virtual care delivery.

Local First Nations communities, represented by the Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC), have been actively involved in the facility’s design from the beginning. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping key elements, including the front entrance, which will feature a dedicated cultural space for First Nations and Métis patients and families.

The project is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs over the coming years and, once completed, hundreds of new healthcare positions as well. Local leaders say the hospital expansion will also make Prince Albert more attractive to healthcare professionals, improving the region’s ability to recruit and retain muchneeded doctors, nurses, and specialists.

As construction progresses, the excitement across the community is palpable. The new Prince Albert Victoria Hospital symbolizes hope, resilience, and the shared vision of a healthier future.

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