The enhancement project that began at St. Paul’s Hospital in December 2023 is now complete, with over 14,000 square feet of renovations to show for it. 

At first glance, patients and visitors will notice a brand-new front entrance, with extended sightlines for added safety, two outdoor healing gardens, increased lighting, and a covered drop-off zone. Inside, there are additional washrooms, a new gift shop, relocated security and information desks, and a Metis and First Nations Healing Centre. 

St. Paul’s Hospital Executive Director Carrie Dornstauder says these upgrades represent more than just a new front door.  

“It reflects our shared commitment to St. Paul’s Hospital and to holistic healing, connecting people to care, to the land, to spiritual care, and to the community.”

The Healing Centre was titled Kikâwînaw wîki, meaning ‘Out Mother’s Home’ in Plains Cree. 

St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation CEO Lecina Hicke says the renovation increases safety, accessibility, and the public’s first impression of the hospital. 

“We acknowledge that this community has significant and specific needs, and so the design of the physical space itself as well as the programming that St. Paul’s Hospital and Foundation are investing in, are intended to acknowledge the unique needs of this community.”

The total project cost was around $18 million, coming in slightly over budget due to “cost pressures”. The government has invested $14 million toward the project, paired with contributions of $3.775 million from St. Paul’s Hospital of Saskatoon and $600,000 from the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation. The doors will officially open to the public Thursday. 

Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill says the renovation pairs nicely with the recent rollout of metal detectors at the hospital’s emergency room.