A new assisted living and personal care development is moving ahead in Gimli, with construction expected to begin in 2026 on a long-anticipated project aimed at addressing growing demand for seniors housing in the Interlake.
The development, to be located at 16 Centennial Rd., will be built in phases and is designed to provide a full continuum of care, allowing residents to remain in their community as their needs evolve.
The project includes two planned buildings — a 66-unit assisted living facility in Phase 1 and a 66-unit personal care home in Phase 2. The two buildings will eventually be connected by a walkway, creating an integrated campus-style environment for seniors care.
Planning for the development has been underway for several years, with the concept first emerging following a provincial call for tenders in 2017 aimed at expanding seniors housing options.
“Regional demand is strong,” said Donald Benson, president of the development group. “Hospitals are having patients occupy beds that should be in assisted living or personal care. This project will help relieve pressure on the acute care system.”
Benson added that many seniors in Gimli and the surrounding area are looking for options that allow them to remain close to home.
“People want to stay in their own community, near family and familiar surroundings, and this project will meet that need,” he said.
Construction of the assisted living facility is expected to begin in September 2026, with completion targeted for 2027. The project has received all necessary municipal approvals, with remaining steps including final design work, permitting and financing.
The assisted living building will offer a mix of one- and two-bedroom suites designed to support aging in place, allowing residents to maintain independence while accessing additional supports as needed. Shared spaces, programming areas and outdoor features are planned to enhance both comfort and quality of life.
Daily living within the facility will include meal services and organized programming aimed at keeping residents active and engaged.
“Residents will have access to daily meals as well as recreation programming that supports both physical and social well-being,” Benson said. “It’s about creating a community where people can stay active, connected and supported while maintaining their independence.”
Common dining areas and gathering spaces are expected to play a central role in fostering that sense of community, offering opportunities for social interaction and reducing isolation — an important factor in overall health and well-being for older adults.
Care within the assisted living facility will be tailored to individual needs, with staff on duty at all times, including overnight. Approximately 20 staff are expected to be employed in the first phase, with developers aiming to hire locally wherever possible.
“We’re committed to hiring locally where we can,” Benson said. “We’re also looking at whether training opportunities, such as those previously offered in Arborg, could be re-established to support staffing.”
The second phase of the project will see the construction of a personal care home, expected to be completed in 2028. The facility will provide a higher level of care, allowing residents to transition seamlessly as their needs increase.
Priority placement in the personal care home will be given to those already living in the assisted living facility, helping to eliminate the need for disruptive moves to other communities.
“This model gives families peace of mind,” Benson said. “Residents can remain in a familiar environment with continuity of care as their needs change.”
Developers say the project is also expected to bring economic benefits to Gimli, particularly during construction, with opportunities for local trades and increased activity for nearby businesses.
Pricing will vary depending on unit type and level of care required. While the assisted living facility will primarily operate on a private-pay model, some supports may be covered through regional health services for residents with additional needs.
Safety and modern design are key priorities for the development, according to project architect Arsenio Pagunuran.
“Safety will be a key factor in every aspect of the design, including advanced air handling systems,” Pagunuran said. “When fully operational, the assisted living facility and personal care home will be among the newest in Gimli.”
An open house is being planned for May, where residents and families will be able to review plans, explore suite layouts and learn more about costs and services. Those interested in attending are asked to text their name and number of participants to 204-955-5042. Additional details will be shared with registered attendees.
