Construction kicks off on the new Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home

Shovels are in the ground! Construction officially started on the new Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home in Cranbrook, Sept. 11, 2025. This marks a big step forward in bringing more long-term care options to seniors and families in the East Kootenay.

The day began in a meaningful way, with a traditional blessing of the land by Ktunaxa Nation Council Elders Sophie Pierre and Irene Benallie, along with Nasuʔkin Cheryl Casimer of ʔaq̓am and Nasuʔkin Jason Louie of Yaqan Nukiy. Their guidance and words reminded us that this project is about more than a building—it’s about people, connection, and community.

The ceremony and event was also attended by Interior Health leadership and our partners at the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District, City of Cranbrook, Zeidler Architecture and Bird Construction.

“This new home will mean more seniors can stay close to their loved ones, receive the care they need, and live with dignity in a safe and welcoming environment. Residents and their families will enjoy a modernized health-care environment where they are supported by compassionate teams in a space that honours connection, culture and community.”
~ Sylvia Weir, interim president and CEO, Interior Health.

When it’s finished, the new Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home will more than double current capacity—growing from 60 to 150 long-term care beds, including three hospice beds. The design focuses on smaller, household-style living spaces, so each resident will have a private room and washroom, plus access to cozy shared spaces and the outdoors. Families and residents can also look forward to spaces like a sacred room, hair salon, activity areas, and an adult day program.

What’s next

Bird Construction crews will begin setting up the site and preparing for excavation. Construction will take place in two phases. In Phase 1, space for the first 66 new beds will be built. Phase 1 is expected to open in 2027, allowing current residents to move into the new home. Phase 2, which will include an additional 84 beds, is scheduled for completion in 2030. Phase 2 will include space for a child care facility, creating a vibrant, multi-generational hub for the community.

We’re excited to share more updates as construction moves ahead. Thank you for everything you do each day to support the people we serve.

Read the full news release to learn more.

Breaking ground at Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home, Sept. 11, 2025 (L-R): Dr. Greg Andreas, rural general practitioner, palliative care and end-of-life; Nasuʔkin Jason Louie of Yaqan Nukiy; Greg Madziong, vice president, Bird Construction; Elder Irene Benallie, Ktunaxa Nation Council; Elder Sophie Pierre, Ktunaxa Nation Council; David Wilks, Board Chair, Kootenay East Regional Hospital District; Sylvia Weir, interim president and CEO, IH; Nasuʔkin Cheryl Casimer of ʔaq̓am; Jared Basil, cultural safety framework ambassador, Ktunaxa Nation Council.