The Prescott-Russell Residence has begun a new chapter, as the virtual groundbreaking ceremony took place this past Tuesday, March 23rd. Stéphane Parisien, Chief of Administrative of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR), spoke with TVC22 journalist Bruce de la Cruz, about the new changes coming to the residence.

Parisien explains that the groundbreaking ceremony went well, despite it taking place over zoom.

The core reason the building needs to be replaced is that it is no longer up to date with current Ministry of Health and Long Term Care standards. 

New features to improve the quality of care will be new equipment, better air ventilation, and a building layout that will decrease travelling times for nurses and other staff, allowing them to service more residents in a more timely manner. 

Parisien describes the new building as being more of a home than an institution. To accomplish this there is a central outdoor courtyard to allow residents to meet with their family and friends, many glass windows have been added to allow natural light inside the building, including many other amenities and activities to make residents feel included.

Parisien and the 200+ staff are dedicated in making the residents as comfortable as possible during their stay.

The new building is being constructed just down the road from the old residence on Spence Avenue. Parisien elaborates that the location puts them in close proximity with the other emergency buildings in the area, mainly the hospital and fire station. This will allow emergency services to arrive much quicker if need be.

The construction process is going well, but there have been some delays due to the weather, and COVID-19 restrictions. 

Parisen hopes that they will be able to start moving residents to the new building by 2024, and is optimistic for the future, as well as the new possibilities this project opens up.