use across the region. Each facility is designed for the digital age, with wired and wireless data infrastructure supporting advanced systems like Nurse Call, Real-Time Location Services (RTLS), and integrated security management— all ensuring safer, smarter care delivery. On the Northside, the upper floors of the building open onto balconies overlooking Sydney Harbour, blending functionality with restorative design for seniors in long-term care. In New Waterford, the community hub is an architectural example of community wellness to support the social determinants of health for future generations. Leanne Stone is an industrial engineer, P.Eng., who has more than 15 years of experience working in healthcare with Nova Scotia Health and the IWK Health Centre and has been with
The new Community Wellness Centre opened in March 2025 as part of the New Waterford Community Hub project. The project also includes a school, health centre, long-term care home and recreation fields. Photo: Nova Scotia Health the project since it was announced in 2018. Like Darrell, she works with architects, contractors and frontline staff to determine space requirements, furniture, equipment and other essential elements to help the new spaces function for patients and staff.
Leanne Stone, P.Eng., and Darrell MacKinnon, P.Eng., members of the CBRM Healthcare Redevelopment Team. Photo: Nova Scotia Health 15
“The project has been a unique opportunity to help bring the longterm vision for healthcare in Cape Breton to life, by working alongside staff, physicians and the community,” she explains. “Our staff and physicians provide excellent care, but they are sometimes limited by their working spaces. New technology and modern facilities provide new opportunities.” Construction is underway at three of the project sites. As the new facilities welcome patients in the coming years, the team will be opening and operationalizing over one million square feet in healthcare space. “The projects are a major investment in core community infrastructure, and their impacts will be felt for generations to come,” says Darrell. “It’s an exciting time for Cape Breton!” To learn more about the projects, visit Healthcare Infrastructure | Build Nova Scotia.