By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
Years of work promoting the idea, getting buy-in from the relevant parties, official approvals, financial commitments and ultimately physical construction will culminate on Friday, April 24 with the official ribbon cutting ceremony opening the Eastside Avenue Housing for Healthcare Workers in Oliver.
Members of the community are encouraged to attend and help celebrate the important milestone, the Town invited. The event will feature brief remarks, the ribbon cutting, followed by refreshments.
“The project represents a meaningful investment in strengthening local healthcare services by helping attract and retain essential medical personnel,” the Town of Oliver said.
The ceremony marks the completion of two new modular housing units designed by Chaparral Industries to support visiting and transitional healthcare workers serving the South Okanagan General Hospital and surrounding communities.
The two units will provide a comfortable and convenient place to stay for healthcare professionals in need of short-term accommodations, according to the town. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the completed homes, learn more about the project and enjoy some light refreshments. Community members are encouraged to attend and help celebrate this important milestone.
When fully completed the units will have landscaping and outdoor furniture.
Oliver Mayor Martin Johansen – the key driver of the initiative – along with members of Oliver Town Council, and representatives from partner organizations will be in attendance.
The Town of Oliver thanked the many contributors who helped bring the project to fruition, including the Province of British Columbia, FortisBC, Interior Health, the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation, the Okanagan-Similkameen Regional Hospital District, and the Regional District of the Okanagan-Similkameen. The Town also recognizes the support and endorsement of the Osoyoos Indian Band.
The Town of Oliver also acknowledged the dedication and collaboration of the Town’s Corporate Services, Public Works, Finance, Development Services, and Recreation departments.
“Their collective efforts in sourcing the housing units, preparing the site, managing sub-trades, and coordinating the purchase of appliances, furnishings, and household supplies were essential in creating welcoming and comfortable homes for our healthcare professionals.”
The event will take place at 710 Eastside Avenue in Oliver on Friday, April 24 at 2 p.m.
