SHN Centenary ED Redevelopment: Expanding emergency care for a growing community

The Centenary Emergency Department (ED) Redevelopment is a priority project for Scarborough Health Network (SHN) and a key element of the organization’s strategic goals. The existing 14,300 SF ED is housed in a hospital wing constructed in 1985 and despite several renovations in select areas, most of the department retains its original layout. Overall, the condition and layout of the existing facility is not able to meet the evolving needs of the department, or the growing needs of the diverse community it serves. The Centenary ED is projected to grow from 68,200 current annual visits to 77,600 in 2026/27.

The current approved scope includes new construction, as well as renovation of existing space for a combined total of 58,200 SF. This will enable the ED to expand from its current 34 treatment spaces to 56; also included is relocation and growth of two adjacent clinics- Fracture and Cardiac Diagnostics. New construction comprises a one-storey expansion, a new mechanical penthouse, exit corridor and exit stair, and two new canopied driveways dedicated to walk-in patients and ambulance arrivals respectively. Site and landscape development includes reconfiguration of a portion of the main hospital ring road and adjacent parking lot areas to allow for the building expansion and to create pedestrian paths and vehicular roadways that meet current safety and accessibility standards.

Kasian’s engagement on this project began in 2020 as Prime Consultant, leading the Functional Program and Test-fit for the proposed redevelopment. This initial phase included a review of SHN’s approved Master Plan for ED growth. The Master Plan presented challenges related to clinical and operational flow, traffic and exiting. The test-fit developed by Kasian resolved these challenges, including a new proposed traffic plan, revised location of ED entrances, and revised location of the three departments involved, thus achieving better inter-departmental and overall hospital flow.