Residents at Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home now have one of the best views in Cranbrook.

As construction progresses on the new long-term care home, Bird Construction has created a dedicated viewing window overlooking the build site, giving residents a safe and comfortable place to watch the work unfold right from their current home.

“The viewing area has quickly become a popular gathering spot,” said Katherine Murrell, Recreation Department Program Coordinator at Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home.

“Residents stop by throughout the day to check on progress, compare notes on what has changed since yesterday, and share in the excitement of seeing the future home take shape before their eyes.”

For some, it has brought out their inner Umarell.

Pronounced oo-mah-rell, the term comes from the Bolognese dialect in Italy and affectionately refers to retired older adults who enjoy watching construction projects, often standing with their hands clasped behind their backs while observing every detail of the work.

At Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home, residents have embraced the role with enthusiasm.

From watching excavation and concrete work to keeping an eye on heavy equipment moving around the site, the viewing window offers more than entertainment. It provides a meaningful connection to a project that will directly impact residents, families, staff, and the broader community for years to come.

The new Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home will more than double long-term care capacity in Cranbrook, increasing from 60 to 150 accommodations. Designed around a household model, the new home will feature private resident rooms, welcoming shared spaces and amenities that support quality of life and person-centered care.

The viewing window is a simple idea with a big impact. It helps residents stay engaged, sparks conversation, and creates opportunities to share stories and anticipation as construction moves forward.

A special thank you to Bird Construction for recognizing the importance of resident engagement and creating a space where residents can safely follow the construction progress of their future home. Sometimes the best way to build excitement is simply to provide a window into what’s next.

Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home, a 60-bed long-term care home in Cranbrook, is being replaced and expanded. A new five-storey building will be constructed on the same site at 1700 4 St. South, Cranbrook, adding 87 new long-term care beds and three hospice beds for a total of 150 beds.

Construction will take place in two phases. In Phase 1, space for the first 66 new beds will be built. Phase 1 is expected to open in 2027, allowing current residents to move into the new home.

Phase 2, which will include an additional 84 beds, is scheduled for completion in 2030. Phase 2 will include space for a child care facility, creating a vibrant, multi-generational hub for the community.

The provincial government is providing an estimated $148 million towards this project.

Lead image: With front-row seats now available, Cranbrook’s newest group of Umarells, Gordon (left) and Bob, will be keeping a close eye on the project every step of the way.  Interior Health photos

Interior Health

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