BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) is looking to create an ambulance facility in the former Prince George Greyhound bus station.
Chief Ambulance Officer Leanne Heppell sent a letter to Mayor Simon Yu requesting the city’s support for the project.
“Funded through the Provincial Health Services Authority by the Ministry of Health, this $14.7M project is more than just renovations to a former Prince George Greyhound bus station, it is the creation of a BC Emergency Health Services Multi-Purpose Ambulance Facility (MPAF),” writes Heppell.
She said the facility will bring improved emergency medical services to both Prince George and the surrounding communities by improving readiness and response, while also increasing supports for BCEHS employees and supervisors.
“Not only will the creation of the MPAF help revitalize the Parkwood area but it will also create both immediate and ancillary jobs in the community,” she wrote.
The facility would allow for storage, cleaning and stocking of all ambulances in the Prince George area and significant staff supports, including crew quarters, amenities, administrative space and importantly, training space.
“It will address current space pressures at our existing facilities, enable the deep cleaning of ambulances, the consolidation of business functions, and will reduce both medication spoilage and the operational impacts that come with vehicles being stored outdoors,” said Heppell.
“I believe that this proposed multi purpose ambulance facility has been in conversation for awhile and I am delighted to see some progress,” said Coun. Susan Scott when city council addressed the letter during the Monday council meeting.
She moved to write a letter of support, which was approved unanimously by council.
“This has been an ongoing conversation for some time. In the spring, I had a chance to meet with BCEHS and learn about some of their plans going forward and seeing this come forward as more of a coordinated plan, to see this come to fruition, is really exciting so looking forward to supporting this,” added Coun. Kyle Sampson.
