The Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) has secured a $12.5 million planning grant from the Ontario government to move forward with the next phase of its hospital redevelopment project—marking a major step toward modernizing local healthcare infrastructure.
The provincial investment will support detailed planning for a new acute care tower and a non-acute ambulatory care facility on a future greenfield site. The project is aimed at addressing aging infrastructure and capacity issues at both Brantford General Hospital and The Willett in Paris.
“This is a significant milestone for our organization and our community,” said BCHS President and CEO Bonnie Camm. “With this funding, we can begin planning patient-centered facilities that meet the growing and evolving healthcare needs of Brantford, Brant County, Six Nations of the Grand River, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, and surrounding communities.”
The grant is part of a broader $103 million provincial package announced to support 50 hospital planning projects across Ontario. It falls under the government’s larger $56 billion commitment to health infrastructure over the next decade.
Dave Diegel, Chair of the BCHS Board of Directors, called the announcement “the result of years of collaboration, vision, and commitment” from hospital leadership and community partners. “We are proud to be part of a provincial plan that prioritizes access to high-quality healthcare,” he said.
The proposed hospital expansion aims to improve patient flow, increase service capacity, and enhance the care experience. BCHS officials say the next planning phase will include wide-ranging consultations with clinical staff, patients, families, and the broader community.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine healthcare delivery in our region,” said Paul Emerson, Chair of the Redevelopment & Properties Committee. “We look forward to engaging the public to ensure the project reflects local needs and values.”
BCHS thanked MPP Will Bouma and the Ontario government for their support, and acknowledged the ongoing role of community advocacy and engagement.
For more information on the project or to get involved, visit www.reimaginebchs.ca. Donations can be made at www.bchsysfoundation.org.
