Building a Modern, Supportive Environment for Seniors:

Princeton Long-Term Care Centre

Pomerleau was awarded a construction management contract for the Princeton Long-Term Care Centre in Spryfield, Nova Scotia. A state-of-the art facility that includes 124 beds over three storeys, Princeton will offer complete services for seniors. This project is part of the provincial government’s commitment to invest in new long-term care beds and facilities over the next several years. 

Transforming a Former School Site into a New Community Asset 

The new facility is being constructed on the former site of a school, which required full demolition except for the foundation. Once excavation began, the team discovered that the existing foundations were significantly deeper than expected, prompting rapid adaptation and meticulous coordination to maintain the project schedule. 

Innovative Construction Approaches and Technical Solutions 

A Major Geological Challenge 

Excavation revealed layers of pyritic slate, a naturally occurring material that becomes environmentally hazardous once exposed to air and water. This required deeper excavation and specialized disposal in compliance with environmental regulations. Although pyritic slate is common in Nova Scotia, particularly in the Halifax Regional Municipality, it presents significant schedule risks due to the urgency required in its removal. Thanks to disciplined planning and execution, the Princeton project avoided delays despite the complexity of this geological condition. 

Advanced BIM Coordination 

Building on lessons learned from the Roger Bacon Long-Term Care Centre project, the team is leveraging BIM coordination to detect and resolve clashes before mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems arrive on site. This proactive approach streamlines installation, reduces rework and supports a predictable construction schedule. 

Digital Tools That Enhance Project Delivery 

Tools such as OpenSpace and Procore are being used to review conditions and workflows from the Roger Bacon Long-Term Care Centre project and apply relevant insights to Princeton. These technologies help the team validate design assumptions, optimize logistics and ensure a continuously informed decision-making process. 

Specialized Expertise in Infection Control 

Drawing from extensive experience in healthcare projects, Pomerleau brings significant know-how in installing infection-control equipment, an essential component in modern long-term care environments. 

Additionally, deep BIM expertise has supported the development of a robust site logistics plan tailored to the project’s spatial constraints and operational needs. 

Environmental Commitments That Protect the Community 

With residential housing close to the site, vibration monitoring was carried out throughout blasting operations to ensure safety and community comfort. Furthermore, Pomerleau expanded its standard environmental framework to include protocols for the handling and disposal of pyritic slate, along with the rebar and concrete contained in the existing foundation. This reinforced plan helps protect local ecosystems and supports compliance with stringent environmental standards. 

Pomerleau’s Commitment to the Spryfield Community 

Pomerleau is proud to support the growth and well‑being of the Spryfield community through the construction of the Princeton Long‑Term Care Centre. By contributing to essential infrastructure that enhances access to high‑quality senior care in the Halifax Regional Municipality, our team is honoured to help create a safer, more supportive environment for local residents. This project reflects our long‑standing commitment to building meaningful, lasting assets that strengthen communities across Nova Scotia, ensuring that families in Spryfield have access to the care and services they deserve.