News release

Residents to Review Access Road Alternative

Justice

An alternative access road has been identified for the new correctional centre and forensic psychiatric hospital in Bedford.

The proposed new route follows an existing road at the water line near the intersection of Hammonds Plains Road and Highway 102. Area residents are invited to an information session early next week to discuss the proposed route.

"Local residents told us they have concerns about the access road previously proposed," said Justice Minister Robbie Harrison. "We have taken their concerns seriously and have identified an alternative route."

Staff will present the alternative route to residents on Tuesday, May 4, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Sandy Lake Academy, 35 Killarney Dr., Bedford. An additional information session on the facilities will be held Monday, May 10, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Basinview Elementary School, 273 Basinview Dr., Bedford. Residents are invited to ask questions, express concerns and learn more about the facilities, as they did in three previous public meetings held in the community.

Similar sessions will be held monthly and information flyers will be sent regularly to residents of the area. Information will also soon be available in area malls. In addition, a community advisory group has been formed to bring the concerns of residents forward.

Overcrowding and outdated facilities have increased the need for the new correctional centre and forensic psychiatric hospital. Building the two on the same site means opportunities to increase security and provide better programs and services to patients and offenders. As well, the two buildings will share infrastructure such as laundry and heating.

"Safety and security are paramount concerns," said Health Minister Jim Smith. "These are state-of-the-art facilities that will increase safety and security for offenders, patients, staff and the public, while enhancing treatment and rehabilitation opportunities for patients."

The facilities will be about 1.6 kilometres west of the Department of National Defence's rifle range in Bedford. About 40.5 hectares (100 acres) will be needed for the facilities; another 325 hectares (about 800 acres) will be designated as parkland. The project committee, with assistance from the community advisory group, will seek input from the community on future uses of the remaining land.