The Ontario government is committing up to $500,000 to support early planning for the redevelopment and renovation of Geraldton District Hospital, a move aimed at improving access to health-care services for residents of Greenstone and surrounding northern communities.
The funding will allow the hospital to undertake planning work to modernize and reconfigure approximately 9,300 square feet on its first floor, enabling the expansion of programs and services to better meet local needs. The investment forms part of the province’s broader strategy to strengthen Ontario’s health-care system through nearly $60 billion in spending on more than 50 major hospital projects over the next decade .
“Our government is making historic investments to protect Ontario’s health-care system and connect more people in Greenstone and communities across Northwestern Ontario to the care they need, where and when they need it,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “By investing in the redevelopment of Geraldton District Hospital, we are making it faster and easier for more people and their families to access world-class hospital care in their community, for generations to come.”
The Geraldton project remains in the early planning stage, with the Ministry of Health working alongside the hospital to determine programming, operational requirements, and space needs. Once planning is finalized and the project is tendered and awarded, a construction schedule will be established.
Hospital officials say the redevelopment would improve patient flow and service delivery while reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for care. Among the upgrades being considered are a new dedicated entrance for outpatient services, expanded diagnostic capacity through a CT program, and the introduction of a telemedicine suite to support patients who do not require in-hospital care. The planning also includes measures to strengthen infection prevention and control by separating acute and ambulatory programs.
Currently, patients in the region often travel to Thunder Bay to access CT diagnostic services. A local CT program would significantly improve timely access to diagnostic imaging, particularly for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges.
Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay—Atikokan, said the investment recognizes the hospital’s importance to the region. “Geraldton District Hospital plays a vital role in supporting families across Greenstone and our Northern communities. This investment strengthens that foundation by helping the hospital plan for the services people rely on every day,” he said. “I am grateful for the dedicated staff and local partners who continue working to ensure residents have dependable, high-quality care close to home.”
Beyond health-care delivery, the redevelopment aligns with the province’s economic strategy for northern Ontario. Geraldton District Hospital sits at the gateway to the Ring of Fire, a region central to Ontario’s critical minerals strategy. The province has positioned health infrastructure investments as a way to support long-term economic growth while ensuring northern and First Nation communities benefit from development through sustainable partnerships.
Local leaders welcomed the announcement, emphasizing its significance for community well-being. “On behalf of the Municipality of Greenstone, I want to thank the Ontario government for this important investment in the future of health care in our region. The redevelopment of Geraldton District Hospital’s first floor is a vital step toward ensuring that families across Greenstone and our Northern communities have access to high-quality, modern care close to home. We are deeply grateful for the province’s partnership as we work together to build a stronger, healthier Greenstone for generations to come,” said Mayor Jamie McPherson.
Hospital leadership said the funding provides a critical foundation for future improvements. “We are thrilled to receive this significant investment from the Ontario government, which will enable us to enhance our facilities and services at Geraldton District Hospital. This redevelopment is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about ensuring the communities that we serve have access to high-quality, timely health care right here at home. We look forward to working closely with our partners to realize this vision for our families and future generations,” said Darryl Galusha, CEO of Geraldton District Hospital.
Eric Pietsch, chair of the hospital’s board of directors, added that the project will help address long-standing capacity challenges. “The redevelopment of Geraldton District Hospital is crucial for addressing the health-care needs of our community. This funding will allow us to expand essential programs and services, making health care more accessible and efficient. We appreciate the support from the government and are dedicated to collaborating with all stakeholders to create a healthier future for our community.”
Geraldton District Hospital serves approximately 5,700 residents across five communities and four First Nations. In addition to the planning funding, the hospital is slated to receive $519,000 in 2025–26 through the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund to support critical infrastructure needs, underscoring the province’s continued focus on strengthening health care in northern Ontario .
