It has been a key wish list item for a very long time for Prince Albert, and now the provincial government has given a clear indication of the scope and the price tag for a new hospital for the city and the growing north.

At a media event at the Victoria Hospital on Friday morning, the government said it had earmarked more than $300 million for a multi-storey addition.

.@PremierScottMoe has made it official, the @SKGov is committing $300 million to cover capital costs for what he called a new and expanded Victoria Hospital. pic.twitter.com/3YBv6nFV93 — paNOW (@princealbertnow) March 6, 2020

The expansion will include a new acute care tower and replacement of an existing adult mental health space. General renovations to the current building will include a larger emergency department, a helipad, and enhanced medical imaging services, including an MRI.

Premier Scott Moe said the project, the capital cost of which is funded 100 per cent by the province, will greatly improve access and expanded health services for northern Saskatchewan.

“We are moving forward to address the health care needs of our growing population in Prince Albert and the north,” he said.

The renovation will increase bed numbers by 40 per cent, from 173 to 242 beds on opening day. Further space will be added to add more beds as needed.

With the provincial funding for the expansion in place, it will be up to the local community and Victoria Hospital Foundation to fundraise for furniture and equipment.

A hospital expansion was one of the top priorities for Mayor Greg Dionne, who often spoke of the community’s need with his provincial counterparts.

“Prince Albert is a major hub of essential health care services for the North Central region of Saskatchewan,” he said. “Victoria Hospital is an aging facility. We welcome new funds that will improve our capacity to respond to the health care needs of our residents.”

Prince Albert Ground Council Chief Brian Hardlotte echoed Dionne’s sentiments.

“The 12 First Nations of the PAGC look forward to a hospital that will be comfortable, culturally inviting and culturally responsive to the needs of all First Nation membership and communities,” he said.

Crown Investments Minister and Prince Albert Carlton MLA Joe Hargrave said there is a commitment to “working with Indigenous partners to make sure that culturally appropriate services and spaces are part of this project.”

While the project is in its very early stages, detailed designs will be developed during its next phase in consultation with partners, the release stated.

On Wednesday, Minister of Health Jim Reiter said that a tender was out for advisory procurement services for the new hospital.