Island Community Mental Health embarked on a redevelopment of their McCauley Lodge property in the Esquimalt municipality in BC’s Capital Region, in early 2012. This redevelopment project included the demolition of an existing 22-unit group home, the recycling of an adjoining residence, and the construction of a new three-storey non-combustible building on the combined and rezoned properties. CitySpaces carried out the project management. The new McCauley Lodge now accommodates 30 residents and continues its outreach support services to clients who live in the surrounding community. The accommodation is organized into three clusters of ten people per floor. Resident profiles are similar to the former McCauley Lodge population including long-term residents, those aging in place, a few requiring increased support services, and others that will be more independent, with potential to transition back into an independent living environment. A base level of services for all residents includes three meals plus snacks each day and medication monitoring/ administering seven days a week. Other support services, depending on individual capabilities, include assistance with laundry, clothing, personal hygiene, grooming, recreational activities, and daily outings.
McCauley Lodge is located in a residential neighbourhood in Esquimalt, within easy walking distance of commercial, civic and social services on the Esquimalt Road corridor. The municipal hall, library, recreation centre and health unit are all located within three to four blocks. Building massing, design and site development was carried out to be complementary to the existing residential character of the neighbourhood. The building is fully accessible for wheel chairs and other mobility aids. The resident rooms each contain a clothes closet, personal locking cabinet, and a single bed. The new McCauley Lodge has a total floor area of approximately 1,424 m2 (15,328 s.f.), allocated over three floors, with outdoor amenity space, and parking on site.
The new building was made possible by the generous support of: Island Health, United Way of Greater Victoria, Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation, and our many capital contribution supporters.